Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Museum Conservator is a professional responsible for the preservation, restoration, and maintenance of artifacts, artworks, and specimens in museum collections. They work to ensure the longevity and integrity of these items for future generations to study and enjoy.
Education: Bachelor's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 9.9% (far above average)
Annual job openings: 1,900
Direct AI exposure: 11% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 37% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $51K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $34K per year | $41K per year | $51K per year | $68K per year | $88K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $460 above the national average. | ||||
Museum Conservators typically work in museums, historical sites, or galleries. Their environment often includes conservation laboratories, where they examine and treat artifacts, as well as storage areas for collections. They may also spend time in research and office settings.
Museum Conservators play a crucial role in preserving cultural and historical heritage. Their work involves a mix of science and art, requiring a deep understanding of materials, chemistry, and art history. They assess the condition of items, determine appropriate conservation methods, and carry out treatments to repair, stabilize, or restore artifacts. This can range from cleaning and repairing to more complex restoration work.
The job demands a high level of precision and attention to detail, as conservators work with rare and often fragile items. They must stay updated with the latest conservation techniques and ethical standards. Additionally, they often conduct research and contribute to the museum's educational and outreach activities, helping to increase public awareness and appreciation of cultural heritage.
Collaboration is a key aspect of this role, as conservators work closely with curators, historians, and scientists. They contribute to the planning and setup of exhibitions, ensuring the safe display of items, and often provide training and guidance on the care and handling of collections.
A career as a Museum Conservator generally requires a master's degree in conservation or a related field, following a bachelor's degree. This equates to approximately 6-7 years of post-secondary education.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
