Restore, maintain, or prepare objects in museum collections for storage, research, or exhibit. May work with specimens such as fossils, skeletal parts, or botanicals; or artifacts, textiles, or art. May identify and record objects or install and arrange them in exhibits. Includes book or document conservators.
SOC: 25-4013.00
Common Job Titles
Conservator
Objects Conservator
Paintings Conservator
Preparator
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeCreate detailed documentation and condition reports for museum collections using digital imaging, database management systems, and written records for institutional archives.
Advanced
KnowledgeEvaluate condition and preservation needs of museum artifacts, textiles, and specimens using microscopic examination and chemical analysis techniques, following conservation standards.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform restoration and conservation treatments on historical objects and artworks using specialized tools such as air abrasive equipment, microscopes, and precision instruments under controlled environmental conditions.
Proficient
Hands-onDemonstrate mastery handling and moving fragile museum collection objects following established protocols for storage, research, and exhibit preparation.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess environmental conditions and risks to collection materials monitoring temperature, humidity, and light exposure using specialized measurement equipment.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate ethical conservation principles with practical exhibit and research demands when collaborating with curators, researchers, and museum stakeholders.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate preservation best practices and collection care standards when consulting with museum staff, external institutions, and the public.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze material composition and deterioration patterns of cultural heritage items applying knowledge of chemistry, fine arts, and history to inform conservation strategies.
Developing
Hands-onExecute exhibit installation and object arrangement designing displays that balance aesthetic presentation with preservation requirements and public safety.
Developing
KnowledgeApply scientific analysis techniques to identify and authenticate objects using infrared cameras, x-ray equipment, and ultraviolet examination lights in laboratory settings.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Museum Technicians and Conservators (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
13,070
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $30,720. 25th percentile: U.S. $37,460. 50th percentile: U.S. $47,460. 75th percentile: U.S. $62,990. 90th percentile: U.S. $82,790. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$30,720
10% of workers earn the following or more
$82,790
Workers on average earn
$53,630
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Fine Arts3.5/5
English Language3.4/5
Public Safety and Security3.3/5
History and Archeology3.2/5
Administration and Management3.1/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
