Museum assistant

What does a museum assistant do? – Tasks and work environment

A museum assistant supports the daily operations of the museum, which often involves welcoming visitors, providing information about exhibitions, and assisting with the proper handling of collections. Tasks can vary from working at the reception, guiding groups, assisting with educational programs, or participating in registration and conservation of objects. The role often involves close contact with colleagues and the public, and the work environment combines administrative duties with public-facing work in different parts of the museum. The work is usually carried out in museum premises, which can be historic or modern, requiring precision and a service-oriented approach.

Salary development over time

The salary for a museum assistant has shown a stable but slightly positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 28,400 SEK, increasing to 28 900 SEK in 2023. The latest recorded average salary for 2024 is 30 000 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 5.6% during this period. The salary increase can be linked to a general trend of adjustments within the cultural sector and an increased focus on ensuring equal pay between genders. Although demand for museum assistants has not changed significantly, employers in the public sector have made some adaptations to retain skilled staff. The profession includes both women and men, and the salary level has been equitable throughout the period.

Museum assistant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,800 SEK (women, public sector, pre-secondary education) / 27,900 SEK (men)
• Highest salary: 32,400 SEK (women, public sector, post-secondary education shorter than 3 years) / 31,800 SEK (men)
• Hourly wage: 180 SEK
• Gender differences: None – women and men have the same average salary
• Regional differences: No specific data available

Education and qualifications

To work as a museum assistant, a high school diploma is usually required, often with a focus on humanities, culture, or social sciences. Some employers prefer candidates with post-secondary education in museum or cultural studies, but it is not always a requirement. Practical experience in public service, customer service, or guiding is advantageous and can sometimes weigh more than formal education. An interest in history and culture, as well as good communication skills, are also important for success in the role.

• High school diploma: Social sciences, culture, or humanities
• Post-secondary education: Museum and cultural studies (meritorious, not always required)
• Internships or volunteer work: Often advantageous and provides valuable experience
• Courses in customer service or guiding techniques: Recommended
• Prerequisites: Good language skills and an interest in cultural history

Common benefits and compensations

Museum assistants are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, subsidized lunches, opportunities for skill development, and sometimes flexible working hours. Occupational pension and insurance schemes are generally included for employees in the public sector. Overtime pay may apply for work on weekends or evenings.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a museum assistant can be relatively high, especially in major cities where many seek opportunities in the cultural sector. The number of job openings in the profession is currently 758, but since the role is part of a broader occupational group, opportunities vary between different museums and regions. A challenge is that many positions may be temporary or project-based, requiring flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to new tasks. Limited data makes it difficult to provide an exact forecast for the future, but generally, good service skills and broad competence within the cultural sector are in demand.

Tips for those who want to become a museum assistant

To succeed as a museum assistant, it is good to be curious, communicative, and service-minded. Volunteering or interning at a museum provides valuable experience and demonstrates initiative. An interest in history and culture is a strength that can be used to create engaging interactions with visitors. Flexibility and adaptability to different tasks make it easier to obtain and retain positions in the field. Accuracy and a sense of responsibility are important qualities, especially when handling objects and administrative tasks. Building a network within the cultural sector, for example by attending industry events, can also open doors to new opportunities. Language skills and digital competence further increase chances of employment.

Key facts about museum assistants

• Education level: High school diploma, often supplemented with post-secondary courses
• Work environment: Museum premises with varied tasks
• Typical employment type: Permanent or project-based positions
• Gender distribution: Equal – women and men have the same average salary
• Job openings in the profession: 758

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience as a museum assistant, there may be opportunities to advance to roles such as museum educator, collection manager, or administrative manager within the museum sector. Positions like exhibition coordinator or project leader for temporary exhibitions are also possible career paths. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, no specific forecast is made for museum assistants due to limited data, but demand within the broader group of archive and library assistants remains stable. Further education in museum and cultural studies or taking on more responsibility can enhance development opportunities within the sector.

Frequently asked questions about museum assistants

• What does a museum assistant earn?
  - A museum assistant has an average salary of 30 000 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - No, women and men have the same average salary within this profession.
• What education is required to become a museum assistant?
  - Usually, a high school diploma, often supplemented with courses in culture or museum work.
• What are the future prospects for museum assistants?
  - No forecast is available due to limited data, but demand remains stable.
• What is the highest salary for a museum assistant?
  - The highest salary is 32,400 SEK and belongs to a woman in the public sector with post-secondary education.
• How many job openings are there in the profession?
  - There are 758 available jobs within the archive and library assistant professions.
• What personal qualities are important for a museum assistant?
  - Service-mindedness, accuracy, and an interest in culture are especially valuable.