Museum Technicians and Conservators: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 13,070 museum technicians and conservators, and they earn a median of $47,460/year. The range runs from $31K to $83K. District of Columbia pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level museum technicians and conservators start around $31K. The gap between that and the median ($47K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $83K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $74K | 520 |
| Maryland | $73K | 420 |
| Connecticut | $66K | 210 |
| New York | $65K | 1,060 |
| Alaska | $63K | 60 |
| Massachusetts | $59K | 290 |
| California | $59K | 1,790 |
| Washington | $58K | 270 |
| Rhode Island | $54K | 50 |
| New Mexico | $51K | 130 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a museum technicians and conservators make?▼
The median museum technicians and conservators salary in the United States is $47,460 per year ($23/hour). Entry-level positions start around $30,720, while experienced professionals earn up to $82,790.
What education do you need to become a museum technicians and conservators?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for museum technicians and conservators?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for museum technicians and conservators.
What are the highest paying states for museum technicians and conservators?▼
The highest paying states for museum technicians and conservators are District of Columbia ($74,300), Maryland ($72,950), Connecticut ($66,070), New York ($64,680), Alaska ($63,490). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.