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Museum Collections Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Brown University

Collections Assistant

Providence, RI · On-site

The Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology is Brown University's teaching and research museum. A ... Responsibilities: The Collections Assistant reports to the Collections Manager/Registrar and ...

Cleary University

FWS: Museum Assistant

Howell, MI · On-site

Museum Assistant: Arthur Secunda Museum Duties Under the direction of the Curator, the Museum ... Collections * Conduct collections inventory, checking work against collections management system ...

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How much do museum collections assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 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 is a museum collections assistant?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a museum collections assistant?

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 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.

How to get into museum collections assistant work?

To become a museum collections assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring or requiring a bachelor's degree in museum studies, history, archaeology, or a related field. Relevant skills include attention to detail, organization, and familiarity with cataloging tools or databases. Gaining experience through internships or volunteering at museums can improve job prospects and understanding of collection management practices.

How to get museum collections assistant experience?

To gain experience as a museum collections assistant, individuals often start by volunteering or interning at museums to develop skills in collection handling, cataloging, and conservation. Relevant education in museum studies, archaeology, or history, along with familiarity with collections management software, can enhance prospects. Entry-level positions may require attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to work with delicate artifacts.
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Museum Collections Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Collections Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,672 per year, or $20 per hour.

Part-Time Museum Collections Assistant

Layton City

Layton, UT • On-site

Part-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

GENERAL PURPOSE

Performs a variety of general administrative duties as needed to assist with the digitization of the collections, help with the planning and installation of rotating exhibits, and assist with events as needed. The collections digitization project involves updating computer records, photographing artifacts in the collection, and rehousing items in archival boxes.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Promotes and follows the City's mission statement, values, and expectations.

Conducts research and identification of the historical identification and interpretation of museum artifacts and other items with historical significance, assists with the inventory and cataloging of items in the museum collections, assists in the research for, design of, and installation of museum exhibits, and helps with the planning and running of events.

May also be asked to watch the front desk of the museum when the curator is away.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  1. Education and Experience:
  1. Concurrent enrollment or recent graduation from a degree program in museum studies, art history, public history, history, anthropology, archaeology or related field;
  1. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  1. Basic Knowledge of museum best practices in collections management and preventative conservation methods.
  2. Working knowledge of the operation of personal computers and various software applications, including spreadsheets, word processing, and basic photo editing software.
  3. Familiarity with collections management database systems; knowledge of Past Perfect preferred.
  4. General experience with technology including scanners and cameras.
  5. Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
  6. Considerable ability to work independently.
  1. Special Qualifications:

            None

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