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Museum Conservator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Chicago Library

Project Conservator

Institute, WI · On-site

$16.50 - $22.50/hr

Department Museum Conservation About the Department The Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures ... Job Summary Reporting to the Head Conservator and the Museum Director/Chief Curator, the Project ...

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How much do museum conservator jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for museum conservator in the United States is $44,195.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $48,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a museum conservator?

A Museum Conservator is responsible for preserving and restoring artifacts, artworks, and historical objects to prevent deterioration. They analyze materials, assess damage, and use specialized techniques to clean, repair, and stabilize items. Conservators often work in museums, archives, or historical sites, collaborating with curators and researchers. Their role ensures that cultural heritage remains accessible for future generations through careful preservation and documentation.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a museum conservator?

Museum Conservators spend their days assessing the condition of artifacts and artworks, performing restoration treatments, and documenting their work in detail. They often collaborate with curators, registrars, and exhibit designers to ensure items are safely displayed and stored according to best practices. Routine tasks can include scientific analysis, preventive conservation planning, and responding to potential risks such as environmental changes or pest infestations. This role often requires both hands-on laboratory work and written reporting, making it dynamic and intellectually engaging. Those in the position also frequently participate in research, professional development, or public outreach activities to stay current in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a museum conservator?

To thrive as a Museum Conservator, you need specialized knowledge in materials science, conservation techniques, and art history, typically supported by an advanced degree in conservation or a related field. Familiarity with scientific analysis tools, conservation lab equipment, and digital documentation systems is crucial, along with relevant professional certifications like the American Institute for Conservation (AIC) membership. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication make candidates stand out in collaborative and multidisciplinary environments. These competencies are essential to ensure the long-term preservation, restoration, and interpretation of priceless artifacts and artworks.

How do you become a museum conservator?

To become a museum conservator, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in conservation, art history, chemistry, or a related field, followed by a master's degree in conservation or a specialized program. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or apprenticeships and obtaining professional certification, such as from the American Institute for Conservation, can enhance job prospects. Strong attention to detail, knowledge of preservation techniques, and familiarity with conservation tools are essential for success in this field.

What does a museum conservator do in a museum?

A museum conservator is responsible for preserving, repairing, and maintaining artworks, artifacts, and historical objects to ensure their long-term stability. They assess the condition of items, perform treatments using specialized techniques and tools, and document conservation processes to protect cultural heritage. Conservation work often requires knowledge of chemistry, art history, and the use of protective environments like climate-controlled storage.
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Museum Conservator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Conservator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,195 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Museum Textile Conservator - Full Time

Paisley Park

Chanhassen, MN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Are you passionate about textiles, fashion history, and cultural preservation? Do you thrive in museum environments while seeking a role that is both meaningful and creatively inspiring?

Paisley Park invites an experienced Textile Conservator to join our Museum Collections team and play a vital role in preserving one of the most distinctive collections in music history. This full-time position offers the rare opportunity to care for and conserve the iconic garments, costumes, and textile artifacts that reflect the extraordinary creative vision of Prince.

At Paisley Park, art, music, fashion, culture, and history converge. As Textile Conservator, you will help ensure that these remarkable objects continue to educate, inspire, and connect audiences with Prince's enduring legacy for generations to come.

Responsibilities

  • Efficiently run conservation work area, including defining protocols and procedures
  • Developing, researching, and implementing conservation strategies and treatment plans
  • Training and advising museum and collections staff on conservation best practices
  • Identify and perform daily conservation tasks
  • Performing conservation assessments, stabilization treatments, and preservation work on a diverse range of textile materials
  • Preparing detailed conservation reports and collection rotation procedures
  • Dressing and mounting garments on custom mannequins for exhibition
  • Advising on sustainable preservation methods for both storage and exhibition environments
  • Monitoring environmental conditions and recommending improvements to collection care practices
  • Participating in exhibition preparation, installations, and special projects
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

  • Master's degree in Textile Conservation
  • Professional experience as a conservator within a museum or cultural institution is preferred
  • Strong knowledge of textile conservation practices and preventive conservation
  • Experience handling a wide range of textile materials and artifact types
  • Understanding of environmental impacts on collections and preservation standards
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Excellent attention to detail and organizational abilities
  • Experience working with a team and independently - the ability to develop effective working relationships
  • Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation

Knowledge of Prince, his artistic legacy, or his impact on fashion and culture is welcomed but not required.

Schedule

Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, working hours, including some weekends, evenings, holidays, and overtime as required based on the event schedule. Mandatory staffing for the Prince Celebration event in June.

Physical Requirements

The primary physical requirements of the Museum Conservator include:

  • Ability to sit or stand for extended periods
  • Comfortable handling and moving collection storage materials
  • Strong manual dexterity and attention to detail
  • Excellent vision or corrected vision
  • Ability to work with garments and mannequins in exhibition settings
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds
  • Ability to transport mannequins and exhibit materials between workspaces and exhibition areas
Why Join Paisley Park?

Paisley Park is more than a museum-it is a living celebration of Prince's artistry, innovation, and cultural impact. This is an opportunity to work with an extraordinary collection in a place where creativity, preservation, and storytelling come together every day.

  • Work with a globally recognized collection of fashion and performance artifacts
  • Contribute to the preservation of an internationally significant cultural legacy
  • Collaborate with passionate museum, collections, and exhibition professionals
  • Enjoy a dynamic environment where creativity and history intersect every day

Comprehensive Benefits Package Includes:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Pet insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Complimentary tour tickets
  • Employee discounts

Note: As Prince was a pescatarian, Paisley Park is a pescatarian food environment. Eggs, fish, and cheese are fine; beef, pork, chicken, and other meats can be eaten in your car, or you may take meals off-site.

Chanhassen, MN, USA, Hourly, Full-Time

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