Employment Opportunities

Opportunities at the Hammer Museum are posted on UCLA's Career Opportunities portal. To filter for Hammer Museum jobs, select the Search Jobs button, and scroll to the bottom of the listing page to find the search panel. Enter "Hammer" in the Keyword search field.

Chief of Learning, Engagement, and Research
Chief Curator
Associate, Rental Events (Contract Position)
Exhibition Technician I (Seasonal part-time)
Exhibition Technician II (Seasonal part-time)
Part-Time Stock Associate
Part-Time Store Clerk
Part-Time AV Technician
Part-Time AV Technician, Exhibitions
Part-Time Security Ambassador

Development Student Assistant
Student Educator Program
Facilities Student Assistant
Finance Student Assistant
Frontline Ambassador
Gallery Ambassador
IT Student Assistant
 

Classification: Full-time; exempt

Salary: The budgeted hiring salary/target range for this position is $102,500 - $210,000 annually with salary placement based on skills, knowledge, and experience.

The Hammer Museum at UCLA seeks a leader who will be responsible for establishing a multidisciplinary platform that advances the Hammer Museum's public programs, community partnerships, and academic initiatives. This role will deepen the educational mission of the museum, expand audience engagement across all ages, and foster research onsite, online, and offsite. The leader must ensure that all initiatives align with institutional capacity, remain financially sustainable, and support the Hammer's strategic priorities. The successful candidate's approach should support and grow Hammer staff in developing and furthering the museum's role as a place for learning, engagement, and research; the Hammer's artist-centered mission; audiences in having meaningful connections with art and artists; the Hammer's ability to be a hub of research especially at the intersection of art and society; awareness of the Hammer's role as a civic resource; and the Hammer's impact locally, nationally, and internationally, especially contributing to and strengthening the cultural life of Los Angeles and the Hammer's core relationship with the University of California, Los Angeles. The ideal candidate will be rigorous, curious, and multifaceted in their communication and engagement, able to engender trust and inspire potential in our communities locally and globally. The Hammer seeks someone who is creative and strategic in their approach, can work collaboratively, is a good mentor, and believes passionately in the critical role that the arts play in the cultural life of our city. The Chief of LER will be energized to create inspiring encounters with art and a space for courageous conversations on art and society that are catalysts for how we see ourselves, the world, and its possibilities. They will be adept at piloting experimental programs, testing out ideas, and invested in innovation as a critical component of an evolving arts organization. A crucial component of the position is working alongside the Hammer's Director to determine a strategic vision for partnerships, programs, and curricula with students and faculty that take advantage of the Hammer's location within the University of California, Los Angeles, furthering our research mission. Reporting to the Hammer's Director, the Chief of LER will be responsible for unifying existing teams and leveraging institutional expertise with the support of the Director of Public Programs and Associate Director of Academic Programs within a new collaborative hub for LER at the Hammer. In concert with the Hammer's Director, the incumbent will work to align the department with the mission of the Hammer and cultivate meaningful connections between audiences, artists, and ideas. The Chief of LER will develop collaborative working methods internally and externally to ensure mission alignment, manage scope of work, financial sustainability, and effective, efficient, streamlined working methods. This includes collaborating with staff to assess and mitigate risks related to brand reputation, legal considerations, security, and insurance, and develop proactive solutions that align with the museum's mission and operational needs. Through this work, they will help deepen the Hammer's connection to UCLA and contribute to the broader cultural landscape of Los Angeles.

For full job description and to apply, please visit UCLA Career Opportunities. Please submit an online application as instructed. Due to the volume of resumes that we receive, we are regretfully unable to respond to phone calls and emails regarding the status of applications and the recruiting process.

Classification: Full-time; exempt 

Salary: The budgeted hiring salary/target range for this position is $124,600 - $210,000 annually with salary placement based on skills, knowledge, and experience. 

