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Museum Manager Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Brown University

Collections Assistant

Providence, RI · On-site

S. degree in Museum Studies, Anthropology, Archaeology, Art History, or related field or equivalent experience; and at least one year's experience in a professional collection management or ...

Confluent Health

Physical Therapist

Woonsocket, RI · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

The city features historic mill buildings, museums like the Museum of Work & Culture, performing ... Using exercises, stretching, equipment, and hands-on manual therapy to manage patients' pain ...

Auberge Collection

Kitchen Supervisor

Newport, RI · On-site

Brimming with alluring eccentricities, the mansion has been meticulously restored to its glory, boasting elegant fireplaces and museum-quality artwork in the welcoming lobby entrance, Mezzanine and ...

Auberge Collection

Kitchen Supervisor

Newport, RI

Brimming with alluring eccentricities, the mansion has been meticulously restored to its glory, boasting elegant fireplaces and museum-quality artwork in the welcoming lobby entrance, Mezzanine and ...

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All JobsMuseum JobsMuseum Manager JobsMuseum Manager Jobs in Rhode Island

Museum Manager information

See Rhode Island salary details

$5

$18

$26

How much do museum manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum manager in Rhode Island is $18.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.13 and $18.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To excel as a Museum Manager, you need a background in museum studies, art history, or a related field, along with experience in collections management and exhibition planning. Familiarity with collection management software, budgeting tools, and compliance with museum standards is typically required. Leadership, strong organizational skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing staff, engaging the public, and building partnerships. These competencies ensure the museum's operations run smoothly, its collections are preserved, and its mission is successfully promoted to diverse audiences.

What are some common challenges faced by a museum manager, and how can they be addressed?

Museum Managers often face challenges such as balancing budget constraints with the need to deliver engaging exhibitions and programs. They must also ensure collections are preserved and accessible to the public while complying with regulatory standards. Effective communication and collaboration with curators, educators, and administrative staff are essential for successful project execution. Staying adaptable and proactive in seeking grant opportunities, community partnerships, and innovative visitor experiences can help address these challenges and support the museum's mission.

What is the difference between Museum Manager vs Curator?

AspectMuseum ManagerCurator
Primary RoleOversees museum operations, staff, and budgetsDevelops exhibits, conducts research, and manages collections
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in museum studies, management, or related field; experience in administrationBachelor's or master's in art history, archaeology, or related field; specialized knowledge
Work EnvironmentAdministrative offices, museum floors, staff meetingsExhibit development areas, collections storage, research spaces
Employer & Industry UsageFound in museums, cultural institutions, historical sitesPrimarily in museums, galleries, and research institutions

While both roles are essential in museums, a Museum Manager focuses on overall operations and administration, whereas a Curator specializes in collections, research, and exhibit development. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How to get into museum management?

To become a museum manager, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in museum studies, history, art, or a related field, along with experience in museum operations or curation. Developing skills in leadership, budgeting, and public engagement, as well as gaining experience through internships or entry-level roles, can help advance into management positions. Some roles may require a master's degree or professional certification in museum management or related areas.

What does a museum manager do?

A museum manager oversees the daily operations of a museum, including staff management, budgeting, and ensuring the preservation and display of collections. They coordinate exhibits, develop educational programs, and ensure compliance with safety and conservation standards, often using management software and possessing relevant certifications. Their role involves leadership, organization, and a strong understanding of museum policies and procedures.

What are the most commonly searched types of Museum jobs in Rhode Island?

The most popular types of Museum jobs in Rhode Island are:

What are popular job titles related to Museum Manager jobs in Rhode Island?

For Museum Manager jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Museum Manager jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Museum Manager jobs in Rhode Island are:

Museum Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Manager job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,633 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Collections Assistant

Brown University

Providence, RI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

Brown University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

170th of 625 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Job Description:
About Brown:
Brown University is a leading research university distinct for its student-centered learning and deep sense of purpose. Our students, faculty and staff are driven by the idea that their work will have an impact in the world.
Brown University offers a flexible work/life balance; summer hours, winter break and a comprehensive Benefits package including time off, annual paid holidays; benefits offerings including health, dental, vision, tuition assistance, retirement, wellness, employee discounts and more. To learn about Brown University's benefits, visit the University Human Resources web page for further information.
About the Opportunity:
The Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology is Brown University's teaching and research museum. A resource across the university, we inspire creative and critical thinking about culture by fostering interdisciplinary understanding of the material world.
Responsibilities:
The Collections Assistant reports to the Collections Manager/Registrar and assists the collections team to document, assess, rehouse, pack/unpack, and track archaeological, ethnographic, and archival collections. This work supports the move of HMA collections from Bristol, RI to a new location in Providence, RI, and routine use of objects and collections in exhibitions, teaching, research, and loans.
This position is a full-time term position under the Transforming the Haffenreffer Museum grant project funded by the Mellon Foundation, which is scheduled to end on August 31, 2027.
Qualifications:
Education:
  • The successful candidate will have a B.A./B.S. degree in Museum Studies, Anthropology, Archaeology, Art History, or related field or equivalent experience; and at least one year's experience in a professional collection management or registration setting.

Experience:
  • Basic knowledge of preventive conservation strategies for cultural property in storage, on exhibit, in transit, or in use.
  • Experience using a collection management system required. Knowledge of MuseumPlusRia preferred.

Job Competencies
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to handle works of art, use simple hand tools, meet deadlines.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to comfortably use equipment such as moveable shelving and step ladders.
  • Awareness of issues of cultural sensitivity surrounding cultural heritage and collections.

Salary Grade:
7
Additional Information:
All applicants are asked to submit a cover letter and resume.
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.
Benefits of Working at Brown:
Please review additional information on the Benefits of Working at Brown.
Recruiting Start Date:
2026-08-18
Job Posting Title:
Collections Assistant
Department:
Haffenreffer Museum
Grade:
Grade 7
Worker Type:
Employee
Worker Sub-Type:
Fixed Term (Fixed Term)
Time Type:
Full time
Scheduled Weekly Hours:
37.5
Position Work Location:
Onsite
Submission Guidelines:
The designated Position Work Location for each position determines the approved modality of work. Positions are classified based on the operational and business needs of the department and may be designated as on-site, hybrid, or remote.
Employees with a designated position work location as remote must reside and perform their work in a state where Brown University is registered to do business. Brown University is a registered employer in the following states: Rhode Island, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Washington, D.C.
Please note that to be considered for a staff position at Brown University, you must submit a separate application for each position you wish to be considered for. Applications are reviewed only for the specific position to which they are submitted and are not automatically considered for future openings.
This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
Still Have Questions?
If you have any questions you may contact employment@brown.edu.
Brown is an E-Verify Employer.
EEO Statement:
Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person's race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, in the administration of its policies, programs, and activities. The University recognizes and rewards individuals on the basis of qualifications and performance. The University maintains certain affirmative action programs in compliance with applicable law.

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