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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Museum Technicians.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Museum Technicians.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 13%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Clean objects, such as paper, textiles, wood, metal, glass, rock, pottery, and furniture, using cleansers, solvents, soap solutions, and polishes.
Install, arrange, assemble, and prepare artifacts for exhibition, ensuring the artifacts' safety, reporting their status and condition, and identifying and correcting any problems with the set up.
Repair, restore, and reassemble artifacts, designing and fabricating missing or broken parts, to restore them to their original appearance and prevent deterioration.
Becoming a museum technician is a rewarding career choice for those interested in preserving cultural heritage and working with historical artifacts. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you pursue this path.
First, it's essential to know what a museum technician does. They are responsible for the care and preservation of museum items, managing collections, preparing objects for storage and display, and sometimes assisting with research. Their work ensures that artifacts are kept in optimal conditions for education and enjoyment by future generations.
Obtain a Bachelor's Degree: Most museum technician positions require at least a bachelor's degree. Relevant fields of study include:
Consider Advanced Degrees: For some specialized roles or higher-level positions, a master's degree may be beneficial or necessary.
Internships: Pursue internships at museums or related institutions. This hands-on experience is invaluable and can sometimes lead to job offers.
Volunteer: Volunteering can provide additional experience and networking opportunities within the museum community.
Part-time Work: Look for part-time jobs or temporary positions in museums to build up your resume and skill set.
Museum technicians need a diverse skill set that includes both technical and interpersonal abilities:
Collection Management Software: Familiarize yourself with commonly used software in the field.
Preservation Techniques: Learn about the latest methods for preserving different types of materials.
Attention to Detail: Precision is crucial when handling and documenting artifacts.
Communication Skills: You'll need to communicate effectively with colleagues, researchers, and sometimes the public.
While not always required, professional certification can demonstrate expertise and commitment to the field. Consider certifications such as:
Certified Archivist (CA) from the Academy of Certified Archivists
Professional certification from the American Institute for Conservation
Additionally, attend workshops, conferences, and continue your education to stay current with best practices and emerging technologies in museum work.
Join professional organizations to network with other museum professionals:
These associations often have job boards, resources, and events that can aid in your career development.
When you're ready to apply for museum technician jobs:
Prepare a Strong Resume: Highlight your education, experience, skills, and any special projects or exhibitions you’ve contributed to.
Use Online Job Boards: Look for job listings on websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, or specialized museum employment sites.
Apply to Various Institutions: Don't limit your search to large museums; consider historical societies, universities, government agencies, and private collections.
Tailor Your Application: Customize your cover letter and resume for each position to demonstrate how your skills match the job requirements.
By following these steps and dedicating yourself to continuous learning and networking within the field, you’ll be on your way to becoming a skilled museum technician. Remember that persistence and passion are key in this competitive field.
To start a career as a museum technician, you typically need at least a bachelor's degree in one of the following fields:
Some positions may require a master's degree, particularly for specialized roles or advancement opportunities.
Museum technicians should possess a mix of technical and soft skills, including:
While not always required, certifications can enhance your qualifications. Some useful certifications include:
Daily tasks can vary but often include:
With experience and additional education, museum technicians can advance to:
The demand for museum technicians depends on factors such as government funding for museums, public interest in cultural preservation, and the number of museums operating. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provides updated information on job outlooks.
Museum technicians can be found in various settings:
Gaining experience can involve:
Yes, specializations may include:
Remember to regularly check authoritative sources like the American Alliance of Museums for updates on best practices, job listings, and professional development opportunities in the museum field.