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Museum Work Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Portland Art Museum

Learning Guide I (On-Call)

Portland, OR · On-site

$16.80 - $17.81/hr

When you think of an art museum, you might picture paintings or sculptures. But art is so much more ... Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team * Dependable, punctual, and able to commit to a ...

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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.

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Museum Work jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Museum Work job openings:

Museum Work jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Work job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

European & American Art Post Graduate Museum Fellowship

Eugene, OR • On-site

University of Oregon
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about University of Oregonexternal

$38K - $40K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

University Of Oregon rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

339th of 631 rated colleges and universities

Job description

European & American Art Post Graduate Museum Fellowship
Job no: 536887
Work type: Officer of Administration
Location: Eugene, OR
Categories: Architecture/Art/Design, Arts/Theater/Museum
Department: Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art
Appointment Type and Duration: Interim (OA), Limited
Salary: $38,000 - $40,000 per year
Compensation Band: OS-OA04-Fiscal Year 2026-2027
FTE: 1.0
Application Review Begins
August 20, 2026; position open until filled
Special Instructions to Applicants
To ensure consideration, a complete application must include:
1. A current resume/CV.
2. A cover letter demonstrating how your skills and experience meet the minimum and preferred qualifications for the position.
3. Three (3) professional references with contact information. References will not be contacted until you are notified."
For questions please email Mitch Kutin at PASTHR@Uoregon.edu
Department Summary
The only academic art museum in Oregon accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, the University of Oregon's Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art (JSMA) features engaging exhibitions, significant collections of historic and contemporary art, and exciting educational programs that support the University's academic mission and the diverse interests of its off-campus communities. The JSMA's collections galleries present selections from its extensive holdings of Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and American art. Special exhibitions galleries display works from the collection and on loan, representing many cultures of the world, past and present. The JSMA continues a long tradition of bridging international cultures and offers a welcoming destination for discovery and education centered on artistic expression that deepens the appreciation and understanding of the human condition.
Position Summary
The Museum Fellow will assist in all aspects of the curatorial and collections work of the museum's programs for American and European Art, and global contemporary art. Work activities will include managing schedules and providing regular reports; assisting in exhibition preparations and curatorial work; assisting with the publications program; helping schedule and attend exhibition meetings; taking minutes, assisting with exhibition design, production, installation, and other tasks, as assigned. Fellows will also conduct research on the museum's collection; write for didactic labels and catalogs and the museum's website, and for PR and marketing materials. Additionally, Fellows will research works for acquisition and loan; prepare loan forms; and prepare materials for the museum's Collections Committee.
Minimum Requirements
• MA/Ph.D./MFA/MArch in art history, studio art, architecture, and design, or a program with a relevant visual art component.
Professional Competencies
• Knowledge of Western art history and global contemporary art.
• Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills, including an understanding of how and why to write for different audiences.
• Comfortable receiving and providing contextualized critique as related to art and museum practice.
• Ability and enthusiasm for speaking publicly about art and the museum.
• Commitment to working with faculty and students in an academic museum context.
Preferred Qualifications
• Graduate of the University of Oregon.
• Experience working in a museum.
• Experience in project management.
FLSA Exempt: Yes
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check.
The University of Oregon is proud to offer a robust benefits package to eligible employees, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. For more information about benefits, visit our website.
The University of Oregon is an equal-opportunity institution committed to cultural diversity and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The University encourages all qualified individuals to apply and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected status, including veteran and disability status. The University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. To request an accommodation in connection with the application process, please email us or call 541-346-5112.
UO prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy (including pregnancy-related conditions), age, physical or mental disability, genetic information (including family medical history), ancestry, familial status, citizenship, service in the uniformed services (as defined in federal and state law), veteran status, expunged juvenile record, and/or the use of leave protected by state or federal law in all programs, activities and employment practices as required by Title IX, other applicable laws, and policies. Retaliation is prohibited by UO policy. Questions may be referred to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access. Contact information, related policies, and complaint procedures are listed here.
In compliance with federal law, the University of Oregon prepares an annual report on campus security and fire safety programs and services. The Annual Campus Security and Fire Safety Report is available online.
Advertised: August 6, 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close:

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