The Hammer Museum at UCLA seeks a visionary, dynamic, and strategic leader to serve as Chief Curator. In partnership with the Museum's Director, the Chief Curator shapes and leads the creative and curatorial vision of the institution, overseeing the development of compelling exhibitions and the stewardship of the Hammer Contemporary Collection and UCLA's Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden. As a key member of the senior leadership team, the Chief Curator plays a pivotal role in setting institutional priorities, forging new artistic directions, and advancing the Museum's mission through bold and innovative curatorial initiatives. The Chief Curator makes critical, strategic decisions regarding the Museum's institutional plans. This position provides strategic leadership across the curatorial division – supervising the curatorial, exhibitions, publications, registration and preparation staff in leading curatorial and collections initiatives in accordance with standard museum practice and the guidelines of the AAMD, AAMC and AAM. The Chief Curator's primary duties include the conceptualization, development, and direction of modern and contemporary in-house exhibitions; the determination of curatorial priorities; oversight of exhibition implementation; and selection and leadership of traveling and guest-curated exhibitions. This role also includes the strategic development of the Hammer Contemporary Collection and oversight of the UCLA Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden. The incumbent engages actively with artists, scholars, donors, and the broader public, and participates in programs including lectures, symposia, and scholarly meetings. The Chief Curator also provides leadership to the Artist Council and Artist Residency program and supports the engagement of the Museum's Board of Advisors. Reporting to the Hammer's Director, the Chief Curator will contribute to the museum-wide strategy and serve as a core member of the senior management team, ensuring the curatorial vision aligns with broader institutional goals. They will lead, mentor, and evaluate the curatorial department staff, fostering an environment of growth and development. The Chief Curator will set departmental goals, manage daily operations, and chair internal meetings to ensure the department runs smoothly. They will provide oversight to the Director of Exhibitions and Publications and the Director of Registration and Collections Management, ensuring that all areas are functioning cohesively. Collaboration with the Grunwald Center for the Graphic Arts and the Learning, Engagement, and Research department is key to supporting academic and community initiatives, fostering a deeper connection with the public. 

For full job description and to apply, please visit UCLA Career Opportunities. Please submit an online application as instructed. Due to the volume of resumes that we receive, we are regretfully unable to respond to phone calls and emails regarding the status of applications and the recruiting process.

Classification: Full-time; non-exempt

Salary: The budgeted hiring salary/target range for this position is $29.17 - $29.67 hourly with salary placement based on skills, knowledge, and experience.

In partnership with Museum leadership and the Assistant Director, Museum Events, this position is responsible for coordinating the museum's robust corporate rental program along with support for fundraising events for Museum patrons and potential funders, that yield more than $3.5 million each year. This position advances the Hammer Museum's mission through fundraising as it relates to special events and targeted philanthropic corporate sponsorships and partnerships. This includes two major annual fundraising events: Gala in the Garden and K.A.M.P. (Kids Art Museum Project). Additionally, provides support to openings, dinners, and receptions. This position supports a comprehensive fundraising event plan to cultivate and secure support for the Hammer's annual operations, with an emphasis on drafting correspondence, conducting research, coordinating meetings and events, and communicating with third parties such as event sponsors, chairs, in-kind partners, vendors, and contractors. Works closely with Assistant Director, Museum Events and Development Department to manage the event plan and prepare regular status reports to keep all involved apprised of event activity and key points of coordination. This position will also be responsible for tracking pledges and gifts associated with the events and acting as a liaison with other departments (communications, curatorial, operations, etc.) as their activities relate to Events. The primary role for this position will be to cultivate and grow the museum ambitious $500,000 rental program. The individual will respond to all inquiries in a timely fashion and work both internally and externally to ensure all protocols and policies are carefully followed.

For full job description and to apply, please visit UCLA Career Opportunities. Please submit an online application as instructed. Due to the volume of resumes that we receive, we are regretfully unable to respond to phone calls and emails regarding the status of applications and the recruiting process.

Salary: $26.42-$31.52 hourly; salary placement based on skills, knowledge, and experience.

Under the direction of the Manager of Exhibition Design & Production, the Exhibition Technician I is responsible for readying galleries for the installation of artworks (but not handling artworks). Duties include assisting artists installation; moving exhibition display components and materials; preparing areas for installation of graphics; and coordinating with other museum staff and contractors as needed. Work is seasonal and based on the Museum’s exhibition schedule.

