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Museum Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KidSTREAM

Museum Educator (Part Time)

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Working under the guidance of the Education Supervisor, this role engages guests on the museum floor, and facilitates hands-on STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, and Math ...

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Museum Scientist information

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How much do museum scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for museum scientist in the United States is $90,961.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a museum scientist do?

A Museum Scientist is responsible for researching, preserving, and managing museum collections, which may include artifacts, specimens, or artworks. They often work behind the scenes to identify, catalog, and study objects, ensuring their proper care and storage. Museum Scientists may also develop exhibitions, conduct scientific analysis, and support educational programs, contributing to the museum's mission of public engagement and scholarship.

What are some common challenges museum scientists face when managing and preserving collections?

Museum Scientists often encounter challenges such as preventing deterioration of artifacts due to environmental factors like humidity, light, and pests. Balancing public access with the need for preservation can also be complex, as frequent handling or display may increase risks. Additionally, staying current with advancements in conservation methods and technology is essential, requiring ongoing learning and collaboration with other specialists. Effective communication with curators, conservators, and educators is key to ensuring collections are both protected and accessible for research and public engagement.

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

To thrive as a Museum Scientist, you need a strong background in scientific research, specimen curation, and a relevant degree in fields such as biology, geology, or chemistry. Familiarity with collection management systems, digitization tools, and laboratory equipment is often required, alongside certifications in collections care or conservation. Excellent attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong communication skills help you effectively manage collections and share findings with both academic and public audiences. These skills ensure the preservation, accurate documentation, and accessibility of museum collections for education and research.

What is the difference between Museum Scientist vs Museum Curator?

AspectMuseum ScientistMuseum Curator
Required CredentialsBachelor’s or Master’s in Museum Studies, Archaeology, or related fields; often requires research experienceBachelor’s or Master’s in Museum Studies, Art History, or related fields; may require curatorial experience
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, conservation labs, fieldwork, and exhibit developmentExhibition planning, collection management, public engagement, and educational programs
Employer & Industry UsageMuseums, research institutions, conservation labsMuseums, galleries, cultural institutions

While both roles work within museums, a Museum Scientist primarily focuses on research, conservation, and scientific analysis of collections, whereas a Museum Curator manages collections, develops exhibits, and engages with the public. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path within the museum industry.

How do you become a museum scientist?

To become a museum scientist, typically a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as biology, geology, or anthropology is required, often followed by a master's or doctoral degree for advanced positions. Gaining experience through internships, research, or volunteering in museums or related institutions is also important, along with developing skills in specimen analysis, conservation, and data management.

What cities are hiring for Museum Scientist jobs?

Cities with the most Museum Scientist job openings:

What states have the most Museum Scientist jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Museum Scientist jobs?

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

Museum Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Scientist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,961 per year, or $43.7 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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