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So You Want to Work in a Museum: A Comprehensive Guide from the American Alliance of Museums

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Museum Employee Working With Artifacts In A Museum. So You Want To Work In A Museum? (American Alliance Of Museums)

Have you ever dreamed of working in a museum? If so, you're not alone. Museums are fascinating places that offer a unique opportunity to learn about history, culture, and art. But what does it take to get a job in a museum? And what are the different types of museum jobs available?

So You Want to Work in a Museum? (American Alliance of Museums)

by Tara Young

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	238 pages

This comprehensive guide from the American Alliance of Museums (AAM) will answer all of your questions about working in a museum. We'll cover everything from the different types of museum jobs available to the education and experience you need to get hired. We'll also provide tips on how to find a job in a museum and how to succeed in your career.

Types of Museum Jobs

There are many different types of museum jobs available, from curators and conservators to educators and administrators. Here is a brief overview of some of the most common museum jobs:

Curators are responsible for the museum's collection. They research, acquire, and care for the objects in the collection. Curators also develop and install exhibitions, and they may give lectures and write articles about the collection.
Conservators are responsible for preserving the museum's collection. They use a variety of techniques to clean, repair, and restore objects. Conservators also develop and implement conservation plans, and they may conduct research on new conservation methods.
Educators are responsible for teaching the public about the museum's collection. They develop and deliver educational programs for all ages, from children to adults. Educators may also work with schools and other organizations to develop outreach programs.
Administrators are responsible for the day-to-day operations of the museum. They oversee the budget, supervise staff, and manage the museum's facilities. Administrators may also work with the board of directors to develop and implement the museum's strategic plan.

Education and Experience

The education and experience you need to get a job in a museum will vary depending on the type of job you're interested in. However, most museum jobs require at least a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as history, art history, or museum studies. Some jobs may also require a master's degree or a Ph.D.

In addition to education, many museum jobs also require experience working in a museum setting. This experience can be gained through internships, volunteer work, or temporary positions. If you're interested in a particular museum job, it's a good idea to contact the museum and inquire about any internship or volunteer opportunities they may have.

How to Find a Job in a Museum

There are a few different ways to find a job in a museum. One way is to search for job openings on the AAM website. The AAM website lists job openings from museums all over the country. You can also search for job openings on the websites of individual museums.

Another way to find a job in a museum is to network with people in the field. Attend museum conferences and events, and get involved with museum organizations. This will help you meet people who can help you learn about job openings and get your foot in the door.

Finally, you can also apply for jobs directly with museums. Many museums have a careers page on their website where you can submit your resume and cover letter. When applying for a job in a museum, it's important to tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific job you're interested in. Be sure to highlight your skills and experience that are relevant to the job, and explain why you're interested in working in a museum.

How to Succeed in Your Museum Career

Once you've landed a job in a museum, there are a few things you can do to succeed in your career. First, it's important to be passionate about your work. If you're not passionate about museums, it will be difficult to stay motivated and engaged in your work.

Second, it's important to be willing to learn and grow. The museum field is constantly changing, so it's important to be willing to learn new things and adapt to new technologies.

Third, it's important to be a team player. Museums are collaborative environments, so it's important to be able to work well with others. Be willing to help out your colleagues and contribute to the overall success of the museum.

Finally, it's important to be patient. Success in the museum field takes time. Don't expect to become a curator or director overnight. Be patient, work hard, and you will eventually achieve your goals.

Working in a museum can be a rewarding and fulfilling career. If you're passionate about history, culture, and art, then a museum career may be right for you. With the right education and experience, you can land a job in a museum and start your journey towards success.

So You Want to Work in a Museum? (American Alliance of Museums)

by Tara Young

4.5 out of 5