Requirements:

• Knowledge of common museum display practices.
• General knowledge of the use of hand and power tools.
• Ability to work in a team environment.
• Knowledge of current architectural modeling and rendering applications such as CAD & SketchUP a plus but not necessary.
• Understanding of contemporary art exhibition practices and ability to read technical and architectural drawings required.
• Ability to comfortably lift 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time; ability to bend to lift, move, carry, artwork safely.
• Ability to use tools and equipment safely, properly, and skillfully.
• Basic math skills: addition, subtraction, fractions.

Application: please email resume and cover letter to resumes@hammer.ucla.edu and include "Exhibition Technician I" in the subject line. Selected applicants will be contacted. Due to the volume of resumes that we receive, we are regretfully unable to respond to phone calls and emails regarding the status of applications and the recruiting process. This is a limited appointment position.

Salary: $28.88-$37.37; salary placement based on skills, knowledge, and experience.

Under the direction of the Manager of Exhibition Design & Production, the Exhibition Technician II is responsible for readying galleries for the installation of artworks (but not handling artworks). Duties include assisting artists with fabrication including research materials and fabrication options, communicating with artists and curators on fabrication, site specific designs, and execution; fabricating and moving exhibition display components and materials; preparing areas for installation of graphics; and coordinating with other museum staff and contractors as needed. Work is seasonal and based on the Museum’s exhibition schedule.

Requirements:

• Knowledge of common museum display practices.
• Proficient with hand and power tools.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to work in a team environment.
• Knowledge of current architectural modeling and rendering applications such as CAD & SketchUP a plus.
• Understanding of contemporary art exhibition practices and ability to read technical and architectural drawings required.
• Ability to comfortably lift 50 pounds.
• Ability to stand for extended periods of time; ability to bend to lift, move, carry, artwork safely.
• Ability to use tools and equipment safely, properly, and skillfully.
• Basic math skills: addition, subtraction, fractions.

Application: please email a resume and cover letter to resumes@hammer.ucla.edu and include "Exhibition Technician II" in the subject line. Selected applicants will be contacted. Due to the volume of resumes that we receive, we are regretfully unable to respond to phone calls and emails regarding the status of applications and the recruiting process. This is a limited appointment position.

Department: Hammer Store

Salary: $21.93 to $23.17; salary placement based on skills, knowledge, and experience

Job Summary Statement: The Hammer Store seeks a Stock Associate. The Stock Associate is responsible for implementing the day-to-day activities and back-of-the-house retail operations of the Museum Store. Working closely with the Store Buying Manager, the primary responsibilities include merchandise receiving, processing, and payment.

To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter to resumes@hammer.ucla.edu with “Stock Associate application” in the subject line. Selected applicants will be contacted.

Department: Hammer Store

Salary: $21.24-$22.65 hourly; salary placement based on skills, knowledge, and experience

Job Summary Statement:

The Hammer Store seeks a part-time Store Clerk. The Store Clerk assists with the day-to-day operations of the Hammer Museum’s Bookstore, which includes assisting bookstore customers with purchases, answering museum visitors’ questions, compiling daily sales reports, daily cash control responsibilities, annual inventory, shipping and receiving store merchandise and assisting with stock pricing and displays.

To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter to resumes@hammer.ucla.edu with “Store Clerk application” in the subject line. Selected applicants will be contacted.

Salary: $31.05 hourly.

The part time AV Technician will assist the AV Supervisors with the general technical support for the operations of the Event spaces and the delivery of AV services throughout the Museum. The AV Technician will deliver AV services in a manner consistent with Museum policies and professional standards. The AV Technician executes regular and seasonal maintenance to ensure safe working procedures and will address or escalate any safety issues as they arise. Under close supervision, the AV Technician provides basic Event Production support with the set up and operation of Audio, Video, and Lighting gear.

The general AV technical support will be based on the specific Event needs of each shift. The AV Technician has a general understanding of the tools, equipment, and protocols used in Live Event Production, and has the ability to apply this knowledge in a team setting in order to provide safe and timely assistance for event set-up, operations and strike.

