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Docent Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

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Docent information

See Ohio salary details

$5

$18

$24

How much do docent jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for docent in Ohio is $18.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.70 and $24.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do docents make money?

Docents are typically volunteers who lead tours and provide educational information at museums, zoos, or cultural sites, and they usually do not receive a salary. Some institutions may offer stipends or small honorariums for their work, but most rely on volunteer efforts. Paid positions for docents are less common and often require additional qualifications or experience.

How does a docent typically collaborate with other museum staff to enhance visitor experiences?

Docents often work closely with curators, educators, and visitor services teams to ensure that tours and educational programs are engaging and accurate. They attend regular training sessions to stay updated on new exhibits and interpretive techniques, and may participate in planning meetings to coordinate special events or group visits. This collaboration helps create a cohesive visitor experience, as docents share insights from guest interactions that can inform exhibit updates and educational materials.

What is the difference between Docent vs Tour Guide?

AspectDocentTour Guide
Required CredentialsOften no formal certification, but knowledge of subject matterMay require licensing or certification depending on location
Work EnvironmentMuseums, galleries, educational institutionsTourist attractions, historical sites, city tours
Employer & IndustryEducational and cultural institutionsTravel and tourism industry
Common Search & ComparisonEducational, museum-based rolesTravel, sightseeing roles

While both Docents and Tour Guides engage with the public and provide educational information, Docents typically work within museums or galleries focusing on specific exhibits and may not require formal certification. Tour Guides usually lead groups at tourist sites, often needing licensing or certification, and work in the travel and tourism industry. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right role based on your interests and qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Docent, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Docent, you need strong subject-matter expertise, excellent public speaking skills, and typically a background in education, history, or the arts. Familiarity with audio-visual equipment and visitor management systems is often required for effective presentations and group coordination. Exceptional interpersonal skills, enthusiasm, and adaptability help docents engage diverse audiences and foster memorable learning experiences. These skills ensure that visitors receive accurate information and an engaging, educational experience tailored to their interests.

Can I work at a museum without a degree?

Museum docents typically do not need a formal degree but should have good communication skills, knowledge of the exhibits, and often undergo training provided by the museum. Some positions may prefer or require relevant experience or certifications, but a degree is generally not mandatory for entry-level docent roles.

What are docents?

Docents are trained volunteers or staff members who serve as guides and educators at museums, zoos, historical sites, and other cultural institutions. They lead tours, answer visitor questions, and provide interpretive information about exhibits or collections. Docents play a key role in enhancing the visitor experience by making learning engaging and accessible. Their responsibilities may also include developing educational materials and participating in outreach programs.

What is the highest paying job at a museum?

The highest paying jobs at a museum are typically senior management roles such as museum directors or chief curators, who oversee operations, collections, and staff. These positions often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership skills, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the institution's size and funding.

What is the job description of a docent?

A docent is a volunteer or staff member who guides visitors through museums, galleries, or historical sites, providing educational information about exhibits and collections. They often lead tours, answer questions, and help enhance visitors' understanding and experience, typically requiring good communication skills and knowledge of the subject matter.
What are popular job titles related to Docent jobs in Ohio? For Docent jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Docent jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Docent jobs in Ohio are:
What are popular job titles related to Docent jobs in OH? For Docent jobs in OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Docent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Docent job openings in Ohio as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $39,335 per year, or $18.9 per hour.
Volunteer Docent, Schoenbrunn Village

Volunteer Docent, Schoenbrunn Village

Ohio History Connection

New Philadelphia, OH • On-site

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description



Position: Volunteer Docent, Schoenbrunn Village

Type: Volunteer

Schedule: Part-time, unpaid 3+-hour shifts. Saturday work may be required for programming.

Location: Schoenbrunn Village, New Philadelphia, OH

Reports to: Schoenbrunn Village Visitor Services Supervisor

Summary:

The Volunteer Docent provides a welcoming environment, guides visitors through the site and/or programs, and helps to care for the collections. Schoenbrunn Village, founded in 1772 as a Moravian mission among the Delaware people, was the first Christian settlement in Ohio. The site, restored to appear as it did more than two centuries ago, includes a number of buildings. Schoenbrunn Village offers programs for elementary, middle, and high school students, community organizations and much more.

Volunteer Docents sign up for one or more 3-4-hour shifts during the site's hours of operation.

Essential Functions:

  • Greet and welcome visitors
  • Conduct museum tours for approximately one hour in length for audiences of diverse backgrounds which may include school-age children, young adults, educators, seniors, visitors with special needs, and those for whom English is not their first language.
  • Maintain the security of the site and its collection during tours
  • Continually be aware and keep informed about changes on site or in the museum
  • Represent the site in a professional and courteous manner to members of the visiting public
  • Interact with program participants and visitors in a positive and engaging manner
  • Ensure tour and program materials are properly handled and maintained.
  • Assist with the set-up and take-down of program materials.

Required Competencies:

  • Must complete a background check
  • Must log volunteer hours
  • Must attend professional development and volunteer meetings
  • Comfortable speaking in front of groups
  • Desire to learn about history and share their knowledge
  • Reliable and punctual
  • Flexibility, enthusiasm, and an attitude of respect for working with diverse staff and visitors
  • Physically able to lead tours around the site and museum.

Education and Experience Outcomes:

  • Will learn about the history of Schoenbrunn Village and the Ohio History Connection
  • Will learn to work within a team environment
  • Will learn about aspects of visitor/hospitality services through training and on-the-job experience
  • Will gain an understanding of the inner workings of a non-profit museum

Application Instructions

To apply, visit www/ohiohistory.org/jobs and use the Applicant Tracking System to apply. Include resume, cover letter, and applicable application materials. For questions and accommodations, email applicant@ohiohistory.org or call 614-297-2500.

Apply