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Museum Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Smithsonian Institution

Museum Specialist

Chantilly, VA · On-site +1

$57K - $111K/yr

Summary The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex, with 21 museums and the National Zoo. This position is located in the National Air & Space Museum ...

Gaston County, NC

Museum Guide

Gastonia, NC · On-site

Provide guided tours/ gallery talks at the museum as assigned and scheduled by the Community Engagement Manager. * Assist staff in education programs, museum special events, and collection research ...

Benrey

IDGC Museum Curator

Appling, GA · On-site

$20/hr

Knowledge of proper maintenance, organization, and research of archival collections * A degree or experience in museum studies or a related field * Excellent communication and project management ...

Washington University of St. Louis

Aligns mission critical access to the Museum's collection to students, faculty, scholars, and researchers - both within the university and beyond. Coordinate outgoing loans from the permanent ...

Artinfoland

$80 - $100/hr

The RISD Museum, formerly the Museum of Art, Rhode Island School of Design, is the art museum of ... Conduct and record or publish research on objects in the collection * Work in collaboration with ...

The Pennsylvania State University

$15/hr

As a key element of Penn State's land-grant mission of teaching, research, and public service, the Museum is a vital and accessible cultural resource for Penn State's students, faculty, and scholars ...

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Museum Researcher information

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$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.

Museum Specialist

Sells, AZ

Home - Tohono O'odham Nation
See more jobs at Home - Tohono O'odham Nationexternal

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist in processing archival and artifact collections, including data entry and gathering information for reports and publications.

  • Support the development and installation of multi-media presentations, exhibitions, and museum-related activities.

  • Help plan and execute public programs, outreach activities, and assist with exhibition planning and museum events.

Job description

The position is located in [Topawa, AZ].

Position Summary:

Under general supervision, performs a variety of semi-technical activities to assist the curatorial divisions and administrative offices in connection with the operations and cultural programming for the Cultural Center and Museum.

The work is normally reviewed upon completion, with occasional spot checks while in process, to ensure accuracy, timeliness and conformance to established standards; major work tasks are covered by instructions or procedures and unusual situations are referred to a supervisor.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Works closely with elders, school children, members of the community, researchers, and other interested individuals and groups to help carry out the mission of Himdag Ki: Hek hu, Hemu, Im B I-Ha'ap, the Tohono O'odham Nation Cultural Center and Museum.
  • Processes archival and artifact collections, conduct data entry, gather information for use in educational and administrative reports, newsletters, and other types of publications and assist in the production of same.
  • Assists in multi-media presentations, exhibition development and installation, membership and other services, and other museum-related activities.
  • Provides assistance to a curatorial division(s) or administrative office(s) as assigned by the Museum Administrator, where he/she will perform a variety of tasks, including but not limited to the following:
  • Performs routine processing and data-entry of archival and artifact collections.
  • Assists in multi-media presentations to visitors, students, and others.
  • Assists in the planning and execution of public programs and public outreach.
  • Assists with activities related to exhibition planning and installation, artists' workshops and museum sponsored events, etc.
  • Assist in the administrative areas of information management, development, or public relations.
  • Performs any combination of the above.
  • Participate in cross-training to assist in the most effective operation of the Cultural Center and Museum.
  • Performs other job related duties as assigned and contributes to a team effort.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Knowledge of the Tohono O'odham culture, customs, and traditions.
  • Knowledge of applicable federal, state, tribal laws, regulations and requirements.
  • Knowledge of museum procedures.
  • Skill in operating various work-processing, spreadsheets, and database software.
  • Skill in providing superior customer service to external and internal customers.
  • Skill in detail and organizational skills.
  • Ability to multitask essential.
  • Ability to interact with different age groups.
  • Ability to communicate efficiently and effectively both verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to maintain privileged confidential information.
  • Ability to work independently and meet strict time lines.
  • Ability to work extended hours and various work schedules.
  • Ability to establish and maintain positive and effective working relationships with other employees and the general public.
  • Ability to travel within the interior/exterior boundaries of the Tohono O'odham Nation.

Minimum Qualifications:

Associate's Degree in Library Science, Anthropology or closely related field, and two years' work experience in a museum, cultural institution, or similar organization, or an equivalent combination of training, education, and work experience which demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of this position.

Licenses, Certifications, Special Requirements:

  • Upon recommendation for hire, a criminal background check is required to determine suitability for hire, including a 39-month Motor Vehicle Record.
  • May require possessing and maintaining a valid driver's license, (no DUIs or major traffic citations within the last three years).
  • If required, must meet the Tohono O'odham Nation tribal employer's insurance requirements to receive a driver's permit to operate program vehicles.
  • Based on the department's needs, incumbents may be required to demonstrate fluency in both the Tohono O'odham Language and English as a condition of employment.

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