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Museum Conservation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vanderbilt University

Museum Registrar

Nashville, TN · On-site

Manages conservation projects, including correspondence with conservators, maintenance of records ... Manages the museum's photographic services, including rights and reproductions. * Oversees physical ...

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How much do museum conservation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum conservation in the United States is $20.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a museum conservation?

A museum conservation job involves preserving, restoring, and protecting artifacts, artworks, and historical objects. Conservators assess the condition of items, conduct research, and apply specialized techniques to prevent deterioration. They work with materials like paintings, textiles, sculptures, and documents, often using scientific analysis to guide their efforts. Their goal is to ensure cultural and historical artifacts remain intact for future generations while maintaining ethical restoration standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in museum conservation, and why are they important?

To thrive in Museum Conservation, you need a strong background in chemistry, materials science, art history, and hands-on conservation techniques, typically supported by a relevant degree or graduate qualification. Proficiency with specialized analytical instruments, conservation documentation software, and familiarity with international conservation standards or certifications (such as AIC) is often required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and collaborative problem-solving are standout soft skills in this field. These abilities are crucial to ensure the long-term preservation of cultural artifacts while working efficiently within multidisciplinary museum teams.

What does a museum conservation do?

A Museum Conservation professional's typical day involves examining and assessing the condition of artifacts, performing conservation treatments to stabilize and restore objects, and meticulously documenting all procedures. They often collaborate with curators, exhibition planners, and scientists to develop appropriate care plans and advise on display or storage conditions. Additionally, conservators may conduct research into new materials or conservation methods and help train staff or volunteers on proper handling techniques. This role requires a balance of hands-on technical work and communication, making each day diverse and intellectually engaging.

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Museum Conservation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Conservation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,215 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Director of Conservation

People Architects

Cleveland, OH • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

People Architects is excited to recruit for a Director of Conservation for our client. This position is responsible for developing a long-term strategy for conservation science, land protection, stewardship, science communication, and community engagement in alignment with the Cleveland Museum of Natural History's mission. 


The Director of Conservation provides strategic leadership for the museum’s Natural Areas program and conservation initiatives across approximately 12,500 acres of protected land. This role is responsible for developing a long-term strategy for conservation science, land protection, stewardship, science communication, and community engagement in alignment with the Museum’s mission.  The position will also develop and lead programs focused on environmental communication, sustainability, and biodiversity in alignment with the Museum’s and program’s strategic plans.


The Director of Conservation will oversee land management and stewardship programs while strengthening the integration of conservation science with the museum’s research, education, and public programming. The role serves as a prominent conservation leader for the museum, building partnerships across the conservation community and positioning the museum as a hub for scientific collaboration and environmental stewardship in the Great Lakes region.  The director’s work will align with the environmental research efforts of the museum.


This position supervises the Natural Areas team and works cross-functionally with museum leadership, curators, and educators to ensure conservation work supports the museum’s broader mission.


Key Responsibilities:


Strategy & Vision

  • Provide strategic leadership for the museum’s conservation and natural areas programs.
  • Implement and advance conservation priorities outlined in the museum’s and departments strategic plans.
  • Integrate conservation with research, education, and public engagement.
  • Guide the development and execution of long-term stewardship plans across approximately 12,500 acres of museum-managed land.
  • Monitor, evaluate, and report on conservation outcomes and stewardship initiatives.


Fundraising & External Relations

  • Works closely with the philanthropy team to secure major gift and grants.
  • Represents the museum publicly in friend raising, fundraising, and in governmental and community partnerships.
  • Builds relationships with foundations and conservation entities. 


Natural Areas Program Oversight

  • Lead and support the Natural Areas Department, including land stewardship and land management programs.
  • Supervise three direct reports and provide leadership to a broader team of approximately eight staff members.
  • Ensure conservation work aligns with best practices in ecological management, restoration, and biodiversity protection.


Research & Science

  • Strengthen connections between the museum’s conservation work and its scientific research initiatives.
  • Position the museum’s natural areas as a living laboratory for research, education, and public engagement.
  • Facilitate opportunities for scientists, researchers, and academic partners to conduct research on museum-managed lands.
  • Supports research in areas such as ecology and biodiversity.


Community Engagement & Partnerships

  • Serve as a public-facing conservation leader representing the museum within the regional conservation community.
  • Utilize current and develop partnerships with universities, conservation organizations, government agencies, and community stakeholders.
  • Promote the museum’s conservation initiatives through presentations, collaborations, and community outreach.


Cross-Department Collaboration

  • Work closely with museum leadership, curators, and educators to integrate conservation work into programming, research, and public engagement.
  • Support initiatives that connect conservation science with museum exhibitions, educational programs, and public communication.


Program Leadership

  • Assess and recommend staffing, program development, and resource needs for conservation initiatives.
  • Oversees conservation programs (fieldwork, collections care, biodiversity initiatives, climate science as needed)
  • Assure scientific rigor and measurable impact.
  • Manage opportunities with other organization partnerships.


Administration

  • Oversees budgets, staffing, and regulatory compliance.
  • Ensures adherence to best practices and legal frameworks. 


Qualifications

Required

  • An advanced degree in a related field or equivalent years of experience.
  • Significant experience working in conservation, ecological research, or environmental stewardship and familiarity with conservation issues affecting the Great Lakes region.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience managing teams and complex environmental programs.
  • Fundraising and stakeholder engagement skills.
  • Experience implementing strategic initiatives or leading program development.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to translate scientific work for public audiences.
  • Experience building partnerships with community organizations, researchers, and conservation stakeholders.


Please provide a cover letter and resume.