ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Museum Collections Intern Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

All JobsMuseum Collections Intern JobsMuseum Collections Intern Jobs in California

Museum Collections Intern information

See California salary details

$10

$19

$29

How much do museum collections intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum collections intern in California is $19.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $20.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a museum collections intern?

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Museum Collections jobs in California?

The most popular types of Museum Collections jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Museum Collections Intern jobs in California?

For Museum Collections Intern jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Museum Collections Intern jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Museum Collections Intern jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Museum Collections Intern jobs?

Cities in California with the most Museum Collections Intern job openings:

Museum Collections Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Collections Intern job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,648 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Curatorial and Archives

Dominguez Rancho Adobe Museum

Compton, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Intern Responsibilities

Curatorial & Archives Intern

Dominguez Rancho Adobe Museum

Thank you for your interest in the Dominguez Rancho Adobe Museum. Curatorial and Archives Interns play an important role in preserving, researching, and interpreting the museum's collections while supporting exhibitions, educational programs, and the stewardship of California history.

Collections Care

Responsibilities:

  • Assist with the proper handling and care of museum artifacts.
  • Follow museum procedures for object handling and storage.
  • Help organize and rehouse collections using archival-quality materials.
  • Monitor the condition of artifacts and report any concerns to museum staff.
  • Assist with inventory projects and collections organization.

Archival Processing

Responsibilities:

  • Organize, sort, and catalog archival materials, including photographs, documents, maps, and manuscripts in PastPerfect.
  • Assist with digitization projects by scanning and organizing digital files.
  • Label and file archival materials according to museum standards.
  • Help maintain accurate records within the museum's collections database.
  • Preserve archival materials using proper archival handling techniques.

Research

Responsibilities:

  • Conduct historical research using primary and secondary sources.
  • Assist with artifact and archival research to support exhibitions and educational programming.
  • Verify historical information and document research findings.
  • Compile research notes and bibliographies for museum projects.
  • Assist staff with special research requests as needed.

General Intern Expectations

All Curatorial & Archives Interns are expected to:

  • Arrive on time and maintain a consistent internship schedule.
  • Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and attention to detail.
  • Handle all collections and archival materials with care and respect.
  • Follow museum policies regarding collections, confidentiality, and safety.
  • Maintain an organized and clean workspace.
  • Ask questions and seek guidance when handling unfamiliar materials or tasks.
  • Communicate effectively with museum staff regarding project progress and deadlines.
  • Represent the Dominguez Rancho Adobe Museum in a courteous and professional manner.

Thank you for contributing to the preservation and interpretation of the Dominguez Rancho Adobe Museum's collections. Your work helps ensure that the history of the Dominguez family and early California remains accessible for future generations.

Apply