Application: Please email a resume to resumes@hammer.ucla.edu and include "Part-time AV Technician" in the subject line. Selected applicants will be contacted. Due to the volume of resumes that we receive, we are regretfully unable to respond to phone calls and emails regarding the status of applications and the recruiting process. This is a limited appointment position.

Salary: $31.05 hourly

Job Summary: The Part-Time AV Technician, Exhibitions will support the AV Supervisor in providing technical assistance for the operation of exhibition spaces and the delivery of AV services throughout the Hammer Museum. The Exhibitions AV Technician will adhere to Museum policies and professional standards, ensuring the highest quality of AV service. Responsibilities include regular and seasonal maintenance to ensure safe working procedures, and addressing or escalating any safety issues as they arise.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in setting up and maintaining audio, video, and power equipment for exhibitions.
• Provide general technical support based on the specific needs of each exhibition.
• Execute regular and seasonal maintenance to ensure safe working conditions.
• Apply knowledge of AV tools, equipment, and protocols in a team setting to support exhibition installation, operation, and deinstallation.
• Ensure all work is performed in a manner consistent with Museum policies and professional standards.

Qualifications:

• General understanding of AV tools, equipment, and production protocols.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe and professional working environment.

To apply, please email your resume to resumes@hammer.ucla.edu with “Part-Time AV Technician, Exhibitions” in the subject line. Selected applicants will be contacted for interviews. Due to the volume of applications, we regret that we cannot respond to phone calls or emails regarding the status of applications.

Salary: $25 hourly; salary placement based on skills, knowledge, and experience.

The Hammer Museum’s Security Part-Time Security Officers primary responsibilities are to observe and report activities and incidents during special events/programs and interact with visitors, vendors, and employees while enforcing Museum security and safety policies. Duties include providing access and/or escorts to visitors, vendors, and employees to public/restricted area. Additional duties may include safeguarding the Museum’s collections, temporary exhibitions, property, employees, and visitors through highly proactive, appropriately preemptive, and immediately responsive action. Security Officers inspect and patrol all Museum spaces on foot; monitor and operate computerized alarm, access, and closed circuit television systems; watch for, report, and address potential security and safety hazards and problems; check entrances and exits; and perform dispatch duties. They maintain and file security logs and reports, and perform other security duties as assigned by supervisors and management.

Requirements:

• 1+ year of experience in Security field required.
• Ability to observe, report, and respond to safety and security issues in both public and sensitive museum areas.
• Ability to think on one’s feet, exercise good judgment, and respond appropriately.
• Skill in interacting diplomatically with the public in a high-volume, continuous-public-contact setting.
• Ability to maintain composure in the face of resistance and hostility.
• Ability to provide excellent customer service.
• Ability to learn and operate Museum’s Access Control, Camera, Radio and Daily Log systems.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English verbally and in writing.
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential matters with discretion and tact.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Physical abilities to perform all core functions and duties.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including overtime and varying shifts, as required.
• Physical abilities to perform all core functions and duties, including but not limited to the ability to talk; hear; stand and walk for extended periods; climb stairs; push; pull; reach; occasionally lift up to 50 pounds; manual dexterity to operate a computer; visual acuity including but not limited to color vision, depth perception, central and peripheral vision, distance vision; visual acuity to read and view computer and video monitors; ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions; ability to work overtime and varying shifts as required.

This is a two day per week position. Currently looking for applicants that are available to work Friday-Sunday from 7:45am-4:15pm or Friday-Sunday from 3:45pm-12:15am. Other shifts may be available based on applicant’s availability.

Application: Please email resume and cover letter to resumes@hammer.ucla.edu and include "Part-Time Security Ambassador" in the subject line. Selected applicants will be contacted. Due to the volume of resumes that we receive, we are regretfully unable to respond to phone calls and emails regarding the status of applications and the recruiting process.

Department: Development

Salary: $18.60/hour 

Job Summary: The Development Student Assistant will support the Hammer Museum development team, reporting directly to the Manager of Annual Giving, with a variety of administrative tasks related to the daily operations of the department including: support with mailing, proposal development, prospect research, archiving development related materials; support the planning and organization of donor and membership events, including the K.A.M.P, Gala and other special events; event planning such as creating invitations, event check-in, managing event inventory, event set-up/tear down, and providing guests with exceptional visitor experience. This is a great opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge of fundraising work, event management and arts administration.

