Junior Photographer (16-month FTC)
| Posting date: | 25 February 2026 |
|---|---|
| Salary: | £28,325 per year |
| Additional salary information: | 16-month FTC |
| Hours: | Full time |
| Closing date: | 11 March 2026 |
| Location: | London, London, SW7 2DD |
| Company: | Science Museum Group |
| Job type: | Temporary |
| Job reference: | SMG03441_1772016680 |
Summary
Do you have the technical skill, judgement and curiosity to photograph objects that carry real cultural and historical weight?
About us
The Science Museum in London is part of the Science Museum Group, along with the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford, the Science and Industry Museum in Manchester, the National Railway Museum in York and Locomotion in Shildon, Co Durham.
As the world's leading group of science museums, we share our unparalleled collection-spanning science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine-with over five million visitors each year.
Visit the Science Museum Group website to find out more.
About the role
Based in a temporary studio in the heart of the museum at South Kensington, we are seeking one Junior Photographer to undertake large scale, rapid, professional imaging of museum objects. The Junior Photographer will be working with a Photographer, Documentation Officer, Collections Project Officers, and Conservators to provide high quality images of the collection.
This role will be crucial in delivering the first phase of a major masterplan redevelopment on time and within budget. This is an inspiring opportunity for an early career photographer to move into the cultural heritage sector and to work with a range of small to supersize collection objects. If you are a problem solver, with a keen sense of ethical judgement and the desire to utilise your photography skills in a specialist environment, we would like to hear from you.
You will be self-motivated to optimise your time, be able to work effectively in a team, and you will be comfortable communicating with a range of people. You will be willing and able to take on a wide variety of tasks to support the project as well as being part of a busy studio servicing a multitude of functions throughout the museum.
This is a 16-month fixed term contract until 31st July 2027, advertised for 35 hours per week, working on-site Monday to Friday and you will be based at the Science Museum in London.
About you
We're particularly keen to hear from natural problem solvers who don't sit on the sidelines when things go quiet, but instead look for ways to add value, improve processes and support the team. You'll bring sound judgement and confident decision-making, with the ability to assess situations thoughtfully and understand why certain standards and approaches matter, especially when working with material of cultural and historical significance. An ethical mindset and an appreciation of the responsibility that comes with producing accurate, high-quality imagery are essential.
Technically, you'll have a solid foundation in photography and digital imaging software, with the ability to follow established procedures meticulously to meet imaging standards while delivering a high volume of work. You take pride in consistency and professionalism, work proactively using your own initiative, and are motivated to keep learning and developing your craft. You'll enjoy working collaboratively, contributing positively to a team environment.
It would be advantageous if you have experience using Capture One and Adobe software (particularly Photoshop and Bridge), as well as experience in the cultural heritage sector or related photographic fields. Confidence handling museum objects, ideally within a heritage environment, and an understanding of architectural geometry, framing and composition for large interiors would also be beneficial.
Applying
View the Vacancy Information Pack listed under 'Attachments' on the vacancy listing on our website for more details about the role and the application process or click 'Apply Online' to submit an application.
What we offer
Working with a world-leading museum group that offers access to truly unique environments and collections, you'll benefit from the perks listed below, as well as full support for life events such as parental and adoption leave, sickness, and career breaks.
- Meaningful work. We're a mission-led organisation where the work you do supports us in Inspiring Futures.
- Career growth. We offer enhanced support with personal and professional development.
- Work/life balance. We offer 27 days annual leave in addition to bank holidays, along with flexible policies which support you and your home life.
- Health & Dental Insurance. Extra peace of mind, from day one.
- All our colleagues can access an employee assistance programme, access to the Unmind app, and other wellbeing support.
- Colleague networks. Our colleague-led networks are an informal forum for colleagues to come together to discuss topics of shared interest and lived experience. They create a space for people to exchange ideas, discuss best practice, socialise and build a sense of community.
- Enhanced contributory pension. To support you in saving for the future.
- Interest-free loans. When you need a little extra cash for life events or home improvements.
- Great discounts. Free entry to exhibitions, discounts in our shops, cafes, and access to other museums in the NMDC network.
Open for All is one of the Science Museum Group's five core values and sets out our important aspiration to be a place for everyone. We are working hard to understand our organisation better and to develop a culture that recognises and values different backgrounds, mindsets, skills, experience, knowledge, and expertise. By having greater diversity, we believe that we will be a stronger and better organisation, capable to continue to Inspire Futures.