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Museum Collection Assistant Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Sackler Museum-have been dedicated to advancing and supporting learning at Harvard University, in ... The diverse collection is among the largest in the United States. Through research, teaching ...

PUAM Program Assistant

Salem, MA ยท On-site

$25/hr

Building on that work, NSCDC launched Punto Urban Art Museum (PUAM) in 2017, which has grown into ... The collection reflects the vibrancy of the neighborhood and serves as a source of pride for ...

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Museum Collection Assistant information

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How much do museum collection assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum collection assistant in Boston, MA is $21.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.50 and $25.05 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Museum Collection jobs in Boston, MA? The most popular types of Museum Collection jobs in Boston, MA are:
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What job categories do people searching Museum Collection Assistant jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Museum Collection Assistant jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Museum Collection Assistant jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Museum Collection Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Museum Collection Assistant job openings in Boston, MA 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 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,270 per year, or $21.8 per hour.
Museum Store Sales Associate

Museum Store Sales Associate

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Boston, MA โ€ข On-site

$20/hr

Part-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Part-time
Description
Department: Museum Store "Gift at the Gardner"
Reports to: Store Manager
Classification: Hourly, Non-exempt
Pay: $20.00 per hour
This is an onsite, Boston-based position. Local candidates strongly preferred. No agencies, please.
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Core Values
Isabella Stewart Gardner so deeply believed that art had the power to change lives that she built a beautiful, personal, and immersive Museum "for the education and enjoyment of the public forever." Today the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum (ISGM) is a living embodiment of her bold vision; it's a dynamic place where ideas and creativity in all its forms inspire visitors. We strive to tell new stories and challenge assumptions through exhibitions, music, programs, and performances and by engaging the perspectives and collaboration of our communities.
The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum seeks to connect past with present, develop and sustain mutually beneficial partnerships with local communities and artists, broaden our audiences, and generate opportunities for creativity. We are firmly committed to a welcoming work culture and visitor experience. Our five-year strategic plan outlines the Museum's core values, goals, and initiatives that serve as a renewal of Isabella's promise to serve the public and be a resource for the city.
Position Summary
Gift at the Gardner, a unique destination spot within the visual splendor of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, inspires the senses with products that reflect the Museum's mission, its historical collection, our relationship with contemporary artists, music, and landscape.
The Museum Store Sales Associate will partner with the Store Manager, Director of Retail, and other colleagues to help our customers find the perfect memento for their visit to the Gardner Museum. The Sales Associate will be knowledgeable about the products presented, fluent in the services that the Museum has to offer, and will promote the Museum's mission, exhibitions, programs, and special events. As a representative of the Museum, the Sales Associate will maintain the highest level of courtesy and service to the visiting public.
The hourly rate for this position is $20.00. This is not a seasonal position. We are looking for individuals that are available year round and will not consider applicants that can only work during the summer.
Customer Service:
  • Arrive on time for all assigned shifts.
  • Create a welcoming experience for customers by providing excellent customer service.
  • Prepare the store for daily opening and closing in a safe and efficient manner; count cash drawers, ensure POS equipment is properly working, replenish back stock of products and all other store supplies.
  • Assist with in-person transactions, online order pick-ups, and phone special orders.
  • Maintain merchandise displays and store appearance, ensuring the sales floor is fully stocked and visually inspiring.
  • Remain knowledgeable about store sales goals and actively participate in achieving those goals.
  • Demonstrate knowledge about the store's products and policies, as well as exhibitions and programs happening in the Museum.

Demeanor and Interpersonal Relationships:
  • Warmly engage customers and ask open-ended questions to uncover their needs.
  • Be a friendly and approachable presence to all customers in our store and courteously respond to all inquiries.
  • Utilize sales talents to excite customers about our product assortment and close sales.
  • Remain calm and patient during peak traffic times.

Teamwork and Collaboration:
  • Assist the Store Manager and colleagues in administrative activities related to store operations and setting up for special events and special sales.
  • Communicate with colleagues in a joint effort to close sales and maintain flow of merchandise as a team.

Problem Solving:
  • Possess a solutions-oriented approach to customer inquiries.
  • Be able to think on your feet to troubleshoot minor problems; ask for help from Store Manager or colleagues when necessary.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by Store Manager and/or Director of Retail.

Requirements
Required
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Outstanding customer service background.
  • Prior professional retail sales experience.
  • Ability to work well in a team environment; exceptional interpersonal skills.
  • Proactive; able to multitask and prioritize.
  • Reliable and prompt.
  • Comfortable and competent working with numbers/figures.
  • Familiarity and comfort with using POS systems.
  • Ability to safely lift up to 40 pounds; ability to climb ladders.
  • Ability to stand for extended periods of time.
  • This is not a seasonal position. We are looking for individuals that are available year round and will not consider applicants that can only work during the summer.
  • Legal authorization to work in the United States.
  • Commitment to advancing the ISGM's strategic goals and values.
  • Must complete a pre-employment background check to the Museum's satisfaction.

Desirable
  • Museum and/or non-profit experience.
  • Prior luxury goods experience a plus.

Equal Opportunity Employer
The Museum is committed to affording equal opportunity to qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, age (40 or older), disability, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, childbirth or related conditions, ancestry, or status as a veteran. Consistent with our core values and our founder's legacy, the Museum is dedicated to building a work community that fosters collaboration, excellence, belonging, and a diversity of perspectives and experience.
Request an Accommodation
Applicants with disabilities who are unable to fully access ISGM's online application system may contact us at hr@isgm.org for assistance with a reasonable accommodation.
Salary Description
$20.00/hr