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Per Diem Museum Preparator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American

Part-Time Art Handler II

Campus, IL · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Art Hander II works under the supervision of the AU Museum's Preparator and works closely with, and ... Salary Range: * $25.00 - $30.00 per hour. Required Education and Experience: * 4 - 7 years ...

Ferris State University

Preparator

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$17.51/hr

Grand Rapids (Kendall) Department: 92600 - KCAD Admin and Finance Advertised Salary: $17.51 per ... BA or BFA in Art, Art History, Museum Studies, BA in Design, or related field. Required Work ...

Field Museum

Mount Shop Preparator I-III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Assists with handling and transporting artifacts within the Museum, maintains the safe storage of ... Work Hours and Shift: 35 hours per week. Hours: 8:30am - 4:30pm with occasional before, after or ...

Field Museum

Mount Shop Preparator I-III

Chicago, IL

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Assists with handling and transporting artifacts within the Museum, maintains the safe storage of ... Work Hours and Shift: 35 hours per week. Hours: 8:30am - 4:30pm with occasional before, after or ...

Ferris State University

Preparator

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$17.51/hr

Grand Rapids (Kendall) Department: 92600 - KCAD Admin and Finance Advertised Salary: $17.51 per ... BA or BFA in Art, Art History, Museum Studies, BA in Design, or related field. Required Work ...

Field Museum

Mount Shop Preparator I-III

Chicago, IL

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

Assists with handling and transporting artifacts within the Museum, maintains the safe storage of ... Work Hours and Shift: 35 hours per week. Hours: 8:30am - 4:30pm with occasional before, after or ...

Pediatrix

Neonatologist (Per Diem)

Dayton, OH · On-site

Per Diem ** Seeking Neonatologists to Join our Miami Valley Hospital Team in Dayton, OH - Apply ... The United States Air Force Museum, the oldest and largest military and aviation museum in the ...

Pediatrix

Neonatologist (Per Diem)

Dayton, OH

Per Diem ** Seeking Neonatologists to Join our Miami Valley Hospital Team in Dayton, OH - Apply ... The United States Air Force Museum, the oldest and largest military and aviation museum in the ...

Pediatrix

Neonatologist (Per Diem)

Dayton, OH · On-site

** Per Diem ** Seeking Neonatologists to Join our Miami Valley Hospital Team in Dayton, OH - Apply ... The United States Air Force Museum, the oldest and largest military and aviation museum in the ...

Pediatrix

Neonatologist (Per Diem)

Dayton, OH · On-site

Per Diem ** Seeking Neonatologists to Join our Miami Valley Hospital Team in Dayton, OH - Apply ... The United States Air Force Museum, the oldest and largest military and aviation museum in the ...

Pediatrix

Neonatologist (Per Diem)

Dayton, OH

Per Diem ** Seeking Neonatologists to Join our Miami Valley Hospital Team in Dayton, OH - Apply ... The United States Air Force Museum, the oldest and largest military and aviation museum in the ...

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How much do per diem museum preparator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for per diem museum preparator in the United States is $18.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a per diem museum preparator?

Per Diem Museum Preparators are specialized professionals who work on a temporary or as-needed basis to assist museums with the preparation, installation, and maintenance of exhibitions. Their duties often include handling, packing, installing, and deinstalling works of art or artifacts, ensuring proper care and safety of objects. These roles are typically project-based and may vary in hours depending on the needs of the museum. Per diem preparators are crucial for helping museums manage changing exhibitions, special events, or periods of high activity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a per diem museum preparator?

To thrive as a Per Diem Museum Preparator, you need a solid understanding of art handling, installation techniques, and object care, often supported by experience in museums or galleries. Familiarity with tools such as power drills, art hanging systems, and inventory management software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating with curators and ensuring the safety of artworks. These competencies are crucial for maintaining the integrity of collections and supporting smooth exhibition operations.

What are some typical challenges faced by per diem museum preparators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Per Diem Museum Preparators often face challenges such as adapting to varying exhibition schedules, handling delicate or valuable artifacts, and collaborating with multiple departments under tight deadlines. Managing these challenges requires strong organizational skills, flexibility, and clear communication with curators, conservators, and other team members. Staying up-to-date on proper handling techniques and safety protocols is also essential to ensure the protection of museum collections and smooth installation processes.

