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Museum Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Museum Aide-Extra Help

Yuba City, CA · On-site

$36K - $50K/yr

Research information when requested. May utilize objects, photographs, and reference material from the Museum's collections to conduct research and prepare for review. * May participate in ...

Museum Director

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$95K/yr

... research, and publications. Assumes overall responsibility for the museum's community relations. Essential Duties Manages the museum operation, development, coordination, and promotion of museum ...

Administration Management

Campus, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

This position requires regular onsite presence at the Natural History Museum of Utah on the Research Park campus of the University of Utah in Salt Lake City and occasional travel for professional ...

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How much do museum research jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 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.

Museum Educator (Part-Time, Onsite)

North Adams, MA • On-site

$19.50/hr

Part-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Description:

This part-time position is expected to work approximately 10–15 hours per week (not to exceed 29 hours), including at least one weekend shift. 


The Museum Educator facilitates museum experiences for visitors of all ages with the goals of building confidence in looking at contemporary art, providing tools for engaging with a wide range of visual and performing arts practices, and forging connections between visitors, the works of art on view, the history of art, and related contemporary topics. 

This position requires the ability to work a flexible schedule, with availability on weekends and holidays, and for events, programs, and festivals, including those after museum hours. 


Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Museum Educators lead a variety of museum-wide tours for visitors of all ages which include interactive discussions and hands-on art-making activities. 
  • Engages visitors in Kidspace through conversations around the artwork, providing art-making activities at the ArtBar, and assisting with in-person public programming. 
  • Assists with art supply inventory, organization, and upkeep of Kidspace and the ArtBar. 
  • Schedules and group guided visits and school partnership tours will be coordinated collaboratively with the Public Programs and Visitor Experience Department. 
  • In collaboration with the Director of Public Programs, Senior Manager of Education and Family Programs, and the Visitor Experience Department, the Museum Educator assists with developing tour outlines and related curricula activities and art projects.
  • Completion of initial training. 
  • Commitment of a minimum of 8 shifts per month. 
  • Participation in ongoing monthly meetings and training sessions.
  • This job description is intended to describe the general nature of the role and the work being performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities. The Museum Educator may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities, as needed. 
Requirements:
  • The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree preferred or equivalent experience in education, art administration, art history, or the performing arts.
  • This is an entry-level position. 
  • At least 1 year work experience is preferred. 
  • Preference will be given to candidates that can make a commitment to the job for a minimum of one year. 
  • Experience teaching within museum settings and/or fluency in Spanish is a plus. ? The candidate should be skilled as an effective communicator and have strong writing skills. 
  • Able to work independently and as a team player 
  • Committed to DEAI (diversity, equity, accessibility, inclusion) work and fostering a sense of belonging, dignity, and justice for all visitors. 
  • Enthusiasm for and experience working with people in an educational or customer service environment. 
  • Ideally, has an outgoing, positive personality with a knack for connecting with people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. 
  • Willing and able to adjust tours and programming based on attendees’ needs. 

Work Conditions:

  • The majority of the workday is spent indoors, but occasional special events, exhibitions, and/or festivals may require working outdoors and in inclement weather.
  • This position may require extended hours, including occasional nights and weekends. The schedule will be determined by the manager. 
  • Museum Educators are expected to work at least one weekend shift per week, though schedules vary and time-off requests are accommodated when possible. 

Physical Requirements:

  • Must be able to sit, stand, and move for distances across the museum. This role is able to accommodate a wheelchair. 
  • Must be able to wear PPE as necessary. 
  • People of all abilities are encouraged to apply. 
  • This position is based on site at MASS MoCA’s North Adams campus; regular in-person attendance is required. 

As defined by the National Labor Relations Act, this position is part of the bargaining unit for UAW Local 2110


Compensation and Benefits: 

  • This is a non-exempt position with an hourly rate of $19.50
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Roth 401(k) option
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) 
  • Massachusetts Earned Sick Time 
  • Emergency Assistance Fund (LemonAid)
  • Retirement planning support
  • Professional development reimbursement
  • Educational leave
  • Reciprocal Organization of Associated Museums (ROAM)
  • Student loan repayment assistance
  • Discounts at Gift Shop and R&D Store
  • Staff appreciation social events year-round

Application Process: Interested candidates should apply online with a resume and cover letter. The application also includes a few brief questions to help us better understand your experience and interest in the role. Incomplete applications—including those missing the requested documents—may not be fully considered.

About MASS MoCA:

MASS MoCA is a vibrant non-collecting art museum with approximately 300,000 square feet of exhibition space dedicated to visual art and projects by contemporary artists. Formerly a 19th century factory, these exhibition spaces are unconventional, vast, soaring galleries spanning multiple buildings. Half of that space is dedicated to rotating 10–16 month exhibitions of which we present 4 to 6 large-scale exhibitions per year, along with smaller projects and commissions. The additional space is dedicated to long-term exhibitions in conjunction with artists, estates, and collections that run from 10 months to 25 years. MASS MoCA frequently works directly with artists on the fabrication of new commissions and large-scale site-specific installations. 


MASS MoCA was founded in 1999, not only as a contemporary art museum and performing arts venue, but also as a creative campus with a regional, national and global impact. MASS MoCA is one of the world's liveliest centers for making and enjoying today's most evocative art. With vast galleries and a stunning collection of indoor and outdoor performing arts venues, MASS MoCA is able to embrace all forms of art: music, sculpture, dance, film, painting, photography, theater, and new, boundary-crossing works of art that defy easy classification. From its beginnings as the major textile mill Arnold Print Works in the mid-19th century, to its days as the Sprague Electric Company in the mid-20th century, to its current iteration as a globally renowned contemporary art museum and fabrication center, the 24-acre MASS MoCA campus has a rich history of serving as the economic engine of the city of North Adams and the surrounding region.