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Museum Conservation Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Computer History Museum

Cisco Archivist

San Jose, CA · On-site

Supervise and train interns, engage in reference services; * Digitize materials according to ... Familiarity with preservation and conservation standards for archival and museum collections both ...

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How much do museum conservation internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum conservation internship in the United States is $15.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a museum conservation internship?

A Museum Conservation Internship is a temporary, hands-on work experience for students or early-career professionals interested in the preservation and restoration of cultural heritage objects. Interns typically work under the guidance of experienced conservators, learning about various conservation techniques, documentation, preventive care, and ethical considerations in the field. The internship provides valuable exposure to museum environments and helps build the practical skills necessary for a career in conservation. Duties may include assisting with condition assessments, treatments, research, and educational outreach. These internships are often offered by museums, galleries, or cultural institutions and may be paid or unpaid.

What kinds of projects and responsibilities can I expect during a museum conservation internship?

As a Museum Conservation Intern, you can expect to work closely with conservators on the examination, documentation, and treatment of artifacts or artworks. Typical tasks may include assisting with condition assessments, conducting research on materials and techniques, documenting conservation processes, and participating in preventive care such as monitoring environmental conditions. Interns often collaborate with curators, registrars, and exhibition teams, gaining exposure to both hands-on treatment and the broader context of collection care. This experience provides valuable insight into the daily challenges of preserving cultural heritage and builds foundational skills for a career in conservation.

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

To thrive as a Museum Conservation Intern, you need a foundational understanding of art history, chemistry, and conservation principles, often supported by relevant coursework or a related degree. Familiarity with conservation tools, documentation software, and environmental monitoring systems is typically expected. Attention to detail, patience, and strong communication skills help interns collaborate with conservators and handle delicate artifacts responsibly. These skills ensure the preservation of cultural heritage and the integrity of museum collections for future generations.

What is the difference between Museum Conservation Internship vs Museum Curator?

AspectMuseum Conservation InternshipMuseum Curator
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a conservation, art history, or related degreeUsually requires a master's degree in museum studies, art history, or related field
Work EnvironmentHands-on conservation labs, museums, and storage areasExhibition planning, collection management, and public engagement spaces
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by museums, galleries, and conservation labsMuseums, cultural institutions, and galleries

The Museum Conservation Internship focuses on developing practical conservation skills in a hands-on environment, often for students or early-career professionals. In contrast, a Museum Curator oversees collections, exhibitions, and educational programs, typically requiring advanced degrees and more experience. Both roles are essential in museums but serve different functions within the industry.

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Museum Conservation Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Conservation Internship job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Internship, 56% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,333 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Assistant, Associate or Full Conservator - Paintings

slam

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

$88K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Applications received by July 24 will be given preference. Positions will remain open until filled.

Summary:  Produces examinations, proposals, and other related documentation for collections objects, considered acquisitions, and loans from other entities. Conducts treatment on collection objects and provides recommendations for care and risk reduction. Consults with curators and external clients on preservation and treatment strategies. Assesses and reports the suitability of collection objects for loan and when necessary acts as a courier. Collaboratively advises museum staff and contractors on packing, handling, storage, installation, and environmental conditions required for collection objects. Assists with departmental planning, exhibition proposal review, and policy development & establishment. Assists with supervision of technicians, interns, and volunteers. Performs other duties according to the priorities assigned by senior staff

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Examine, document and treat art works in the Museum’s permanent collection and on loan under supervision of senior staff.
  • Design and carry out conservation treatment in consultation with Curators and stakeholders.
  • Provide written and photographic documentation to record condition of objects, treatments proposed, and treatments performed according to the AIC Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.
  • Carry out and/or facilitate study and analysis of works in the collection in support of curatorial, treatment, or research projects.
  • Produce presentations and/or publications for the advancement of the field and to highlight research initiatives.
  • Maintain professional networks and continuing education opportunities to remain current with best practices and philosophies.
  • Identify, solicit, and contract specialized vendors to supplement the museum’s in-house equipment or analytical capabilities.
  • Recommend other Conservators outside their field of expertise to consult and/or contract on projects, as needed.
  • Assist with the supervision of technicians, interns, and volunteers.
  • Advise on preventative maintenance in the Museum as a whole in the areas of environment, pest management, display, handling, packing, storage, and installation.
  • Work collaboratively with the Curator, Designer, Mountmaker and Preparators on the design of appropriate measures for display and/or storage.
  • Examine artworks prior to acquisition to aid the Curatorial staff in determining their physical and aesthetic condition, as well as their authenticity.
  • Examine works requested for loan to determine suitability for travel and to document their condition and advise on any special packing and shipping considerations.
  • Act as a courier for works of art, particularly objects with condition or handling concerns.
  • Monitor stock and order conservation supplies for the lab and specific projects.
  • Assist with public outreach, programs, and fundraising initiatives.

Assistant Conservator Qualifications:

  • Master’s Degree from an accredited conservation program or its equivalent and full-time post-graduate experience practicing conservation in their field of specialty.
  • Familiarity with and adherence to the American Institute for Conservation’s (AIC) Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.
  • Experience in The Museum System (TMS) collections database or equivalent content management system, facility in digital documentation and  productivity software, and experience.

 

Additional Details:
Pay Range: $60,561 – $74,187/year, commensurate with experience

Status: Regular, Full-Time

Associate Conservator Qualifications:

  • Master’s Degree from an accredited conservation program or its equivalent and minimum of 5 years full-time post-graduate experience practicing conservation in their field of specialty.
  • Familiarity with and adherence to the American Institute for Conservation’s (AIC) Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.
  • Experience in The Museum System (TMS) collections database or equivalent content management system, facility in digital documentation and productivity software.

Additional Details:
Pay Range: $68,131 – $83,461/year, commensurate with experience

Status: Regular, Full-Time

Conservator Qualifications:

  • Master’s Degree from an accredited conservation program or its equivalent and 8 or more years full-time post-graduate experience practicing conservation in their field of specialty.
  • Familiarity with and adherence to the American Institute for Conservation’s (AIC) Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Practice.
  • Experience in The Museum System (TMS) collections database or equivalent content management system, facility in digital documentation and productivity software
  • Experience working in a Fine Arts museum is preferred

Additional Details:
Pay Range: $88,302 – $110,377/year, commensurate with experience

Status: Regular, Full-Time

The Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to treating all applicants and employees fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience, without regard to sex, race, age, disability, religion, national origin, color, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.

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