Museum Collection Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s evolving cultural landscape, the role of the Museum Collection Manager is more crucial than ever.

As history unfolds, so does the need for proficient curators who can classify, preserve, and enhance our cultural heritage.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Museum Collection Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricacies of museum management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Museum Collection Manager job description template, created for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Museum Collection Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Museum Collection Managers are responsible for the logistical administration of a museum’s collection, including tasks related to documentation, conservation, and storage.

They also help in developing exhibits and ensuring the collection is used effectively for educational purposes.

The duties and responsibilities of Museum Collection Managers include:

• Overseeing the acquisition, documentation, and cataloguing of objects within the museum’s collection
• Managing the storage and conservation of objects, ensuring they are kept in the best possible condition
• Ensuring the security of the collection, including developing and implementing security protocols and procedures
• Coordinating with curators and other staff to develop and organize exhibits
• Facilitating research access to the collection for staff and external researchers
• Maintaining up-to-date records of the location and condition of objects in the collection
• Supervising the packing and shipping of objects for loan to other institutions
• Keeping abreast of laws and regulations related to museum collections, and ensuring compliance
• Assisting in the development and implementation of the museum’s collection policy

 

Museum Collection Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a diligent Museum Collection Manager to oversee and manage our museum’s collection.

Your responsibilities will include cataloging, conserving, and storing objects, coordinating exhibits and loans, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and standards.

Our ideal candidate has a keen eye for detail, a strong understanding of museum operations and collection management systems, and a deep appreciation for cultural heritage and historical artifacts.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement collection policies and procedures
• Maintain a detailed catalog of the museum’s collection
• Supervise the handling, transportation, storage, and display of objects
• Coordinate with curators and other staff to plan and arrange exhibits
• Manage loans of objects to and from other institutions
• Ensure the conservation and preservation of collection items
• Keep up-to-date records and create reports on collection activities
• Coordinate training programs for collection staff and volunteers
• Ensure compliance with laws and ethical standards related to collection management

 

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in museum studies, history, archaeology, or a related field
• Experience working in a museum or similar cultural institution
• Knowledge of collection management systems and cataloging standards
• Understanding of conservation and preservation practices
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in using Microsoft Office and database software

 

Benefits

• Healthcare and dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Free or discounted museum admission

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Museum Collection Manager
• Work Environment: The role is based in a museum setting and involves some physical activity, such as lifting and moving objects. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required for special events or exhibits.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Museum Director or Deputy Director.
• Salary: Salary is dependent upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our institution. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your experience and interest in the position to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Museum Collection Manager Do?

Museum Collection Managers are crucial to preserving and maintaining the valuable artefacts and collections that a museum houses.

They are responsible for cataloguing and organizing the items in the museum’s collection.

This includes documenting the provenance of artefacts, as well as their historical or cultural significance.

Museum Collection Managers often work closely with curators and conservators to ensure the proper storage and preservation of objects.

This could include controlling the environment in which objects are stored to prevent damage, or arranging for the restoration or conservation of fragile or aged items.

They are also tasked with managing the inventory of the collection, making sure that all items are accounted for and properly stored.

In some cases, they might also coordinate the transportation of artefacts to other institutions for exhibitions or research.

In addition to these tasks, Museum Collection Managers often assist in developing and implementing policies and procedures related to the acquisition, handling, and deaccessioning of objects within the museum’s collection.

Moreover, they may be involved in educational and outreach activities, helping to interpret the collection for the public and organizing special exhibits.

Their role, while heavily administrative, also involves a deep understanding and appreciation of the historical, cultural, and artistic importance of the objects they manage.

 

Museum Collection Manager Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Museum Collection Manager should possess the following qualifications and skills:

• Strong knowledge of the history and significance of the collections in the museum, as well as a good understanding of acquisition and valuation principles.
• Excellent organizational skills to manage and maintain the museum’s collection effectively and efficiently.
• Strong attention to detail to ensure the accuracy and authenticity of each item in the collection.
• Excellent communication skills to liaise with curators, researchers, and other museum staff, as well as to facilitate interactions with the public.
• Interpersonal skills to build relationships with potential donors and negotiate acquisitions.
• Proficiency in using collection management software and databases to catalog, track, and manage the museum’s collection.
• Problem-solving skills to address any issues related to the preservation, display, or documentation of items in the collection.
• Physical abilities to handle delicate and possibly heavy artifacts.
• Understanding and ability to implement conservation and preservation methods to maintain the integrity of the collection.