Days/Hours: 8-12 hours per week. Must be available during regular business hours (10am-6pm), evenings, and weekends.

Qualifications: 

• Registered UCLA undergraduate student in the 2024-2025 academic year. 
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills. 
• Must be detail-oriented and dedicated. 
• Enthusiasm for the arts. 
• Comfortable working in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. 
• Required working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.

To apply, please submit a resume, cover letter, and work availability to resumes@hammer.ucla.edu and include "Development Student Assistant" in the subject line. Selected applicants will be contacted. 

Due to the volume of resumes that we receive, we are regretfully unable to respond to phone calls and emails regarding the status of applications and the recruiting process.

Student Educators are paid UCLA students from diverse disciplines who lead tours for all audiences. Student Educators participate in mandatory summer training and extensive professional development throughout the year. As the museum’s core teaching staff, student educators lead public and private tours, support family programming, and assist with curator walk-throughs. Student Educators are typically hired in Spring Quarter for the following academic year. Please contact academicprograms@hammer.ucla.edu for more information.

Department: Facilities

Salary: $18.60 hourly

The Facilities Student Assistant is responsible for setup and breakdown for various Museum programs and events. The Facilities Student Assistant will help with tasks such as setup of tables and chairs, moving furniture, clean-up and general event duties. They will assist in all aspects of custodial and clean-up duties, including but not limited to: trash removal and disposal, sweeping, mopping, cleaning and restocking restrooms, dusting, and vacuuming of public and administration areas of the building.

Days/Hours: 15-18 hours per week; some afternoons/evenings/weekends required.

Qualifications:

• Helpful attitude and the ability to work within a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Willingness to learn from the full-time staff.
• Ability to operate various types of cleaning equipment (vacuum) and move equipment and furniture (up to 40 lbs).
• Ability to read floor plans (table and chair layout) and follow instructions.
• Job requires a basic working knowledge of cleaning materials.
• Attention to detail on all levels of the job to maintain a clean and orderly building and event.
• Ability to stand, stoop, kneel and lift when necessary as the job requires.
• Some prior work experience in housekeeping or custodial work is ideal but not required.
• Must be focused on customer service and committed to providing our staff and guests with an attractive, clean, and healthy educational environment.
• UCLA enrolled student preferred.

To apply, please submit a resume, cover letter, and work availability to resumes@hammer.ucla.edu, with “Facilities Student Assistant” in the subject line.

Due to the volume of resumes that we receive, we are regretfully unable to respond to phone calls and emails regarding the status of applications and the recruiting process.

Department: Finance

Salary: $18.60/hour

Job Summary:

Hammer Museum Finance Department Student Employee provides clerical support to the Finance Department staff, including invoice processing, office supply inventory and ordering, filing and record retention management, basic data entry and general office support.

Days/Hours: Availability during the following times: Tuesday-Thursday, 9:00 AM- 6:00 PM. (min. 10 hours to max. 20 hours per week)

Qualifications:

• Registered UCLA undergraduate student or UCLA Extension Student.
• Accuracy and attention to detail.
• Good oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently with direction.
• Previous office experience helpful but not necessary.

To apply, please submit a resume, cover letter, and work availability to resumes@hammer.ucla.edu and include "Finance Student Assistant" in the subject line. Selected applicants will be contacted.

Due to the volume of resumes that we receive, we are regretfully unable to respond to phone calls and emails regarding the status of applications and the recruiting process.

Department: Visitor Experience

Salary: $18.20 hourly

The Frontline Ambassador position aims to create a welcoming and engaging experience for visitors that carries out the Hammer’s mission. A Frontline Ambassador is responsible for engaging with the public, answering questions, providing information about the exhibitions, and promoting membership. There are additional opportunities to assist with public programs in the Billy Wilder Theater, and assist with special events. This position reports to the Associate Director, Visitor Experience and Gallery Operations with direction and oversight from Visitor Experience Leads.

