1

Museum Collections Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Paid Internship

Cincinnati, OH ยท On-site

$15 - $18/hr

The intern will conduct object research, capture reference photographs, prepare formal accession paperwork, and input comprehensive data into the museum's collections management system, TMS (The ...

Digitization Intern

Detroit, MI ยท On-site

$2.0K/wk

About Motown Museum In the 1960s, Hitsville U.S.A. was buzzing with activity. These modest ... The intern will work within the Archives & Collections Department and report to the Digital ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Museum Collections Intern information

See salary details

$11

$19

$29

How much do museum collections intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum collections intern in the United States is $19.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Museum Collections Interns?

Museum Collections Interns are individuals, usually students or recent graduates, who assist museum staff in managing, cataloging, preserving, and researching items within a museum's collection. Their duties may include inventorying artifacts, updating records in collection databases, helping with the preparation of exhibits, and ensuring proper storage and handling of objects. These internships provide hands-on experience in museum operations and are valuable for those interested in pursuing careers in museum studies or related fields.

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

To thrive as a Museum Collections Intern, you need a background in art history, museum studies, or a related field, along with strong organizational and research skills. Familiarity with collections management software, cataloging systems, and basic artifact handling procedures is typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and a collaborative mindset are important soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure the proper care, documentation, and accessibility of cultural artifacts, which are vital for preserving and sharing museum collections.

What types of projects and tasks can a Museum Collections Intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Museum Collections Intern, you can expect to engage in a variety of hands-on projects such as cataloging artifacts, updating collection databases, assisting with condition reports, and helping with the preparation and installation of exhibits. Interns often work closely with collections managers and conservators, gaining exposure to best practices in object handling, storage, and preventive conservation. You'll also have opportunities to participate in team meetings and may be asked to conduct research to support interpretive or curatorial projects, providing a well-rounded experience in museum operations.
More about Museum Collections Intern jobs
What cities are hiring for Museum Collections Intern jobs? Cities with the most Museum Collections Intern job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Museum Collections jobs? The most popular types of Museum Collections jobs are:
What states have the most Museum Collections Intern jobs? States with the most job openings for Museum Collections Intern jobs include:
Infographic showing various Museum Collections Intern job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,174 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

$15/hr

Other

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Collections Internship


Summary

The Collections Intern will assist department staff with a variety of core collections management activities. This internship provides a valuable opportunity to gain practical, hands-on experience working directly with museum artifacts, including both two-dimensional and three-dimensional objects, while developing proper object handling and care techniques. In addition, the intern will receive mentorship and guidance from the Director of Collections, Collections Manager, Registrar, and Collections Assistant, offering insight into the day-to-day operations and best practices of museum collections management.

Tasks & Duties

  • Accessioning
  • Photo documentation
  • Artifact and Gallery cleaning
  • Condition reporting
  • Research as needed
  • Data input
  • Artifact presentations and museum tours as needed


Possible projects

  • Photography of uncaptured permanent collection objects
  • Organization of stored collection artifacts
  • Storage labeling
  • Exhibits maintenance


Requirements & Qualifications

  • Museum Studies major (preference for graduate level student)
  • Attention to detail and good organizational & planning skills
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
  • Flexible and able to adjust to changing demands
  • Must be proficient in computer skills including Office 365
  • Available to work days, evenings, and weekends as needed


Preferred Experiences

  • Previous museum collections internship or volunteer work.


Eligibility


Intern applicants must be currently enrolled in a college (preferably entering senior year after summer 2026) or graduate school program.


Details

  • Rock Hall internships are paid positions and for enrichment purposes must be willing to work with other departments.
  • The internship is onsite, starting date in August to be determined. Exact end dates could be flexible with some internships.


Employer's Rights


This job description does not list all the duties of the position. You may be asked by supervisors or managers to perform other duties. You will be evaluated in part based upon your performance of the tasks listed in this job description.

The employer has the right to revise this job description at any time. The job description is not a contract for employment, and either you or the employer may terminate employment at any time, for any reason.