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Museum Collections Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ivy Tech

Museum Collections Intern-Work Study

Richmond, IN · On-site

$12.50 - $17/hr

The student will assist the Museum's Collections Manager with a range of responsibilities, including collections storage, inventory backlog, research, and artifact processing. Tasks will also involve ...

Ivy Tech

Museum Collections Intern-Work Study

Richmond, IN

$12.50 - $17/hr

The student will assist the Museum's Collections Manager with a range of responsibilities, including collections storage, inventory backlog, research, and artifact processing. Tasks will also involve ...

Anchorage Museum

Collections Manager

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$26.25 - $27.50/hr

Care for Collections, Steward Stories, Support Community Connections The Anchorage Museum is a ... Facilitate access to the collection for staff, researchers, artists, and community members * Assist ...

Anchorage Museum

Collections Manager

Anchorage, AK

Care for Collections, Steward Stories, Support Community Connections The Anchorage Museum is a ... Facilitate access to the collection for staff, researchers, artists, and community members * Assist ...

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Museum Collections Assistant information

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How much do museum collections assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum collections assistant in the United States is $20.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Museum Collections Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Museum Collections Assistant, you need a solid understanding of art history or museum studies, attention to detail, and experience handling and cataloging artifacts, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with collections management systems like TMS or PastPerfect and adherence to proper conservation techniques are typically required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you coordinate with curators and other staff. These skills ensure the preservation, accurate documentation, and accessibility of museum collections, which are crucial for the institution's educational and research missions.

What are some common challenges faced by Museum Collections Assistants when managing and cataloging artifacts?

Museum Collections Assistants often encounter challenges such as handling delicate or fragile artifacts, ensuring accurate and detailed cataloging, and maintaining up-to-date records in collection management databases. Balancing the need for careful preservation with accessibility for research or exhibition can also be demanding. Additionally, assistants may need to coordinate with curators, registrars, and conservators to address storage limitations or implement new conservation protocols, requiring strong communication and organizational skills.

What are Museum Collections Assistants?

Museum Collections Assistants are professionals who help manage, document, and care for the objects and artifacts within a museum’s collection. They assist with cataloging, inventory, handling, and storing items to ensure their preservation and accessibility. These assistants often work closely with curators, conservators, and registrars, and may also help set up exhibitions and facilitate research requests. Their role is essential in maintaining the organization and integrity of the museum’s holdings.

What is the difference between Museum Collections Assistant vs Museum Curator?

AspectMuseum Collections AssistantMuseum Curator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degree; some roles may prefer a bachelor's in museum studies or related fieldBachelor's degree often required; master's preferred in museum studies, history, or related fields
Work EnvironmentAssist with handling, cataloging, and maintaining collections; work under supervision in museums or galleriesOversee collections, develop exhibitions, and manage staff; more administrative and decision-making responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions for supporting collection managementEmployed in similar settings but with higher responsibilities for curation and program development

In summary, Museum Collections Assistants focus on supporting collection handling and organization, often requiring less formal education, while Museum Curators have broader responsibilities including developing exhibitions and managing collections, typically requiring advanced degrees and experience.

More about Museum Collections Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Museum Collections Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Museum Collections Assistant job openings:
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Museum Collections Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Collections Assistant job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 50% Part Time, and 12% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,672 per year, or $20 per hour.
Student Museum Collections Assistant

Student Museum Collections Assistant

Chapman University

Orange, CA • On-site

$16.90/hr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Chapman University rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

282nd of 530 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
Student Title Classification Information
Quick Link
https://chapman.peopleadmin.com/postings/39648
Job Number
SE196824
Position Information
Department or Unit Name
Hilbert Museum
Position Headcount
1
Position Title
Student Museum Collections Assistant
Academic Year
Academic Year 2026-2027
Term or Semester
Fall
Is this Role for an Undergrad or Grad Student?
Grad and Undergrad
Anticipated Pay Range
$16.90
Pay Range Information
Chapman University is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this position. This range takes into account a variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Salary offers are determined based on the final candidate's qualifications and experience, as well as internal equity and other internal factors. The anticipated pay range is not a promise of a particular wage.
On which Campus will this work be done?
Orange
Approved Supervisor
Emily Valdez
Supervisor Email
evaldez@chapman.edu
Scheduling
Please use dates within Chapman Academic Calendar
(https://www.chapman.edu/academics/academic-calendar.aspx)
Desired Start Date
08/24/2026
Projected End Date
12/12/2026
Average number of hours per week
Up to 19 Hrs
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary
Provide general support to the Museum Registrar while gaining hands-on experience with museum policies and procedures. Assist with collections management, registration, and exhibition-related tasks. Collaborate with artists, curators, and museum staff on a variety of projects.
Responsibilities
  • Help Registrar with incoming and outgoing artwork condition reports for exhibitions and incoming art donations Learn and assist with art exhibition installations (September and November installations) including art movement and logistics
  • Enforce museum policies and procedures with visitors when needed
  • Research artists and artworks for the artwork database and future exhibitions
  • Regular gallery and artwork maintenance including making sure artwork is safe and secure, light dusting as needed, datalogger maintenance
  • Data entry into artwork database Assist in the research library as needed
  • Administrative tasks (copies, scans, filings, etc.)
  • Assist with additional duties as assigned

Required Qualifications
  • Little to minimal prior experience.
  • Must be proficient in computer skills, including Word, Excel, Outlook, google docs, etc.

Desired Qualifications
  • Have an interest in art and/or art history.
  • Friendly and open to conversing with visitors, staff and docents
  • Flexible schedule, weekday hours
  • Good organizational skills and detail-oriented.

Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicants must have federal work study and reside in California
Budget Information
Is Federal work-study required?
Yes

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