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How much do museum collection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum collection in Chicago, IL is $20.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $23.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive in a Museum Collection role, you need a background in art history, museum studies, or archival science, with strong attention to detail and organizational skills. Familiarity with collections management systems (such as TMS or PastPerfect), digital cataloging, and proper handling, conservation, and storage techniques is critical. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and excellent communication skills help individuals manage collection tasks and collaborate across departments. These abilities ensure collections are accurately documented, preserved, and accessible for exhibitions and research.

What is a Museum Collection job?

A Museum Collection job involves managing, preserving, and organizing artifacts, artworks, or historical objects in a museum. Professionals in this role handle cataloging, storage, conservation, and sometimes exhibition planning. They ensure proper documentation and environmental conditions to protect items for future generations. The job may also involve research and collaboration with curators, historians, and other museum staff.

What are some of the typical daily responsibilities for someone working in a Museum Collection position?

Professionals in Museum Collection roles typically spend their days cataloging new acquisitions, updating collection records, monitoring environmental conditions, and assisting with the safe handling and movement of objects. They may work closely with curators, conservators, and educators to prepare materials for exhibitions, facilitate research access, and support loan agreements with other institutions. Regular tasks also include condition reporting, inventory audits, and digital data entry to ensure the integrity and accessibility of the collection. These varied responsibilities allow for a dynamic and engaging work environment, especially for those passionate about art, history, or cultural heritage.

What are the most commonly searched types of Museum Collection jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Museum Collection jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Museum Collection jobs in Chicago, IL? For Museum Collection jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Museum Collection jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Museum Collection jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Museum Collection jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Collection job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,929 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Museum Intern

Downers Grove Park District

Downers Grove, IL

$15/hr

Internship

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Museum Fall Intern
About us: The Downers Grove Park District enriches our community through natural area preservation and exceptional recreation, parks, and facilities that inspire memorable experiences. With almost 600 acres of parks and facilities, there are thousands of opportunities for individuals of all ages and interests to grow, play, imagine and explore. Learn more at dgparks.org.
The Opportunity: As the Museum Fall Intern you will obtain a wide-ranging overview of Museum operations and gain experience in museum education, collections and historical research.
Pay: $15 per hour and potential for credit towards degree at a college or university
Work Schedule:
  • Position will be a 16-week position from August to December with an average of 10-12 hours per week totaling 200 hours.
  • Work hours are flexible but must take place weekdays between standard museum business hours of 8:30am and 4:30pm.
  • Occasional special events, Saturdays, and evening program hours required as well.
What You'll Do:
  • Help research, develop and lead educational programs for the Downers Grove community
  • Attend special events and prepare interactive elements for events and exhibits as needed.
  • Observe and assist with collections processing, updating artifacts in the museum’s database and helping to complete an inventory of the museum’s collection as needed.
  • Greet visitors at the front desk and answer general visitor questions in order to gain an understanding of Museum visitors and their needs.
  • Attend staff meetings, trainings and special events as scheduled by the Recreation Supervisor
  • Must have regular, consistent, and predictable attendance
  • Follows and adheres to Park District policy and safety guidelines
  • Performs other duties as assigned
  • Job may be modified at any time
About you:
  • 18 years of age or older
  • Self-motivated
  • Must be able to work indoors and outdoors in various settings
  • Strong problem-solving and communication skills
  • Interns must be working towards a degree in one of the following fields: History, Anthropology, American Studies, Museum Studies or equivalent.
  • The Museum prefers students who have experience volunteering for a historical organization.
  • Must possess certification in CPR and First Aid, or become certified within 1 month of being hired (free training provided by the Park District if needed)
  • Able to walk, stand, sit, crouch for extended periods of time, as well as occasionally lifting objects up to 30 lbs.
What sets us apart:
  • Flexible hours and supportive coworkers
  • Collaborative and connected management team
  • Great chance to develop leadership and problem-solving skills
  • Learn life skills like time management and communication
  • Work for a Distinguished Agency Park District
The Downers Grove Park District is an EOE.

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