Exhibition producer, museum

What does an exhibition producer in the museum sector do? – Tasks and work environment

An exhibition producer specializing in museums is responsible for planning, developing, and executing museum exhibitions from idea to finished experience. The work includes coordination among various roles such as curators, conservators, educators, and technicians. It involves managing budgets, logistics, and communication with artists, suppliers, and partners. The work environment is often project-based and can vary between office tasks and hands-on work in exhibition venues. Flexibility, good organizational skills, and an interest in cultural history are central to the profession.

Salary development over time

The salary for museum exhibition producers has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,700 SEK per month, increasing to 37 600 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average has risen further to 38 900 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 6% over the period. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified project management in the museum world and ongoing professionalization of the role. Changes in educational requirements and a greater focus on audience experience have also contributed to increasing the value of the exhibition producer's skills.

Exhibition producer, museum salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,600 SEK/month (female, government sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 47,000 SEK/month (male, government sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage: 234 SEK
• Women: 38 300 SEK/month
• Men: 40 100 SEK/month
• Women earn: 96% of men's salary

Education and qualifications

To work as an exhibition producer at a museum, a university degree in fields such as museum and cultural studies, art history, or project management is typically required. Employers value experience in project management, good communication skills, and understanding of museum education. Practical experience through internships or trainee positions is often advantageous and can be decisive for securing an initial position.

• Bachelor's degree: Museum and cultural studies, art history, or similar (3 years)
• Internships: Merit through placements at museums or cultural institutions
• Courses in project management: Often in demand
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies
• Further education: Master's programs and specialized courses available

Common benefits and compensations

Museum exhibition producers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and sometimes flexible working hours. Some government sector employers also provide professional development opportunities and pension contributions beyond collective agreement standards.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a museum exhibition producer is intense, especially since the number of permanent roles is often limited and many are attracted to the profession for its creative and cultural profile. Changes in attitudes within the museum sector, such as increased focus on digitization and audience interactivity, impose new demands on both technical and pedagogical skills. Additionally, project-based work requires resilience and the ability to handle tight deadlines. Salary differences between genders and regions can also pose challenges to the profession's long-term attractiveness.

Tips for aspiring museum exhibition producers

To succeed as an exhibition producer in the museum sector, it is beneficial to combine a structured work approach with creativity and curiosity. A strong interest in cultural history and art helps create engaging exhibitions, while meticulousness and project management skills facilitate coordination of complex workflows. Being communicative and receptive supports collaboration with various professional groups and external partners. Flexibility and problem-solving abilities are also important, especially when unexpected challenges arise during production. Continuous further education and networking within the industry can enhance opportunities for attractive positions. Ultimately, the ability to manage many tasks simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail is crucial, as this often determines the quality of the final result.

Key facts about exhibition producer, museum

• Average salary: 38 900 SEK/month
• Salary range: 26,600–47,000 SEK/month
• Educational level: Bachelor's degree in cultural or art sciences
• Work environment: Project-based, varies between office and exhibition space
• Job openings in the profession: 620

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an exhibition producer can advance to roles such as project manager for major exhibitions, museum director, or activity developer. Specialization within areas like digital exhibitions or audience engagement is also possible. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for the group of museum curators and related roles, there is no specific assessment for exhibition producers, but a total of 620 job openings were reported in the latest survey. Future prospects depend on budget conditions within the cultural sector, but museums' increasing need to attract new visitor groups and develop interactive experiences also influence job opportunities.

Frequently asked questions about exhibition producer, museum

• What does an exhibition producer at a museum earn?
  - The average salary is 38 900 SEK per month, ranging from 26,600 SEK to 47,000 SEK depending on education, experience, and sector.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn an average of 38 300 SEK, while men earn 40 100 SEK, meaning women earn approximately 96% of men's salaries.
• What does the job market look like for exhibition producers?
  - Currently, there are 620 job openings in the profession, but competition is high and permanent positions are sought after.
• What education is required to become an exhibition producer?
  - A bachelor's degree in museum and cultural studies, art history, or similar is recommended, often supplemented with internships.
• What opportunities are there for further education?
  - Further education can be pursued through master's programs, courses in project management, or specialization in digital exhibitions.
• What is the work environment like?
  - The work environment is project-based and varies between office work and physical work in exhibition spaces.
• What is the hourly wage for an exhibition producer at a museum?
  - The average hourly wage is 234 SEK.