ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Museum Work Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SIMON WIESENTHAL CENTER

Museum Associate

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$20.60/hr

They welcome guests to the museum, work museum programs and events, sell merchandise and tickets, and answer general inquiries about the museum. Museum Associates assist with the daily operations of ...

Ladgov Corporation

Museum Curator

Port Hueneme, CA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

No work on Federal holidays when the museum is closed Place of Performance U.S. Navy Seabee Museum Naval Base Ventura County Building 100 3201 N. Ventura Road Port Hueneme, CA 93043 Position Summary ...

Ladgov Corporation

Museum Curator

Port Hueneme, CA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

No work on Federal holidays when the museum is closed Place of Performance U.S. Navy Seabee Museum Naval Base Ventura County Building 100 3201 N. Ventura Road Port Hueneme, CA 93043 Position Summary ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMuseum Work JobsMuseum Work Jobs in California

Museum Work information

What is museum work?

Museum workers are professionals who manage, preserve, and display collections of historical, artistic, or scientific items. Their roles can include curating exhibits, educating visitors, conserving artifacts, and handling administrative duties. Museum staff may include curators, educators, conservators, registrars, and visitor services personnel. Each plays a vital role in ensuring that the museum operates smoothly and fulfills its mission to educate and inspire the public.

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

To thrive in museum work, you typically need a background in art history, museum studies, or a related field, along with strong research and organizational skills. Familiarity with collection management systems, digital cataloging tools, and sometimes certifications in conservation or curation are often required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and a passion for education help professionals engage visitors and collaborate with colleagues. These skills ensure the proper care, documentation, and presentation of collections, fostering public engagement and preserving cultural heritage.

What are some common challenges faced by museum professionals in balancing preservation with public engagement?

Museum professionals often navigate the challenge of safeguarding valuable collections while making them accessible and engaging to the public. This can involve implementing strict handling and environmental protocols, while still designing interactive or visually appealing exhibits. Balancing educational programming, visitor experience, and conservation efforts requires close collaboration between curators, educators, conservators, and operations staff. Staying current with technology and accessibility standards also adds complexity to the role, but offers opportunities for creative solutions and professional growth.

What is the difference between Museum Work vs Museum Education Coordinator?

AspectMuseum WorkMuseum Education Coordinator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require a degree in history, art, or related fieldsBachelor's degree in education, history, or museum studies; often requires experience in education or public programming
Work EnvironmentMuseums, galleries, or cultural institutions; involves public interaction, exhibit setup, and maintenanceEducational settings within museums; focuses on developing and delivering educational programs and tours
Employer & Industry UsageMuseums, historical sites, cultural institutionsMuseums, educational organizations, cultural institutions

While both roles are integral to museums, Museum Work generally involves hands-on tasks like exhibit maintenance and visitor assistance, whereas Museum Education Coordinators focus on creating and managing educational programs for visitors. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target their applications effectively.

How do I get to work in a museum?

To work in a museum, you should research available positions and submit applications through museum websites or job boards. Relevant skills include knowledge of art, history, or science, and often a degree or experience in a related field. Networking and volunteering can also help gain experience and connections in the museum industry.

What are the easiest museum jobs to get?

Entry-level museum jobs such as museum attendants, gallery assistants, or visitor services staff are generally the easiest to obtain, often requiring minimal prior experience and sometimes on-the-job training. These roles typically involve customer service, ticketing, or basic exhibit support, making them accessible for those new to museum work.

What careers are there in museum work?

Careers in museum work include roles such as curators, collections managers, conservators, education coordinators, exhibit designers, and museum administrators. These positions often require knowledge of art, history, or science, along with skills in research, organization, and public engagement.

What do I need to do to work at a museum?

To work at a museum, you typically need relevant education such as a degree in history, art, or museum studies, along with experience in customer service, curation, or education. Many roles require strong communication skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with museum collections or exhibit management. Some positions may also require certifications or specialized training depending on the role.
Museum Work jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Work job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 15% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 20% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Museum Associate

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

SIMON WIESENTHAL CENTER
51 - 200 employees
Learn more about SIMON WIESENTHAL CENTERexternal

$20.60/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Key responsibilities

  • Welcome guests to the museum and provide information about the museum's programs and services.

  • Staff the ticket desk, process payments, and support sales at the bookstore.

  • Lead tours of the museum's permanent and special exhibits and assist with special projects and events.

Job description

About us: 

Simon Wiesenthal Center (SWC) is a global Jewish human rights organization that confronts anti-Semitism and hate, defends the safety of Israel and Jews worldwide, and teaches the lessons of the Holocaust through awareness, advocacy, justice, education, and its Museums of Tolerance. With a constituency of over 400,000 member families since its founding in 1977, the SWC has an international footprint through its Museums of Tolerance, Moriah Films, and the Digital Terrorism + Hate Project.  

Headquartered in Los Angeles, it maintains operations in New York, Chicago, Miami, Toronto, Paris, Berlin, Jerusalem, and Buenos Aires. It is an accredited Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) at the United Nations, UNESCO, the Organization of American States, the Latin American Parliament, and the Council of Europe and maintains relationships with the highest levels of governments throughout the world.  

In 1993, the Center opened the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles to worldwide acclaim. The Museum has served as the Center’s flagship educational arm, challenging visitors to confront bigotry and racism, and to understand the Holocaust in both historical and contemporary contexts. In addition, the Center developed Moriah Media to produce theatrical documentaries to educate global audiences. Moriah has produced 17 documentaries to date, two of which have received the Academy Award for best feature documentary, The Long Way Home and Genocide. 

About the role:  

The Museum Associate is one of the primary staff team members to interface with the museum guests. They welcome guests to the museum, work museum programs and events, sell merchandise and tickets, and answer general inquiries about the museum. Museum Associates assist with the daily operations of the museum, including guest relations, group tours, sales, and special events.  

About you: 

You are curious, collaborative, a great multi-tasker and have excellent customer service abilities.  This position will report to the Floor Coordinators of the Museum of Tolerance and is based in Los Angeles. 

Responsibilities: 

  • Demonstrate knowledge of and effectively communicate and promote the Museum of Tolerance’s programs and services 
  • Staff the ticket desk including on-site and telephone ticket sales  
  • Support the bookstore as sales associate 
  • Lead tours in the MOT permanent exhibits and special exhibitions 
  • Work with group-reservations coordinator to process payments for schools and other groups 
  • Facilitate the safe conduct of student and other groups to and from their buses in coordination with security 
  • Assist with special projects and events, including support of Special Events Coordinator 
  • Communicate pertinent information regarding museum logistics, professionally handle any issues with programs or visitors  
  • Monitor the flow of all people throughout the museum  

Experience and Skills: 

  • 2+ years’ experience in the customer service industry, preferably at museums or other cultural institutions 
  • Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal skills  
  • Highly motivated, shows initiative, and the ability to problem solve  
  • Ability to prioritize and multi-task; think creatively and strategically  
  • Ability to communicate effectively in public  
  • High degree of flexibility, can adapt easily to changing environments and tasks  

Our Benefits: 

We value our people and offer a collaborative and engaging culture. As a SWC employee, you will enjoy work/life balance, generous time off and comprehensive benefits and programs.  The Simon Wiesenthal Center embraces inclusivity and values our diverse community. We are committed to building a team based on qualifications, merit and business need. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. 

Apply