What is the difference between Per Diem Museum Preparator vs Museum Technician?

AspectPer Diem Museum PreparatorMuseum Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or associate degree; specialized training in conservation or collections handling is a plusUsually requires a bachelor's degree in museum studies, conservation, or related field
Work EnvironmentTemporary, short-term assignments in museums, galleries, or cultural institutionsFull-time or part-time roles within museums, focusing on collections care and exhibit preparation
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly hired by museums for specific projects or during busy periodsEmployed directly by museums to maintain and prepare collections and exhibits

The main difference is that Per Diem Museum Preparators work on temporary, short-term projects often with less formal education requirements, while Museum Technicians typically hold a degree and work in ongoing roles within museums. Both roles support collections and exhibit work but differ in employment type and credentials.

What cities are hiring for Per Diem Museum Preparator jobs?

Cities with the most Per Diem Museum Preparator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Museum Preparator jobs?

The most popular types of Museum Preparator jobs are:

What states have the most Per Diem Museum Preparator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Per Diem Museum Preparator jobs include:

Per Diem Museum Preparator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Per Diem Museum Preparator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,450 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Per Diem Museum Educator

Norman Rockwell Museum

Stockbridge, MA • On-site

$20/hr

Part-time, Per diem

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Description:

Reports to: Chief Learning and Engagement Officer


The Position

Do you love art and want to share your passion with others? The Norman Rockwell Museum seeks strong communicators who are outgoing and enjoy working with young people to join its Learning and Engagement department. Museum Educators lead inquiry-based tours, visit local school classrooms, and guide artmaking activities during museum programs and events. Scheduling is flexible and varies based on museum programming and staffing needs. Opportunities are typically available during morning and afternoon hours, with educators often working approximately 2–5 hours per week when assignments are available.


Responsibilities

  • Deliver education programs including guided tours, in-gallery programs, artmaking workshops, classes, camps, and multi-visit programs to student groups of all needs and abilities, grades K through college, as well as adults and community groups
  • Provide excellent visitor service and ensure a positive museum-going experience for all visitors
  • Facilitate weekend/holiday family workshops and activities
  • Attend training sessions and curator-led walkthroughs of exhibitions. Build knowledge of illustration art and artists; Norman Rockwell’s life, artistic process, and artwork; and NRM collections and special exhibitions
  • Incorporate feedback from NRM staff and ongoing tour evaluations to ensure high-quality visitor engagement and accurate and compelling learning experiences
  • Additional responsibilities may include assisting with after-school courses, both on-site and off-site; assisting at special events; and serving as a Museum representative for various off-site activities as needed
  • Other duties as assigned

Equity Goals

Provide a welcoming experience for visitors, especially first-time visitors and people from historically under-represented groups. Take part in continuing learning opportunities to create an inclusive environment and support the mission of NRM. As an educator, always use inclusive and sensitive language regarding race, gender, and sexuality.


Requirements:

Computer Literacy and Technology Skills

This role requires some use of technology and proficiency within an information technology environment. Knowledge and skills for basic use of computer hardware, software, email, calendars, and the Internet enhances efficiency, workflow and overall experience within the Museum.

Qualifications

  • Undergraduate work or degree in education, art, history, or related field
  • Previous experience teaching and/or working with young people strongly preferred
  • Excellent communication and listening skills
  • Open to feedback and ongoing evaluation
  • Knowledge of learning theory and object- and inquiry-based pedagogy
  • Strong organizational, interpersonal, teamwork, and writing skills
  • Working knowledge of art history and/or illustration a plus
  • We are looking especially for candidates who can teach in both Spanish and English, but it is not a requirement

Pay Structure: After successfully completing the mandatory training program, PT Museum Educators will agree to provide 10 -20 tours/programs on a contracted basis to be scheduled over a 6-month period. Educators are paid $125 per tours or program, with each assignment last up to 3 hours.


Mileage reimbursement can be submitted for mileage over normal commute distance


Additional pay of $20 per hour is offered for attending trainings, meetings, and working public programs such as all ages art making, workshops and evening events.


Apply