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Museum Research Assistant Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Tour Guide

Chanhassen, MN · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

Research information as required * Effectively manage both large and small groups of people ... Conduct yourself professionally amongst guests and staff alike * Assist guests in all types of ...

Tour Guide

Chanhassen, MN · On-site

$17/hr

Research information as required * Effectively manage both large and small groups of people ... Conduct yourself professionally amongst guests and staff alike * Assist guests in all types of ...

Museum Research Assistant information

See Minnesota salary details

$8

$22

$44

How much do museum research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum research assistant in Minnesota is $22.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $25.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a museum research assistant?

A Museum Research Assistant supports research projects within a museum by gathering, analyzing, and organizing historical or cultural data. They assist curators and researchers in cataloging artifacts, preparing exhibitions, and maintaining accurate documentation. Duties may also involve archival research, data entry, and helping with public engagement initiatives. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a background in history, anthropology, or museum studies are often required.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a museum research assistant?

Museum Research Assistants commonly spend their days conducting object or exhibit research, cataloguing artifacts, updating digital records, and assisting with exhibition planning. They may also help prepare research materials, respond to scholarly inquiries, and support curators in organizing information for publications or educational programs. Collaboration with curators, conservators, and education staff is frequent, ensuring all research aligns with the museum’s goals and public programming. This multifaceted role can be both independent and team-oriented, offering variety and continuous learning opportunities for those passionate about museum work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the museum research assistant position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Museum Research Assistant, you need a strong background in art history, anthropology, or a related field, with experience in research methods and data analysis. Familiarity with cataloguing software, digital archives, and collection management systems is often required, along with relevant certifications in archival practices being a plus. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and strong written and verbal communication abilities are excellent soft skills for this position. These competencies ensure precise research, effective management of collections, and successful collaboration with curators and other museum staff.

How much does a Museum Research Assistant make?

The average salary for a Museum Research Assistant is around $30,000 to $45,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or advanced degrees can earn higher wages. Many roles also offer opportunities for part-time work or internships with lower pay.

How much does a museum research assistant get paid?

Museum research assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, education, and the institution. Salaries can vary based on location, with full-time positions offering annual salaries generally ranging from $25,000 to $45,000. Some roles may also include benefits such as access to museum resources and opportunities for professional development.

How to become a museum research assistant?

To become a museum research assistant, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in history, archaeology, anthropology, or a related field. Relevant skills include research, data analysis, and familiarity with museum collections or archival tools; internships or volunteer experience can also improve prospects. Some positions may require knowledge of specific software or research methodologies.

What are the most commonly searched types of Museum Research jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Museum Research jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Museum Research Assistant jobs in Minnesota?

For Museum Research Assistant jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Museum Research Assistant jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Museum Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Museum Research Assistant job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,494 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

American Museum of Asmat Art Undergraduate Assistant

Saint Paul, MN • On-site


University of St Thomas
Education • 1 - 5K employees

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

169th of 627 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Respectful managers


$18/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

OVERVIEW
JOB TITLE: American Museum of Asmat Art Undergraduate Assistant - 2 positions
LOCATION: St. Paul and Minneapolis Campuses
PAY RATE: $18.00 per hour
HOURS: 100 hours for each position (September-May)
GENERAL INFORMATION:
  • The American Museum of Asmat Art is on the second floor of the Anderson Student Center and showcases art from southwestern New Guinea (West Papua).
  • This position is for an undergraduate student with experience in Pacific art, art history, or museum studies.
  • The position is flexible, but requires some daytime availability Monday-Friday.
  • Assistant must check their email daily and promptly respond to messages from the director.

Please submit the following by September 4, 2026:
Applicants should provide their availability. (e.g. "I can work between 10-4pm on T/Th" -or- "I'm available between 10-12:30pm on W/F") as well as the following:
  • CV/Resume
  • Cover Letter

JOB SUMMARY:
  • Work with the director to develop exhibitions and museum programming.
  • Write labels and create other didactic materials for physical displays and digital projects.
  • Create content for AMAA social media platforms.
  • Conduct research on recently donated archival materials.
  • Manage and help with organizing the AMAA storage facility.
  • Assist with the processing and accessioning of new donations.
  • Assist with physical aspects of setting up and taking down exhibitions. This includes lifting, safely handling, packing, and transporting materials between the museum in St. Paul and Minneapolis storage facility.
  • Prepare art for upcoming exhibitions by conducting light preservation work such as removing dust, spider webs, and insect debris.
  • Design and create mounts for AMAA objects.
  • Photograph objects and monitor the physical condition of art on display and in storage.
  • Use Collector Systems (departmental collections database) to research and locate objects.
  • Provide quality AMAA tours and serve as a gallery attendant on rare occasions when shifts are open.
  • Develop museum programming and work with student groups on campus.

QUALIFICATIONS
Required:
  • Self-motivation, positive attitude, and interest in other cultures.
  • Ability to multitask and work on a range of projects.
  • Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Ability to collaborate with others.

Preferred:
  • Familiarity with Asmat culture and/or the American Museum of Asmat Art.
  • Experience handling and working with art objects.
  • Familiarity with collection management databases.

ELIGIBILITY:
To be eligible for student employment, St. Thomas students must be degree seeking at the undergraduate, graduate or doctoral levels. Students must be actively enrolled at least part-time in courses for credit. For further information on eligibility, please see the Student Employee Toolkit on One StThomas.
The University of St. Thomas is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.


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