Retail Pathways Exploration Internship

Retail (Museum Shop) Pathways Exploration Internship (Temporary, Non-Exempt)

Why Join Us?

At the Denver Art Museum (DAM), we work together to build a world where art sparks creativity, and connects, inspires, and empowers people and communities.

The Pathways Exploration Internship Program (PEI) is an 11-week career training program that takes place from May 20th - August 7th, 2026. This program is available for current college students and early career professionals (max. 2-years post-grad) and provides paid exploratory opportunities for candidates whose identities may be considered underrepresented in arts and cultural fields. The intention of this program is to provide support and an understanding of different career pathways within a museum while developing skills necessary to pursue a career in the arts and cultural field.

Interns will be responsible for day-to-day department work, participation in PEI activities (professional development, check-ins, team-building opportunities, etc.), and a department project that will culminate in a presentation at the end of the summer.

This position contributes to the programs and initiatives of the Museum Shop. Experience the many aspects of this department with a combination of projects and daily responsibilities. The Retail intern will assist the buyer in creating an exciting and dynamic assortment for our Gift Shops that will continue to make us a destination retailer for unique gifts.

Be a part of a curious, respectful, dynamic, inclusive and creative team who are committed to creating memorable museum experiences for all! If you share our passion for creativity and community building, we encourage you to apply!

Schedule: A commitment of 32-40 hours per week over the course of 11 weeks is requested; hours are relatively flexible between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Program start date: May 20^th, 2026

Program end date: August 7^th, 2026

Pay Range: This is a paid position ($19.29 per hour). Course credit may be available through your academic program. Please contact your institution directly for eligibility.

Perks and Benefits: Free RTD EcoPass; free DAM Family Membership; 4 hours of personal time plus Colorado paid sick leave; Employee Assistance Program; subscription to Headspace; 403(b) Retirement Plan with immediate eligibility to contribute; those who meet the requirements after one year and 1,000 worked hours qualify for the 3% non-elective contribution and up to 2% match program; and more.

Please note: The Denver Art Museum does not provide parking for its employees.

What You'll Do

Department Specific Responsibilities:

• Assist in creating a dynamic assortment in our Gift Shops.
• Learn how to add items to our ECOMM site.
• Behind the scenes sku maintenance and invoicing.
• Proactively plan strategic merchandising standards.

General Internship Responsibilities:

• Participate in all Pathways Exploration Internship (PEI) related events, including professional development opportunities, panels, team building events, group check-ins, and department presentations.
• Contribute to a department project that encompasses the goals and objectives of your department and highlights your specific interests in the museum field.
• Present your department project at the end of the internship.

• Pursuing a degree or a recent graduate (max. 2 years post-grad. )
• Ability to work independently and with a team.
• Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Positive attitude and willingness to participate in group activities.
• Ability to contribute to several projects at once.
• Retail buying and merchandising passion.

What You Will Learn From Us

• Introductory skills for a career pathway in an arts and cultural organization.
• Cross-departmental collaboration.
• Networking Opportunities.
• Learn the basics of buying and how decisions are made to create an on brand assortment from beginning to end.
• Shopify knowledge that can lead you to a vast world of ECOMM business.
• Invoicing and analytical experience that can assist in accounting.

This position is not covered by a Collective Bargaining Agreement with AFSCME-CWU.

The DAM prioritizes adaptability and a human-centered work environment. We are happy to consider accommodations. This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the job.

Our Hiring Process and What to Expect

We know that searching for a job can be stressful, so we would like to give you an overview of the process to manage expectations.

• Application close date is February 2, 2026.
• Please submit a resume and answer all application questions to be considered for this role.
• This role will require an interview with the hiring panel. Interviews may be held in person or virtually depending on the candidate's location.
• Due to the high volume of applications, we are unable to respond to phone calls or emails regarding application status.
• Candidates selected for interviews will be contacted directly.

Who We Are

At the Denver Art Museum, we are deeply committed to standing against discrimination, violence, and hate in all forms against any individual or group. And we remain focused on fostering inclusion, equal opportunity, and belonging inside and out.

The museum serves as a platform for creative expression and community well-being by collecting and presenting work by artists from diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, including those communities that have been historically underrepresented in museums. We give space to a wide range of artist voices by sharing the work of and collaborating with artists and creatives from all races, backgrounds, and identities.

We believe that art and creativity have the power to promote mutual understanding and highlight our shared humanity-connecting, inspiring, and empowering people and communities. The museum's board of trustees, volunteers, and staff remain committed to being an anti-racist organization and making the Denver Art Museum an inclusive and diverse place where everyone always feels welcome.