 

Museum Collection Manager Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for a Museum Collection Manager position typically have 1-2 years of experience working in a museum or similar cultural institution.

This can be gained through internships, volunteering, or part-time roles in positions such as Museum Assistant or Curator Assistant.

Candidates with 3-5 years of experience often have specialized knowledge in areas like preservation, museum studies, art history, or a related field.

During this time, they may have also gained experience in cataloging, maintaining, and organizing collections, as well as implementing museum policies and procedures.

Those with more than 5 years of experience typically have significant expertise in managing museum collections.

This may include experience with inventory control, artifact handling and storage, exhibit preparation, and database management.

They may also have some leadership experience, having supervised volunteers or staff members, and are likely ready for a managerial role within the museum.

In addition to this, a Museum Collection Manager may also require a graduate degree in museum studies, art history, or a related field.

 

Museum Collection Manager Education and Training Requirements

Museum Collection Managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in museum studies, art history, archaeology, anthropology or a related field.

They also need a solid understanding of collection care, including documentation, packing and transportation, conservation and storage, and exhibit preparation.

Some positions, especially those in larger museums or those involving valuable or rare collections, may require a Museum Collection Manager to have a master’s degree in museum studies, conservation or a similar discipline.

Additionally, many Museum Collection Managers pursue professional certifications in areas like records management, preventive conservation, or collections management to enhance their skill set and increase their job prospects.

Having a master’s degree and/or certification may also indicate a candidate’s commitment to the field and dedication to ongoing learning.

Practical experience, such as internships or volunteering at museums or historical societies, can be highly beneficial.

 

Museum Collection Manager Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Museum Collection Manager is approximately $51,820 (USD) per year.

However, actual earnings can vary considerably based on factors such as the size and prestige of the museum, the manager’s level of experience, educational background, and the location of the museum.

 

Museum Collection Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Museum Collection Manager need?

A Museum Collection Manager should have a keen eye for detail, strong organizational and project management skills to manage the vast collection of artifacts.

They should also have strong knowledge of collection handling, preservation and conservation techniques.

Research skills are important for historical and provenance research.

They should also have good communication skills to interact with staff, donors, and the public.

 

What qualifications does a Museum Collection Manager need?

Typically, a Museum Collection Manager should have a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as history, archaeology, art history, museum studies, or anthropology.

Some museums may require a master’s degree or equivalent work experience.

They should also have experience working in a museum or similar institution, handling collections, and utilizing collections management software.

 

What are the daily duties of a Museum Collection Manager?

The daily duties of a Museum Collection Manager can vary, but generally, they are responsible for the care, cataloging, storage, and preservation of the museum’s collections.

They maintain records and databases related to the items, coordinate with curators for exhibitions, and oversee the transportation of objects for loans or conservation work.

They also ensure adherence to proper handling and storage procedures, and may also assist in research and acquisition of new items.

 

What qualities make a good Museum Collection Manager?

A good Museum Collection Manager should be meticulous, as they need to handle delicate artifacts and maintain detailed records.

They should be passionate about their field, whether it’s art, history, science, etc., as this drives their commitment to preserving the collection.

They should also be flexible and able to adapt to changing conditions such as new acquisitions or shifting exhibitions.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Museum Collection Manager?

Hiring a Museum Collection Manager can be challenging as it requires a candidate with a unique blend of skills including knowledge of the specific field, collections management, preservation techniques and often, familiarity with certain software.

The candidate should also fit into the museum’s culture and philosophy.

Therefore, it requires a thorough and careful recruitment process.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved deep into the essence of being a Museum Collection Manager.

Guess what?

It’s not just about cataloguing artefacts.

It’s about shaping the narrative of history, one exhibit at a time.

With our comprehensive Museum Collection Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on your career journey.

But why stop there?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your key to creating meticulous job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every exhibit is a piece of the larger historical tapestry.

Let’s weave that story. Together.

How to Become a Museum Collection Manager (Complete Guide)

Weirdly Awesome: Unusual Jobs That Will Blow Your Mind

Job Joy: The Most Satisfying Careers You Can Have

Workplace Wonderland: Enjoyable Jobs That Feel Like a Dream

The Hallmarks of Success: The Most Prestigious Jobs in the World