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Museum Collection Assistant Jobs in New Mexico (NOW HIRING)

... collection of artworks in New Mexico. Through the Museum Assistant Program, UNMAM aims to be a ... leader in establishing dynamic education and workforce training for the next generation of museum ...

Museum Collection Assistant information

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$9

$19

$29

How much do museum collection assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum collection assistant in New Mexico is $19.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a museum collection assistant?

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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Museum Collection jobs in New Mexico?

The most popular types of Museum Collection jobs in New Mexico are:

What are popular job titles related to Museum Collection Assistant jobs in New Mexico?

For Museum Collection Assistant jobs in New Mexico, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Museum Collection Assistant jobs in New Mexico look for?

The top searched job categories for Museum Collection Assistant jobs in New Mexico are:

What cities in New Mexico are hiring for Museum Collection Assistant jobs?

Cities in New Mexico with the most Museum Collection Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Museum Collection Assistant job openings in New Mexico as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Internship, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,384 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


University Of New Mexico rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

128th of 621 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Summary:

The University of New Mexico Art Museum (UNMAM) is dedicated to advanced learning and creating connections, both in and outside of the University community. As a teaching museum, we are committed to offering students professional development and mentorship opportunities as well as access to the largest collection of artworks in New Mexico. Through the Museum Assistant Program, UNMAM aims to be a leader in establishing dynamic education and workforce training for the next generation of museum leaders and creative professionals.

As a member of the UNMAM Museum Assistant Program, Museum Assistants work alongside professional museum staff to deliver a positive and informed visitor experience while furthering their knowledge of UNMAM's collections and exhibitions, developing their customer service skills and supporting the daily operations of an art museum. Students in this program will also participate in professional development and networking opportunities across New Mexico's museum sector.

A work-study award is required for this position. The ideal candidate should have weekend and occasional evening availability. This position is for the Fall and Spring semesters, with the possibility of renewal for future semesters. The UNM Art Museum is closed during the summer term, so employment during that period is not guaranteed.

Duties & Responsibilities:

This position will support the UNMAM's Museum Assistant Program by providing excellent customer service, assisting visitors, and supporting the museum's daily operations. Students will also develop transferable skills and explore other areas of museum work under UNMAM staff mentorship.

Visitor services duties include but are not limited to: assisting with opening and closing of the museum; greeting and assisting museum visitors; providing information and answering questions; processing sales; record-keeping and data-entry; performing walk-throughs and providing security presence in the galleries; assisting with behind-the-scenes operations; assisting with opening receptions and events; and providing support to UNMAM staff as need.

The ideal candidate would work approximately 10 - 15 hours per week during the UNMAM's public hours and commit to a two semester (Fall and Spring) term in this role, with the possibility of renewal for future semesters. The ideal candidate must be available during the museum's public hours: Tuesday -  Saturday, 10AM - 4PM, along with occasional later evenings.


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