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How much do museum collection assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum collection assistant in California is $19.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $22.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Museum Collection Assistant?

As a Museum Collection Assistant, your daily tasks may include cataloging new acquisitions, updating and maintaining collection records, assisting with condition reports, and preparing objects for exhibition or storage. You may also help with packing and shipping objects, supporting inventory audits, and collaborating closely with curators, conservators, and registrars to ensure each item is handled appropriately. The role often involves a combination of behind-the-scenes work in storage areas as well as occasional public-facing duties during exhibitions or events. Being detail-oriented and organized is essential, as accuracy in documentation and care directly impacts the preservation of valuable artifacts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Museum Collection Assistant position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Museum Collection Assistant, you need a solid background in art history or museum studies, attention to detail, and experience in collections care or inventory management. Familiarity with collection management software (such as TMS or PastPerfect), as well as knowledge of proper object handling, documentation, and sometimes certification in collections care is valuable. Strong organizational skills, effective communication, and a collaborative approach are important soft skills. These qualifications ensure the safe preservation of collections, accurate record-keeping, and smooth coordination within museum teams.

What is a Museum Collection Assistant job?

A Museum Collection Assistant helps manage and preserve a museum's collection by cataloging, organizing, and maintaining artifacts. They assist with research, documentation, and storage to ensure items are properly cared for. Additionally, they may help with exhibition preparation and loan coordination. This role requires attention to detail, knowledge of preservation techniques, and familiarity with museum databases.

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What cities in California are hiring for Museum Collection Assistant jobs? Cities in California with the most Museum Collection Assistant job openings:
Museum Collection Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Collection Assistant job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,127 per year, or $19.8 per hour.
Collection Technician

Collection Technician

Petersen Automotive Museum

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

About Petersen Automotive Museum
We are more than just an iconic museum; we're a fast-paced, high-energy team driven by innovation, passion, and a deep love for car culture and storytelling. From world-class exhibitions to unforgettable events, we bring history, design, and horsepower to life every day.
At Petersen Automotive Museum, we work hard, move fast, and have a blast doing it, all while pushing the boundaries of what a museum can be. If you're ready to shift into high gear with a crew that values creativity, integrity, and a good laugh along the way, you'll fit right in.
About the Role
We are seeking a skilled and passionate Senior Automotive Technician to join our restoration and preservation team. This individual will be responsible for the mechanical restoration, maintenance, and repair of historic, rare, and significant vehicles in the museum's collection.
The ideal candidate is as comfortable working with pre-war classics as they are with modern supercars and understands the importance of historical accuracy in all aspects of vehicle care.
What You'll Do
  • Diagnostic & Maintenance: Diagnose, repair, and maintain a wide variety of vehicles, including vintage, classic, racing, and concept cars.
  • Preventive Care: Conduct routine inspections and preventive maintenance to ensure operational integrity.
  • Historical Restoration: Assist with historically accurate mechanical restorations, including engine rebuilds, drivetrain repairs, and component fabrication.
  • Curatorial Collaboration: Collaborate with curators and historians to ensure authenticity in restoration work and work within conservation guidelines to preserve vehicle originality.
  • Exhibitions & Events: Prepare vehicles for exhibitions, special events, and driving demonstrations, including assisting with loading/unloading and transport preparations.
  • Documentation: Maintain detailed service records, including condition reports and restoration documentation.

Who You Are
  • Detail-Oriented & Authentic: You value historical accuracy and care deeply about preserving the integrity and story of each unique vehicle.
  • A Collaborative Problem-Solver: You possess strong diagnostic skills and enjoy working alongside historians, curators, and fellow technicians.
  • Adaptable & Versatile: You feel at home across eras, moving comfortably between vintage engineering and modern automotive tech.
  • Self-Driven & Accountable: You work effectively both independently and as part of a team, taking ownership of documentation and long-term care plans.

What You Bring & Qualifications
  • Experience: 10+ years of experience in automotive repair, mechanical restoration, or equivalent technical training.
  • Technical Knowledge: Extensive knowledge of vintage and classic vehicle systems (electrical, fuel, ignition, etc.).
  • Diagnostic Skills: Strong diagnostic and troubleshooting capabilities across diverse automotive eras.
  • Fabrication Skills: Fabrication and machining experience is a plus (e.g., welding, lathe, milling).
  • Museum Practices: Familiarity with conservation practices in museum or collection settings is highly desirable.
  • Licensing: Valid driver's license (CDL or racing licenses a plus).

Why Join Us
  • Work with a collaborative, supportive team that values hard work and a bit of fun.
  • Thrive in a culture that celebrates accountability, curiosity, and kindness.
  • Make a meaningful impact, your voice and ideas are valued.
  • Enjoy competitive pay, benefits, professional development, and room to grow.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions
  • Environment: Primarily shop, garage, and display gallery environments. Involves active physical work around classic, vintage, and high-performance vehicles.
  • Physical Demands: Requires bending, lifting, reaching, and working on/under vehicles for extended periods.
  • Safety: Use of protective gear and adherence to shop safety protocols required.

The pay range for this role is:
25 - 30 USD per hour (Petersen Automotive Museum)

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