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Why museums? - Job hunting - Case studies
Where can I work? - Volunteering - Qualifications
Getting a first job
You don't just have to be passionate about art and objects to work in a museum or art gallery. The focus for museums and galleries is on interpreting collections and opening them up to as many people as possible. Museums and galleries want to position themselves at the heart of local communities. As a result they call on a range of specialist skills and experience.
There is still a role for what we think of as traditional museum professionals: curators who want to learn more about their collections and conservators who preserve and care for objects. But now museums want educators, craftsmen, designers, technicians, fundraisers and many other professional skills. It is some of the most rewarding work you can do, but there are downsides: there is huge competition for jobs, many people are educated to degree level and beyond, and the pay is low, even for public service jobs.
Starting salaries for people with post-graduate qualifications can be as little as £13,000 and ten years later you will probably still be earning less than £30,000.
On the upside, the profession needs a regular flow of new blood and you could find yourself with a high degree of responsibility early in your career. There are opportunities to work almost anywhere in the country. So, whether you want to pursue a passion, become actively involved in your community or simply help people have a good time, then museums and galleries have something for you.
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