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Museum Collections Manager Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Museum Associate

Sterling, CO · On-site

$18.01 - $22.94/hr

Conduct research related to Museum collections, historical materials, artifacts, and exhibits ... Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work effectively with frequent ...

Museum Associate

Sterling, CO · On-site

$18.01 - $22.94/hr

Conduct research related to Museum collections, historical materials, artifacts, and exhibits ... Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work effectively with frequent ...

... collections * Denver Zoo - enjoy animal exhibits, shows, and family-friendly fun * Museum of ... managing time, supplies, and resources. * Evaluate: Evaluates patient response to interventions ...

Museum Collections Manager information

See Colorado salary details

$32.6K

$61.7K

$114.6K

How much do museum collections manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for museum collections manager in Colorado is $61,747.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,600.00 and $68,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a museum collections manager do?

A Museum Collections Manager is responsible for overseeing the care, documentation, and organization of a museum's collection of objects or artworks. They ensure that items are properly cataloged, stored, and preserved, following established conservation and handling protocols. Collections Managers also facilitate access for researchers, support exhibitions, and may help with acquisitions and loan agreements. Their work is essential to preserving cultural heritage and making museum collections accessible to the public and scholars.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a museum collections manager, and why are they important?

A Museum Collections Manager should have expertise in art history or museum studies, experience with collection care, and typically a relevant degree such as a master's in museum studies or a related field. Familiarity with collection management systems (like TMS or PastPerfect), conservation techniques, and proper documentation practices is critical. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills that help ensure accuracy and collaboration across departments. These competencies are vital for preserving artifacts, maintaining accurate records, and supporting the museum’s mission to educate and engage the public.

What are some common challenges faced by museum collections managers when implementing new collection management systems?

Museum Collections Managers often encounter challenges when introducing new collection management systems, such as ensuring data accuracy during migration, training staff on new procedures, and integrating the system with existing workflows. Coordinating input from various departments and balancing the need for accessibility with security protocols can also be complex. Successful implementation typically involves careful planning, open communication with stakeholders, and ongoing support to adapt to evolving museum needs.

What is the difference between Museum Collections Manager vs Museum Registrar?

AspectMuseum Collections ManagerMuseum Registrar
Primary FocusOversees collection care, preservation, and managementHandles documentation, cataloging, and record-keeping of collections
CredentialsOften requires a degree in museum studies, history, or related fieldsTypically requires similar credentials, with emphasis on record management skills
Work EnvironmentInvolves hands-on collection work, conservation, and planningPrimarily administrative, working with databases and records
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed in museums, galleries, and cultural institutionsFound in similar settings, focusing on collection documentation

The Museum Collections Manager and Museum Registrar roles share overlapping credentials and work environments but differ mainly in focus. The Collections Manager emphasizes collection care and preservation, while the Registrar concentrates on documentation and record-keeping. Both positions are vital in museum operations and often work closely together to ensure collections are well-maintained and accurately documented.

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

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

What job categories do people searching Museum Collections Manager jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Museum Collections Manager jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Museum Collections Manager jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Museum Collections Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Museum Collections Manager job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,747 per year, or $29.7 per hour.

Arachnology Research Assistant

Denver, CO

Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Museums and Historical Sites • 201 - 500 employees

Part-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

This position works with the Curator of Invertebrate Zoology and collection managers to support research objectives related to current research objectives.  

This position has no supervisory responsibilities but may oversee the work of volunteers and interns.

Job Class: Part Time
Hiring Range: $25.00 - $26.00/hour
Work Schedule: Variable times during normal work hours, Monday-Friday, 9:00-5:00
Direct Reports: 0

Essential Duties
  • Research
    •  Undertakes innovative scientific/academic research.
    • Carries out research according to instruction from Project Director.  
    • Compiles all documentation for specimens collected, if applicable. 
    • Enters all data and information into relevant database(s).
    • Prepares and oversees the work of volunteers and interns as necessary. 
  • Collections
    • Implements preparation of specimens for the museum’s collections.
    • Assists the department in collections management activities, if applicable. 
  • Outreach
    • Supports and delivers innovative education, exhibits, and outreach.
    • Assists the department and division in conveying the value and importance of research and collections care, if applicable 
  • Museum Involvement
    • Participates in all Museum-wide mandatory trainings. 
    • Participates in Staff Inflection, Employee Engagement Team, and Inclusion focused events. 
    • Stays abreast of Museum policies.

Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications/Requirements
  • Bachelor's Degree in Biology or related science
  • Current enrollment in graduate degree program
Application Instructions

Please submit your resume by 6:00 p.m. MT on Friday, September 4, 2026.  Applications will not be accepted after this time. DMNS reserves the right to close the position prior to this date. Applications may only be accepted electronically via the Museum's website.