Museum Technicians

Employment for technicians who work at museums, historical sites, and similar institutions is expected to grow by 14.6 percent from 2023 through 2033, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. This is much faster than the average for all occupations. The public's growing interest in science, art, history, and technology will contribute to good employment opportunities for museum technicians. Competition for jobs will be keen, however, as there are usually far more candidates than available positions. Freelance technicians may have better odds of securing work. As museums continue to address budget difficulties, many may choose not to retain a large staff of technicians throughout the year, but instead contract with independent exhibition and design companies on a short-term basis when there is the need to install a new exhibit. Private industry and for-profit companies have continued to grow while federally funded nonprofit museums may experience either a reduction of staff or limited hiring of new employees. Museum technicians with specialized training, a master's degree, and internship or volunteer experience will have an advantage in the job market.