1

Museum Installation Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

... installing exhibitions. Additionally, the Fellow will receive training in TMS (The Museum System), the collections management database. The Fellow will complete a research project in an area of ...

Produce installation designs for temporary exhibitions and collection galleries. * Work closely with the curator to bring their theoretical concept into a tangible design in keeping with museum ...

Senior Exhibition Designer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$112K - $120K/yr

Experience working in a team setting with museum staff, designers, and specialized service providers such as illustrators and artists * Experienced in managing production and installation of 3D and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Museum Installation information

See Boston, MA salary details

$15

$26

$36

How much do museum installation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum installation in Boston, MA is $26.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.68 and $28.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a museum installation job?

Museum installation jobs involve preparing and setting up exhibitions within museums or galleries. Professionals in this field are responsible for safely handling artworks or artifacts, constructing display cases, mounting pieces, and ensuring that each item is presented according to curatorial and conservation guidelines. Their work also includes coordinating with curators, registrars, and other staff to design layouts, manage lighting, and install signage. Museum installers play a critical role in the successful presentation and preservation of cultural and historical objects.

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

To thrive as a Museum Installation Specialist, you need expertise in art handling, spatial planning, and a good understanding of exhibition design, often supported by experience in museums or galleries and relevant safety training. Familiarity with tools such as lifts, hand tools, and hanging systems, as well as knowledge of climate control and conservation standards, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the safe, precise, and visually impactful presentation of artworks and exhibits.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in museum installation, and how can they be addressed?

Museum installation professionals often encounter challenges such as working within tight deadlines, handling delicate or valuable artifacts, and adapting to last-minute changes in exhibit design. Effective communication with curators, conservators, and exhibition designers is essential to ensure that installations meet both aesthetic and preservation standards. Staying organized, being detail-oriented, and maintaining flexibility can help address these challenges and contribute to successful exhibit openings.

What is the difference between Museum Installation vs Museum Curator?

AspectMuseum InstallationMuseum Curator
Required CredentialsTechnical training, art handling certificationsDegree in Museum Studies, Art History, or related field
Work EnvironmentPhysical setup areas, galleries, exhibition spacesOffice, collection storage, galleries, research areas
Employer & Industry UsageMuseums, galleries, exhibition companiesMuseums, cultural institutions, art organizations

While Museum Installation focuses on physically setting up and installing exhibits, Museum Curator involves managing collections, researching artworks, and planning exhibitions. Both roles are essential in the museum industry but differ in responsibilities and skill sets.

What are the easiest museum installation jobs to get?

Entry-level museum installation jobs such as assistant or preparator roles are generally the easiest to obtain, often requiring minimal experience and offering on-the-job training. These positions typically involve tasks like handling exhibits, setting up displays, and maintaining artifacts, making them accessible for those new to museum work or with basic technical skills.

What are popular job titles related to Museum Installation jobs in Boston, MA?

For Museum Installation jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Museum Installation jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Museum Installation jobs in Boston, MA are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Museum Installation jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Museum Installation job openings:

Infographic showing various Museum Installation job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 9% Temporary. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $54,190 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

$75K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Description


Department:  Collections

Reports to:  William and Lia Poorvu Curator of the Collection 

Type of Position: Full-time, Exempt, Maximum Five-Year Term 

Salary Range:   $75,000 - $85,000 depending on experience


This is an onsite, Boston-based position. Local candidates strongly preferred. No agencies, please.


Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Core Values


Isabella Stewart Gardner so deeply believed that art had the power to change lives that she built a beautiful, personal, and immersive Museum "for the education and enjoyment of the public forever." Today the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum (ISGM) is a living embodiment of her bold vision; it's a dynamic place where ideas and creativity in all its forms inspire visitors. We strive to tell new stories and challenge assumptions through exhibitions, music, programs, and performances and by engaging the perspectives and collaboration of our communities.


The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum seeks to connect past with present, develop and sustain mutually beneficial partnerships with local communities and artists, broaden our audiences, and generate opportunities for creativity. We are firmly committed to a welcoming work culture and visitor experience. Our five-year strategic plan outlines the Museum's core values, goals, and initiatives that serve as a renewal of Isabella's promise to serve the public and be a resource for the city.


Position Summary


The Assistant Curator of the Collection is responsible for developing exhibitions, researching, managing, and implementing curatorial aspects of exhibitions and their related publications, interpretation, and materials. They must propose and execute at least one major exhibition in the course of their five-year term. They are also responsible for conducting research on the permanent collection and identifying new narratives and stories related to objects within their area of expertise. 


This is a grant-funded position for a maximum of five years, dedicated to reevaluating the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum's collection through the lens of religion and spirituality. The successful candidate may have expertise in any geographic or chronological area represented in the collection. Preference will be given to candidates with scholarly or curatorial experience in projects related to religion and spirituality. Their exhibition and collections-based projects will engage with this particular line of inquiry. The Gardner Museum values collaboration with internal and external stakeholders and the successful candidate will undertake these projects in consultation with outside experts, artists, and community thought leaders. 


 Responsibilities 

  • Propose and execute at least one special exhibition focused on a religious or spiritual topic.
  • Contribute to the conceptualization and planning of public programs and permanent collection projects with spiritual or religious themes.
  • Participate in curatorial decisions in oversight of the collection and programs, including in consultation with conservation.
  • Write texts for the presentation of the collection and exhibitions.
  • Present lectures and public talks.
  • Research on the collection in support of exhibitions, public programs, and publications.
  • Other duties as assigned by the William and Lia Poorvu Curator of the Collection.

Requirements


Required

  • Minimum of three years of experience in a museum curatorial position.
  • Ph.D. preferred, but equivalent experience acceptable; advanced knowledge in a relevant field of art history, as well as general art historical knowledge.
  • Has originated at least one special exhibition or permanent collection installation, ideally with religious themes or avenues of inquiry. 
  • Excellent project management and organizational skills
  • An original and flexible thinker who can work across departments; has the ability to conceptualize with other creative individuals.
  • Strong collaborative skills and ability to work across disciplines.
  • Curiosity and interest in other areas of creativity at the Museum, including contemporary art, music, landscape, and education.
  • Excellent writing skills.
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and team skills; strong public speaking and teaching ability, with an interest in improving in these areas
  • Demonstrated commitment to creating welcoming, inclusive, and accessible experiences for diverse audiences.
  • Ability to work with all levels of the Museum and the professional Museum community, including Board members, volunteers, and supporters.
  • Highest level of integrity.

Equal Opportunity Employer


The Museum is committed to affording equal opportunity to qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, age (40 or older), disability, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetic information, pregnancy, childbirth or related conditions, ancestry, or status as a veteran. Consistent with our core values and our founder's legacy, the Museum is dedicated to building a work community that fosters collaboration, excellence, belonging, and a diversity of perspectives and experience.


Request an Accommodation


Applicants with disabilities who are unable to access ISGM's online application system fully may contact us at hr@isgm.org for assistance with a reasonable accommodation.