ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Museum Researcher 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

$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 ...

Sutter County, CA

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsTourism JobsVisitor Attraction JobsMuseum Technician JobsMuseum Researcher Jobs

Museum Researcher information

See salary details

$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do museum researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for museum researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a museum researcher?

Museum researchers are professionals who study, analyze, and interpret objects and collections within museums. They often conduct original research to uncover the historical, scientific, or cultural significance of artifacts, helping to create exhibits, publications, and educational programs. Their work supports the museum's mission to educate the public and preserve cultural heritage, and may involve collaboration with other experts, fieldwork, and publishing scholarly articles.

How does a museum researcher typically collaborate with curators and other museum staff on exhibition projects?

Museum Researchers play a vital role in exhibition development by working closely with curators, educators, and collections managers. They contribute their expertise by researching the provenance, historical context, and significance of artifacts, providing accurate information that shapes exhibition narratives. Collaboration often involves regular meetings to share findings, suggest interpretive angles, and ensure all presented materials are both engaging and academically rigorous. This teamwork ensures that exhibitions are both educational and accessible to diverse audiences.

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 academic background in history, art, archaeology, or a related field, often supported by advanced degrees and research experience. Familiarity with collection management systems, digital archives, and research databases is typically required, along with knowledge of cataloging standards. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and excellent written and verbal communication skills set candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure the accurate documentation, interpretation, and dissemination of information that supports museum exhibitions and public engagement.

What is the difference between Museum Researcher vs Museum Curator?

AspectMuseum ResearcherMuseum Curator
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in History, Archaeology, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's, often with specialization; sometimes requires experience in curation
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, archives, museums, field sitesMuseum galleries, storage, administrative offices
Employer & Industry UsageMuseums, research institutions, universitiesMuseums, cultural institutions, galleries
Primary FocusConducting research, analyzing artifacts, producing scholarly workManaging collections, developing exhibits, overseeing displays

The main difference between a Museum Researcher and a Museum Curator lies in their focus. Museum Researchers primarily conduct research and analyze artifacts, while Museum Curators manage collections and develop exhibits. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but serve different functions within a 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. Salaries can vary based on location, specialization, and whether the role is full-time or part-time, with advanced degrees often leading to higher pay.

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 databases; internships or volunteer work can also provide valuable experience. Strong communication skills and knowledge of specific subject areas enhance job prospects in this field.

What cities are hiring for Museum Researcher jobs?

Cities with the most Museum Researcher job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Museum Researcher jobs?

The top employers for Museum Researcher jobs are:

What states have the most Museum Researcher jobs?

States with the most job openings for Museum Researcher jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Museum Researcher jobs?

For Museum Researcher jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Museum Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Researcher job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Anthropology - Museum Curator, CFS Professional Faculty

Provo, UT • On-site

Brigham Young University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Brigham Young Universityexternal

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.

What Brigham Young University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply