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Museum Collection Manager Jobs in Appleton, WI (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary Oversees the museum operations, provides for the collection and preservation ... Essential Duties Manages the museum operation, development, coordination, and promotion of museum ...

Continuous Job Summary Oversees the museum operations, provides for the collection and preservation ... Essential Duties Manages the museum operation, development, coordination, and promotion of museum ...

Museum Collection Manager information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$30.2K

$57.3K

$106.4K

How much do museum collection manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for museum collection manager in Appleton, WI is $57,296.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,500.00 and $63,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Museum Collection Manager do?

A Museum Collection Manager is responsible for the care, organization, preservation, and documentation of a museum’s collection. They ensure that artifacts are stored properly, maintain accurate records, and oversee handling and transportation. Collection Managers often collaborate with curators, conservators, and researchers to facilitate exhibitions and loans. They also implement policies for conservation, security, and ethical stewardship of objects. Their role is crucial in maintaining the long-term integrity and accessibility of a museum’s collection.

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

To thrive as a Museum Collection Manager, you need expertise in collections care, art or artifact handling, documentation procedures, and typically a degree in museum studies, art history, or a related field. Familiarity with collection management software (such as TMS or PastPerfect), condition reporting protocols, and conservation standards is essential, and professional certifications like those from the American Alliance of Museums can be an asset. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities distinguish standout candidates. These competencies ensure the proper preservation, documentation, and accessibility of objects while supporting museum operations and public engagement.

What types of daily responsibilities can a Museum Collection Manager expect in this role?

Museum Collection Managers typically spend their days cataloging incoming acquisitions, overseeing object storage conditions, updating collection records, and coordinating conservation or restoration efforts. They often work closely with curators, registrars, exhibit designers, and educators to support exhibitions and public programs. The role may also involve preparing objects for loans, conducting inventory audits, and implementing preventive conservation measures. This dynamic environment requires adaptability, collaboration, and a proactive approach to both routine care and special projects.

What job categories do people searching Museum Collection Manager jobs in Appleton, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Museum Collection Manager jobs in Appleton, WI are:

$95K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Brown County (Wisconsin) rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

479th of 663 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Summary Oversees the museum operations, provides for the collection and preservation/conservation of relevant and significant objects of art, history, and science from or used in Northeast Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan; interprets collections and educates residents through exhibits, programming, research, and publications. Assumes overall responsibility for the museum's community relations. Essential Duties Manages the museum operation, development, coordination, and promotion of museum programs; monitors time, people, equipment, and other resources for the department to ensure efficient organization and completion of work.

Collaborates with the Neville Public Museum Foundation Board and its Executive Director to coordinate, promote, and market museum programs, exhibitions, educational opportunities, community partnerships, and other plans to align with the goals and objectives of the department. Plans, develops, presents, and implements the annual budget; monitors expenditures and controls expenses for the department; enforces cost control measures, eliminates redundant systems, and establishes and implements departmental cost measurements to ensure compliance with budget limitations. Develops and implements annual work plan which outlines goals and objectives of the department based upon the needs of Brown County; coordinates the work performed by the department and ensures projects are completed in a timely manner.

Interviews, selects, supervises, plans, coordinates, and assigns the work of staff and (specified contracted employees) develops their potential, monitors, and evaluates their performance and work output to maintain efficiency and quality of work; participates in and makes decisions concerning grievances and discipline; participates in contract negotiations. Plans long-range goals, objectives, organizational structure, and overall direction for the department; monitors, reviews and communicates the implementation phases of the department's strategic plans to ensure that long-range goals and objectives are met. Develops, communicates, implements, and monitors policies, procedures, and standards for the department; conducts staff meetings to review progress, accomplishments, budgets, strategies, and plans for the department; ensures quality standards and compliance with regulations are maintained.

Serves as the primary liaison between the County, the Museum, local museum organizations, and the Museum Foundation. Represents the Museum at public events and functions, acts as its spokesperson to the media, and approves all news releases. Participates in local, state, and regional committees and engages with local cultural organizations on the Museum's behalf.

Consistently projects a positive and professional image of the Museum. Researches, develops, and implements alternative sources of revenue including grant proposals, special events, endowment, and ensures compliance with grant requirements. Plans, develops and implements marketing and advertising strategies to promote the Museum and its programs.

Prepares oral and written reports on Museum activities, budget and personnel to County Executive, boards, and committees in an accurate and complete manner; works with joint county/corporation committee to formulate long-range goals and provide for implementation. Plans exhibit scheduling with curators; makes final decisions as to yearly exhibit schedule. Makes final decisions regarding programming, collections management policies and educational programs; gives lectures to local organizations, businesses, and schools pertaining to the museum, the exhibits, programs, and related subject matters; answers public inquiries; maintains up-to-date knowledge and awareness of topics of interest in museum administration and programming; maintains current information regarding museums and ensures museum is practicing within compliance and accepted form.

Maintains and upgrades professional knowledge, skills, and development by attending seminars, workshops and training programs and reading trade and professional journals and publications. MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT USED: General office equipment Computer Minimum Qualifications Required Education and Experience: Bachelors Degree from an accredited university or college in Business or Public Administration, Museum Studies or related field. Five (5) to seven (7) years of executive level experience in market analysis and fund development designed to meet the organization's strategic plan or carry out the organization's mission; or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities.

Licenses and Certifications: Valid Wisconsin Driver's License. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Knowledge of museum operations including collections, exhibits, education, and programming. Knowledge of basic management principles and techniques.

Knowledge of accounting and budgeting. Knowledge of rules and regulations regarding non-profit organizations and museums. Knowledge of public relations.

Knowledge of planning and marketing. Knowledge of governmental structures. Knowledge of and ability to utilize a computer and the required software.

Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Ability to make verbal and written presentations. Ability to effectively manage people.

Ability to write grants. Ability to research and compile information. Ability to market and promote the museum.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff and the public. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Lifting 50 pounds maximum with frequent lifting and/or carrying of objects weighing up to 40 pounds. Intermittent standing, walking, and sitting; occasional driving.

Using hand(s)/feet for repetitive single grasping, fine manipulation, pushing and pulling, and operating controls. Occasional bending, twisting, squatting, climbing, reaching, and grappling. Communicating orally in a clear manner.

Distinguishing sounds at various frequencies and volumes. Distinguishing people or objects at varied distances under a variety of light conditions. Brown County is an E-Verify employer.

Click the links below for more information. https://www.browncountywi.gov/i/f/files/Human-Resources/E-Verify%20Participation%20Poster(1).pdf https://www.browncountywi.gov/i/f/files/Human-Resources/IER%20Right%20to%20Work%20Poster.pdf


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