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Museum Collections Manager Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Director

College Park, MD · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Knowledge of museum theory and practices, including collections management. Knowledge of collections management databases, cloud-based work management software (e.g., Trello, Asana), and Microsoft ...

Assistant Director

College Park, MD · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Knowledge of museum theory and practices, including collections management. Knowledge of collections management databases, cloud-based work management software (e.g., Trello, Asana), and Microsoft ...

Electrician

Potomac, MD · On-site

$39 - $44/hr

Opened in 2006 and expanded in 2018, the museum welcomes visitors to a unique experience of indoor ... Collections Division with art installations and deinstallations. * Utilize the Building Management ...

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Museums Sales Manager

Washington, DC · Remote

$85K - $100K/yr (+ commission)

... collections, creating engaging visitor experiences while meeting the demanding requirements of ... Remote, Full-Time: * ERCO is looking for an enthusiastic Project Lead to join our museum and ...

Showing results 41-60

Museum Collections Manager information

See Washington salary details

$35.1K

$66.5K

$123.5K

How much do museum collections manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for museum collections manager in Washington is $66,508.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,900.00 and $74,200.00 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 Washington?

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

What are popular job titles related to Museum Collections Manager jobs in Washington?

For Museum Collections Manager jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Museum Collections Manager job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,508 per year, or $32 per hour.

Assistant Director

Umd

College Park, MD • On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Job Description SummaryThe Assistant Director of Exhibitions and Programs acts as a direct assistant to the Director of the David C. Driskell Center in all aspects of managing, planning and coordinating activities across its library, gallery and archives. The position will be regularly involved in most planning discussions and meetings and will be assigned tasks according to the Center's priorities. Tasks may include management of the center's schedule of exhibitions and other events, coordinating related education programming and marketing for both on-campus and external audiences. It will also assist the Director in the development program, from investigating and writing grant applications to identifying and helping to develop donor relationships. The position provides full administrative and communications support at a senior level to the Director to ensure the smooth management of day-to-day affairs, handles sensitive and complex issues in a professional and objective manner and manages online communications with members and the general public. The position must take initiative as appropriate, especially in the Director's absence.Minimum Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
Experience: Seven (7) years of professional experience managing business operations. Two (2) years of experience supervising or managing professional staff.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES:

Knowledge of business acumen to understand key business drivers, organizational communications, and data.
Knowledge of organizational and unit performances measures.
Knowledge of the impact and implications of decisions on leadership objectives.
Skill in oral and written communication.
Skill in data analytics and negotiation.
Skill in the use of Microsoft Office and Google Suite products.
Ability to exercise independent judgment and discretion.
Ability to develop and administer new policies and procedures.
Ability to interpret and apply policies, procedures, regulations, and laws.

Additional Job Details

Physical Demands:

Work is performed in an office environment and requires the ability to operate standard office equipment and keyboards. Must have the ability to lift up to 10 pounds and carry parcels, packages and other items; to walk short distances; and travel to deliver and pick up materials.

Licenses/Certifications:

N/A
Preferences:

Master's in Art History, Museum Studies, or related fields.

Five (5) years of full-time experience working in a museum or art gallery.

Some knowledge in the areas of artwork and items in the Center's care.

Knowledge of museum theory and practices, including collections management.

Knowledge of collections management databases, cloud-based work management software (e.g., Trello, Asana), and Microsoft Suite.

Demonstrated experience with the management of exhibitions and art education programs.

Required Application Materials:

Cover letter, resume, and three professional references

Best Consideration Date:

8/10/26

Posting Close Date:

N/A

Open Until Filled:

Yes

Job RisksNot Applicable to This PositionFinancial Disclosure RequiredYes

For more information on Financial Disclosure, please visit Maryland's State Ethics Commission website.

DepartmentARHU-David C. Driskell CenterWorker Sub-Type Staff RegularSalary Range$75,000 - $85,000
Benefits Summary

For more information on Regular Exempt benefits, select this link.

Background Checks

Offers of employment are contingent on completion of a background check. Information reported by the background check will not automatically disqualify anyone from employment. Before any adverse decision, the finalist will have an opportunity to provide information to the University regardingdisclosablebackground checkinformation. The University reserves the right to rescind the offer of employment or otherwise decline or terminate employment if the information reported by the background check is deemed incompatible with the position, regardless of when the background check is completed.

Employment Eligibility

The successful candidate must complete employment eligibility verification (on Form I-9) by presenting documents that establish identity and work authorization within the timeframe required by federal immigration law, and where applicable, to demonstrate renewed employment authorization. Failure to complete employment eligibility verification or reverification within the timeframe set forth by law may result in suspension or termination of employment.

EEO Statement

The University of Maryland, College Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment. Please read the University's Equal Employment Opportunity Statement of Policy.

Title IX Non-Discrimination NoticeResources
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