FAQ
Museum Technician FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a museum technician.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a museum technician: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about museum technicians
Do technicians need a degree?
Usually a bachelor’s.
Is conservation different?
Yes, conservators usually need a master’s.
Is the field growing?
BLS projects about average growth.
How much does a museum technician make?
The median annual wage for museum technicians was $51,440 ($24.73 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $33,780 and the highest 10% earned more than $87,530.
How long does it take to become a museum technician?
Most people need about Bachelor’s plus internships of training. A bachelor’s degree in art, history or museum studies is typical; conservators need a master’s.
Do you need a degree to be a museum technician?
Usually, yes. BLS lists a bachelor's degree as the typical entry-level education, although skills, certifications and experience can sometimes substitute.
Is museum technician a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +3.6% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 1,600 openings each year. Upsides include hands-on with collections; a common challenge is that modest pay.
What skills does a museum technician need?
Key technical skills include object handling, packing and crating, mount making, and condition reporting. Employers also value care, attention to detail, and teamwork.
What certifications are available for museum technicians?
Common credentials include Museum studies certificate, Conservation master’s, Lift certification, and Art handling training. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Museum Technician fit quiz, compare with Curator, or explore Museum Technician training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 25-4013 (Museum technicians and conservators).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Museum technicians and conservators (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.