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Docent Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Global Resource Solutions, Inc.

$20.44/hr

Five years of relevant experience such as a visitor use assistant, docent, park guide, or in-person customer service. * Maintain basic computer skills, ability to operate kiosks and basic office ...

Global Resource Solutions, Inc.

$24 - $24.36/hr

Five years of relevant experience such as a visitor use assistant, docent, park guide, or in-person customer service. * Maintain basic computer skills, ability to operate kiosks and basic office ...

Maymont Foundation

PT Museum Interpreter

Richmond, VA · On-site

$15/hr

Oversee the tour process for the docent led tours. * Conducts general tours, special interpretation, and other programs. * Responsible for creating a welcoming, gracious, and informative experience ...

All JobsDocent JobsDocent Jobs in Virginia

Docent information

See Virginia salary details

$5

$19

$25

How much do docent jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for docent in Virginia is $19.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $25.24 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 the most commonly searched types of Docent jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Docent jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Docent jobs in Virginia? For Docent jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Docent jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Docent jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Docent jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Docent job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Docent jobs in VA? For Docent jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Docent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Docent job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $41,020 per year, or $19.7 per hour.
Visitor Information Assistance

Visitor Information Assistance

Global Resource Solutions, Inc.

On-site

$20.44/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Global Resource Solutions, Inc. (GRS) is seeking an enthusiastic, motivated and talented individual for the position of Visitor Information Assistants (VIA).

Job Description:

Summary: Visitor Information Assistants (VIA) provide directions, information and assistances to visitors and guest of Arlington National Cemetery.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Provide general information, directions, and other forms of assistance to visitors.
  • Understand and maintain knowledge of the ANC

Requirement:

  • An Associate’s Degree and no less than three years of relevant work experience such as a visitor use assistant, docent, park guide, or in-person customer service; or
  • Five years of relevant experience such as a visitor use assistant, docent, park guide, or in-person customer service.
  • Maintain basic computer skills, ability to operate kiosks and basic office equipment, and the ability to communicate clearly in written electronic mail (emails).
  • Personnel are required to have the ability to walk throughout the entire facility and stand constantly. This includes long distances, various hills/grades and all types of terrain.
  • VIA must be able to function outdoors in all types of weather.

Security Requirements:

  • Public Trust or Secret

Skills:

  • Must be able to read, write, speak and understand the English language with sufficient fluency to support the requirements within this contract
  • Possess required state motor vehicle licenses or certifications for operating equipment and vehicles used in the execution of this contract

Physical Requirements: This position requires constant standing and walking throughout the entire facility, to include long distances, various hills/grades, and types of terrain. This position is a year-around, outdoor position, and functions in all types of weather.

Communication: Excellent customer service via phone and face to face conversation, excellent written and oral command of English.

Additional Compensation: This position includes an additional $5.09 per hour up to 40 hours per week for Health & Welfare benefits in accordance with The McNamara-O’Hara Service Contract Act (SCA).

GRS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. GRS will continue to abide by obligations under VEVRRA and Section 503 physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristics that are protected by law.