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Museum Conservation Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Museum Conservation Internship information

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How much do museum conservation internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 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 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.

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 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.
More about Museum Conservation Internship jobs
What cities are hiring for Museum Conservation Internship jobs? Cities with the most Museum Conservation Internship job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Museum Conservation jobs? The most popular types of Museum Conservation jobs are:
What states have the most Museum Conservation Internship jobs? States with the most job openings for Museum Conservation Internship jobs include:
Infographic showing various Museum Conservation Internship job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,333 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

***Revised***Paper Conservator

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ • On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 5 days ago


Princeton University rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 537 rated colleges and universities


Job description

The Princeton University Art Museum seeks an experienced, engaged, and innovative Paper Conservator who thrives in a collaborative and goal-oriented environment. Reporting to the Chief Conservator and working in close coordination with the Associate Objects Conservator and Curators, the Paper Conservator will help shape our program to conserve works on paper, in alignment with the Museum's priorities. Works on paper have been a part of our collection since our founding in the 18th century. The collections include watercolors, drawings, prints, pastels, illuminations, scroll paintings, folding screens, photographs, and archival documents. The Paper Conservator will join the Museum at a dynamic and exciting time as we are beginning a novel chapter in the state-of-the-art conservation spaces housed in the new museum building. Our conservators, in collaboration with other Museum departments, will play a key role in shaping the presentation and interpretation of the Museum's collections in spaces that afford encounters with cultures past and present from around the world and seek to foster stronger citizenship among university, local, and global communities. The appointment will be at the rank of Professional Specialist, and the appointment level will be based on the successful candidate's experience. Art Museum conservator salary ranges are assistant conservator $70,000-$90,000; associate conservator $80,000-$100,000; full conservator $100,000-$130,000. Priorities for the Paper Conservator will be to make the newly designed and discipline-specific paper conservation studio fully operational to prepare works for the galleries. In addition, the Paper Conservator will carry out research, collaborate with registrars and curators in the care of objects, cultivate supporters, and initiate scholarly and public programs. Working within a team environment, the Paper Conservator will promote engagement and collaboration within the Museum and beyond, fully embracing the possibilities of a campus-based museum. The ideal candidate will have an MA or MS in Conservation from a recognized training program and at least 5 years' conservation experience (beyond the internship level); experience in an academic setting is a plus. The position requires a track record in working on exhibitions; a record of scholarly research; knowledge of current preventive conservation standards, proven administrative abilities; and a strong orientation toward collaborative work in a fast-paced environment. Participation in teaching will be expected, along with mentoring students and contributing to broader efforts to foster curricular and scholarly engagement with the collections among faculty, students, and other communities. The work location for this position is in-person on campus at Princeton University. At Princeton, individuals with a diverse array of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences find unique opportunities to advance their academic passions while working with their peers and the broader Princeton community. To learn more, please visit http://artmuseum.princeton.edu. Interested candidates should apply at https://www.princeton.edu/acad-positions/position/41041 and submit a cover letter, CV, and contact information of three references. This position is subject to the University's background check policy. This position is not eligible for sponsorship of an H-1B visa requiring consular processing.
Expected Salary Range: 70,000-130,000
The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.
The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

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