Museum Technicians and Conservators
Museum technicians and conservators restore, maintain, and prepare objects for storage, research, or display. They work with artifacts ranging from fossils and textiles to paintings and historical documents. These specialists work in museums, archives, and conservation labs, handling delicate items and ensuring collections are preserved for future generations.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against museum technicians and conservators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
Work involves examining objects, documenting their condition, and performing conservation treatments. A technician might spend time cleaning a textile, stabilizing a fossil, or preparing artifacts for an exhibit. Other tasks include cataloging items in a database, installing displays, and arranging pieces in storage. The work requires attention to detail, proper handling techniques, and adherence to preservation standards.
Who this work suits
Holland code RCI. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to prefer hands-on, structured work with clear procedures and measurable outcomes. You're detail-oriented, methodical, and enjoy solving practical problems. Success in this field requires patience with meticulous tasks, respect for historical and scientific materials, and commitment to following established conservation protocols.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience).
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Openings right now
- Museum Technician (Seasonal) · National Park Service · Multiple Locations · $19.52–$31.43
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maryland | $51,440 | $76,900 | $108,160 | 450 |
| District of Columbia | $50,750 | $76,110 | $98,890 | 520 |
| New York | $58,030 | $74,550 | $83,360 | 1,050 |
| Connecticut | $50,480 | $62,030 | $79,460 | 280 |
| California | $49,600 | $61,550 | $75,960 | 1,610 |
| Alaska | $44,570 | $60,840 | $67,570 | 60 |
| Washington | $47,750 | $59,610 | $65,730 | 280 |
| Massachusetts | $49,590 | $58,530 | $67,610 | 440 |
| Illinois | $47,460 | $56,720 | $67,190 | 400 |
| New Mexico | $47,220 | $56,670 | $66,140 | 100 |
| Nevada | $40,350 | $56,470 | $69,490 | 70 |
| Wyoming | $47,660 | $56,420 | $57,310 | 60 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against museum technicians and conservators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 25-4013.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.