Salary
£15,000 Starter - £22,000 Experienced
Hours
41 to 43 a week (evenings / weekends on a rota)
Where to start
You can get into this job through
an apprenticeshipvolunteeringapplying directly
Apprenticeship
You could get into this work through a cultural learning and participation officer or museums technician Level 3 apprenticeship. You'll usually need 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths.
Volunteering
It's important that you get as much work experience as possible. It will help you get a better understanding of the role, and make contacts who may help you to find paid work.
Direct Application
You do not need any particular qualifications to become a museum assistant, although you'll usually need a good general standard of education, especially in English and maths.
There is a lot of competition for jobs and you may find some museums and galleries ask for a certain level of qualification, like A-Levels or equivalent.
You'll be in a stronger position when looking for work if you have:
- experience in customer care
- an interest in museums and their services
- volunteering experience in a museum, gallery or heritage attraction
- experience of security work could be useful for some jobs.
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Museums Association for your professional development.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- an interest and knowledge of history
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to work well with others
- to be flexible and open to change
- the ability to use your initiative
- excellent written communication skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Restrictions and Requirements
You'll need to
pass enhanced background checks
What you’ll do
Day-to-day tasks
On a typical day you may:
- patrol buildings to monitor security
- make sure exhibits are in good order
- give talks to visitors about exhibitions
- help curators to change displays and exhibitions
- create labels for objects and record items on display
- issue entrance tickets
- serve in a museum shop
- carry out administrative tasks and keep the museum clean and tidy
Working environment
You could work in a museum.
You may need to wear a uniform.
Career path and progression
With experience and relevant qualifications, you could become a programmes assistant, volunteer co-ordinator or assistant curator.
You could also become a learning assistant or education officer.