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Museum Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Winterthur Museum

Museum Guide

Winterthur, DE · On-site

$16.47/hr

Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library encompasses an unrivaled museum of American decorative arts in ... research. Learning opportunities provided will focus on connecting a diverse audience ...

Campbell County, WY

Museum Curator

Gillette, WY · On-site

$70K/yr

This includes, but is not limited to, administrative and technical work in historical and collections research, conceptual design, construction, installation, and exhibit maintenance. The Museum ...

City of Mesa

Museum Curator

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$75K - $102K/yr

The Museum Curator develops, interprets, evaluates, communicates, and curates the collections of ... Conducts primary and/or secondary research in anthropology or related disciplines; oversee the ...

City of Mesa, AZ

Museum Curator

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$75K - $102K/yr

Conducts primary and/or secondary research in anthropology or related disciplines; oversee the ... Museum Studies, Anthropology, Biology, Geology, Paleontology, or a closely related area and ...

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How much do museum research jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum research in the United States is $26.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $33.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is museum research?

Museum research is the systematic investigation and study of objects, collections, and topics related to a museum's mission. This work helps uncover the historical, cultural, or scientific significance of artifacts and often informs exhibitions, educational programs, and publications. Museum researchers may analyze artifacts, study archives, collaborate with other experts, and publish findings to expand public knowledge and preserve heritage. Their work ensures that the information presented to the public is accurate and meaningful.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in museum research roles?

Professionals in museum research often encounter challenges such as managing large and sometimes incomplete collections, balancing research with curatorial responsibilities, and securing funding for in-depth projects. They also need to stay updated with current academic discourse while making their work accessible to the public. Collaboration with curators, educators, and external scholars is essential to ensure research supports exhibitions and educational programs, which can require strong communication and project management skills.

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

To thrive as a Museum Researcher, you need a solid background in art history, anthropology, or related disciplines, usually with an advanced degree such as a master's or PhD. Familiarity with research databases, collections management systems, and citation software is typically required, along with experience handling archival materials. Strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and excellent written and verbal communication skills are crucial for interpreting artifacts and sharing findings effectively. These skills enable researchers to contribute valuable insights, support curatorial decisions, and enhance educational outreach within the museum setting.

How much does a museum researcher make?

Museum researchers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and the institution. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with advanced degrees or specialized skills can earn higher salaries. Many museum researchers also work part-time or on contract, which can affect overall earnings.

How to become a museum researcher?

To become a museum researcher, typically a bachelor's degree in history, archaeology, anthropology, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or doctoral degree for advanced roles. Relevant skills include research, data analysis, and familiarity with museum collections and archival tools; internships or volunteer work can also provide valuable experience.

What does a museum researcher do?

A museum researcher investigates and analyzes artifacts, documents, and historical data to support exhibitions, publications, and educational programs. They often conduct fieldwork, catalog items, and collaborate with curators, using research skills and reference tools to contribute to the museum's knowledge base.

What jobs can you get with museum research?

Museum research skills can lead to roles such as museum curators, collections managers, archivists, research analysts, and education coordinators. These positions often require knowledge of historical or scientific subjects, research methodologies, and familiarity with collections management tools. Many roles involve analyzing artifacts, developing exhibits, and supporting educational programs.
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Infographic showing various Museum Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,835 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Anthropology - Museum Curator, CFS Professional Faculty

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Serve as a curator at the Museum of Peoples and Cultures.

  • Teach two courses each semester and one course during the Spring/Summer terms, including museum studies and archaeological field school.

  • Maintain an active research program that supports the museum's collections and aligns with faculty expertise.

Brigham Young University rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 89 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

339th of 631 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Job Title: Anthropology - Museum Curator, CFS Professional Faculty

Posting End Date: September 2, 2026
*NOTE: Last day to apply is Tuesday, September 1, 2026 at 11:59 PM MT

Position Start date: August 1, 2027


Required Degree: Ph.D. in Anthropology or closely related discipline.
The required degree must be completed by the start date.


Experience: The successful candidate will have a Ph.D. in Anthropology with an emphasis in archaeology or a closely related discipline by the beginning of the appointment. Preferred candidates will also have experience in museum research, teaching museum courses, and/or museum administration.


Duties/Expectations: The Department of Anthropology seeks applicants for a professional faculty position (open rank) in archaeology and museum studies to begin Fall 2027. The candidate will serve as a curator at the Museum of Peoples and Cultures and should have experience in teaching museum studies courses and be committed to mentoring student research. The successful candidate will be expected to teach two courses each semester and one course during the Spring/Summer terms. Assigned courses will include museum studies and archaeological field school, as well as introductory courses, archaeological method and theory, and courses within the candidate's geographical and theoretical areas of expertise.


The selected candidate will be expected to maintain an active research program that supports the collections of the Museum of Peoples and Cultures and complements the current expertise of our faculty (see anthropology.byu.edu). The Museum's collections number over 157,000 lots with regional strengths in the American Southwest, Mesoamerica, the Middle East, Polynesia, and the Andes. All areas of geographical and theoretical specialization will be considered.


United by our common primary identity as children of God, BYU values equal opportunity. We also value and embrace the variety of individual characteristics, life experiences and circumstances, perspectives, talents, and gifts of each member of the BYU community and the richness and strength they bring in helping create and support an environment of covenant belonging centered in Jesus Christ. Candidates with experience in and commitment to mentoring students from a variety of backgrounds are encouraged to apply.


Apply on or before September 1, 2026, to ensure consideration. Questions about this position may be directed to Dr. Michael Searcy, Department Chair, Department of Anthropology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602 or by email to msearcy@byu.edu.

Documents Required at the Time of Application: Please attach your updated curriculum vitae, cover letter and Mission Alignment Statement to the faculty application. Please include in your cover letter your qualifications for the position as well as your teaching and research interests. Please also include at least one example of scholarly work.


Note: Failure to attach the required documents may result in your application not being considered.

This position requires the successful candidate to relocate and/or reside in Utah for the duration of their employment.

MISSION ALIGNMENT STATEMENT INSTRUCTIONS

If you are a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints:

BYU is committed to hiring faculty members who enthusiastically embrace and energetically advance its unique mission. To this end, please include a one-page mission alignment statement as part of your application that addresses how you might, as a BYU faculty member: (1) live a life of loyalty to Jesus Christ and His restored Church and align yourself with doctrine and teachings declared by living prophets, seers, and revelators; (2) demonstrate intentionality in building faith in Jesus Christ and testimony of His restored gospel among students and others in the BYU community; and (3) teach your subject matter with the Spirit of God and strive to keep it "bathed in the light and color of the restored gospel" (Spencer W. Kimball).

If you are not a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints:

Applicants who are not members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints include a one-page mission alignment statement that describes understanding of and commitment to the Mission of Brigham Young University and the AIMS of a BYU Education.

EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS

All new employees who are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will be required to hold and be worthy to hold a current temple recommend.

All faculty are required to abide by the university's Honor Code and Dress &Grooming Standards. Preference is given to qualified candidates who are members in good standing of the affiliated church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Successful candidates are expected to support and contribute to the academic and religious missions of the university within the context of the principles and doctrine of the affiliated church.


EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

Brigham Young University is an equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

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