Days/Hours: Approximately 15 hours/week, or as needed for operations.

Qualifications:

Must be Registered Full-time Undergraduate Student

• Ability to work a variable weekly schedule; Must have availability for at least one 10:30 a.m.–6:15 p.m. shift Tuesday, Wednesdays, or Thursday, as well as one other shift Friday, Saturday, or Sunday.
• Customer service experience/interest; prior retail, food service, hospitality, or museum work preferred
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; able to conduct oneself in a polite and professional manner in a variety of situations
• Ability to assert oneself when needed in order to enforce policies and protect artwork
• Ability to use good judgment and to respond in handling crowds while remaining calm and presenting a professional demeanor
• Ability to stand for long periods of time
• Experience with, knowledge of, appreciation for, or interest in visual art with emphasis on contemporary work

To apply please submit a resume, cover letter, and work availability to resumes@hammer.ucla.edu, with "Frontline Ambassador" in the subject line.

Due to the volume of resumes that we receive, we are regretfully unable to respond to phone calls and emails regarding the status of applications and the recruiting process.

Department: Gallery Operations

Salary: $18.20 hourly

The Gallery Ambassador position combines the responsibilities of art protection with museum information and art appreciation. The primary responsibility of a Gallery Ambassador is the safety of the artwork and enforcement of museum policies. A Gallery Ambassador is responsible for monitoring the gallery spaces and protecting the art while engaging with the public to answer questions and provide information about the exhibits and the Hammer. A Gallery Ambassador also provides exceptional customer service by greeting visitors as they enter the galleries and ensuring that all guests have proper access.

Days/Hours: Approximately 15–18 hrs/week, or as needed for operations. Must be able to commit to a set schedule each quarter.

Qualifications:

• Must be Registered Full-time Undergraduate Student
• Experience/interest in working in a dynamic environment with both fast-paced and slower settings
• Customer service experience
• Ability to work a variable weekly schedule; Must have availability for at least one 10:30am-6:15pm shift Tuesday-Friday, and at least one shift either 10:30am-2:45pm or 2:15pm-6:15pm on Saturday or Sunday
• Ability to stand for long periods of time
• Ability to wear a mask for long periods of time
• Solid interpersonal and communication skills
• Friendly and outgoing, able to conduct oneself in a polite and professional manner in a variety of situations
• Ability to assert oneself when needed in order to enforce policies and protect artwork
• Ability to use good judgment and to respond to visitor feedback and inquiries
• Experience with, knowledge of, appreciation for, or interest in visual art, especially contemporary

To apply, please submit a resume, cover letter, and work availability to resumes@hammer.ucla.edu, with "Gallery Ambassador" in the subject line.

Due to the volume of resumes we receive, we are regretfully unable to respond to phone calls and emails regarding the status of applications and the recruiting process.

Department: IT

Salary: $18.60 hourly

Job Summary Statement: The incumbent will assist with technology-related troubleshooting for the Hammer Museum. This will include assisting staff in resolving helpdesk tickets, which may include issues with: Windows, Mac OSX, Microsoft Office 365, networking and WiFi, Internet connection, printers, toner, etc. Experience with configuring devices such as iPhones, iPads, VOIP phones is a big plus. This role offers an opportunity to work in an environment where art and technology meet.

Days/Hours: Approximately 8-12 hrs/week, or as needed for operations. Must be able to commit to a set schedule each quarter and be flexible for evening and weekend art-focused events, concerts, etc.

Qualifications:

• Registered UCLA undergraduate student in the academic year;
• Reliable, punctual, and ability to work independently;
• Strong customer service and organizational skills;
• Strong written and verbal communication skills;
• Interested in computers and technology;
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel;
• Office experience a plus.

To apply, please submit a resume, cover letter, and work availability to resumes@hammer.ucla.edu, with “IT Student Assistant” in the subject line. Due to the volume of resumes that we receive, we are regretfully unable to respond to phone calls and emails regarding the status of applications and the recruiting process.

Due to the volume of resumes that we receive, we are regretfully unable to respond to phone calls and emails regarding the status of applications and the recruiting process.