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Historical Museum Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Minnesota

Museum Guide

Duluth, MN · On-site

$22.39 - $22.50/hr

It utilizes historic interpretive strategies to convey stories and ideas to a diverse audience through guided tours and programs. Museum Guides exhibit courteous, helpful, and friendly service to ...

Riley County, KS

As Needed Museum Asst

Manhattan, KS · On-site

College degree in history, museum studies, or related field is preferred. Experience : Knowledge of a body of standardized rules, procedures or operations to perform the full range of standard ...

Riley County

As Needed Museum Asst

Manhattan, KS · On-site

College degree in history, museum studies, or related field is preferred. Experience : Knowledge of a body of standardized rules, procedures or operations to perform the full range of standard ...

County of Riley

As Needed Museum Asst

Manhattan, KS · On-site

College degree in history, museum studies, or related field is preferred. Experience : Knowledge of a body of standardized rules, procedures or operations to perform the full range of standard ...

Historic Hudson Valley

Museum Educator

NY · On-site

$21/hr

Historic Hudson Valley is a Westchester-based cultural non-profit that welcomes visitors to four ... Museum Educators are expected to perform the following core tasks: * Tell the people-focused ...

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Historical Museum information

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$30.5K

$86.3K

$137.5K

How much do historical museum jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for historical museum in the United States is $86,335.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $105,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a historical museum?

A historical museum is an institution dedicated to preserving, interpreting, and exhibiting objects and artifacts that are significant to history. These museums showcase items such as documents, photographs, clothing, tools, and art that reflect important events, people, and cultures from the past. Historical museums aim to educate the public by providing context and stories behind the artifacts, helping visitors understand how history has shaped the present. They may focus on a specific region, era, or theme, and often offer interactive exhibits, guided tours, and educational programs.

What is the difference between Historical Museum vs Curator?

AspectHistorical MuseumCurator
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in history, museum studies, or related fieldDegree in history, archaeology, or museum studies; often advanced certifications
Work EnvironmentMuseum settings, public spaces, educational environmentsMuseum offices, galleries, research facilities
Employer & IndustryMuseums, cultural institutions, educational organizationsMuseums, galleries, cultural institutions
Common Search & ComparisonHistorical MuseumCurator

The main difference is that a Historical Museum is an institution that displays and preserves historical artifacts, while a Curator is a professional responsible for managing collections, organizing exhibitions, and maintaining the museum's integrity. The curator plays a key role within a historical museum, focusing on collection care and exhibit development.

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

To thrive as a Historical Museum Curator, you need expertise in history or museum studies, research skills, and usually a relevant degree, such as a master's in history, museum studies, or a related field. Familiarity with collections management software, digital archiving tools, and preservation methods is typically required. Strong communication, organizational, and public engagement skills help curators develop exhibits and connect with diverse audiences. These skills and qualities ensure that collections are well-preserved, educational programs are impactful, and the museum remains a vital community resource.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a historical museum setting?

Professionals in historical museums often encounter challenges such as balancing the preservation of delicate artifacts with the need to make them accessible to the public. They must also stay current with evolving technology to create engaging, educational exhibits while adhering to strict conservation standards. Additionally, staff frequently collaborate across departments—including curatorial, education, and visitor services—to develop programming that appeals to diverse audiences. Managing limited budgets and resources while striving to expand collections and outreach can also be a significant challenge.

What Are the Qualifications to Work in a Historical Museum?

The qualifications to work in a historical museum depend largely on the specific responsibilities of the job. A curator or researcher must have a background in history as well an advanced degree in museum studies or several years of experience. Development officers need to have a bachelor’s degree in finance, business administration, or a closely related field. Security guards and tour guides may need only a high school diploma or G.E.D. certificate. All jobs at historical museums require strong verbal communication skills and an interest in history and education.

More about Historical Museum jobs
What cities are hiring for Historical Museum jobs? Cities with the most Historical Museum job openings:
What states have the most Historical Museum jobs? States with the most job openings for Historical Museum jobs include:
Historical Museum jobs near you
Infographic showing various Historical Museum job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,335 per year, or $41.5 per hour.
Museum Guide

Museum Guide

University of Minnesota

Duluth, MN • On-site

$22.39 - $22.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Job Overview
The Museum Guide is a position that initiates and curates a unique experience for all guests touring Glensheen. This position guides guests through the mansion by providing historical
insight and information about the estate. It utilizes historic interpretive strategies to convey stories and ideas to a diverse audience through guided tours and programs. Museum Guides exhibit courteous, helpful, and friendly service to each visitor of Glensheen. Employees will gain applicable experience in customer service, communication, history, teamwork, events, and museum operations. Glensheen is open during most major holidays and University breaks; working some holidays and breaks is expected.
Job Duties
  • Greet Glensheen guests throughout the estate.
  • Deliver pertinent information touring information to guests.
  • Maintain and direct the flow of tour traffic on every floor of the mansion.
  • Deliver interpretive programs for guests, including guided tours.
  • Answer questions and provide general Glensheen information that is commonly requested by visitors.
  • Assist the Opener/Closer with the opening and closing of the facility.
  • Monitor activity in museum spaces, service areas, and grounds during guest hours by completing rounds and documenting findings.
  • Follow established protocols for safety, trespass prevention, and crisis management.
  • Provide basic first aid to staff and guests and complete the first report of injury documentation.
  • Inspect historic buildings for possible irregularities.
  • Support the protection of the collection by following museum protocol
  • Additional duties as assigned.

Job Expectations
  • Project a positive image and energy.
  • Demonstrate safe behaviors to others and take action to always put safety first.
  • Demonstrate courteous and respectful behavior to all guests, coworkers, volunteers and members of the Glensheen Staff.
  • Maintain a high level of customer service by ensuring that guests are assisted with any needs that may arise and respond appropriately.
  • Have a strong appreciation and respect for the Glensheen historic museum property and collection.
  • Be willing to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
  • Work some holidays and University breaks.
  • Attend scheduled Glensheen training sessions.
  • Demonstrate punctuality and maintain a professional appearance for assigned shifts.

Qualifications
  • High School Diploma/GED and one year museum/tourism experience. Training/education may substitute for some of the experience.
  • Ability to interact in a public setting in a respectful and professional manner.
  • Ability to read, write, and communicate in English.
  • Ability to safely lift 40 pounds with or without accommodations.
  • Ability to work varied night, weekend, and holiday hours.
  • Ability to meet the physical requirements of the assignment.

About the Department
Glensheen is the most visited house museum in Minnesota. In addition to the 39-room mansion, the estate includes a carriage house, gardener's cottage, boathouse, and 12 acres on the shores of Lake Superior. Glensheen is considered one of the most complete house museum collections in the country. Tours are offered year-round. Glensheen's event space is available for weddings, corporate gatherings, etc. Signature events are also offered throughout the year.
Pay and Benefits
Pay Range: $22.39 - $22.50 per hour ; depending on education/qualifications/experience.
Retirement plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications. Learn more about retirement plans .
How To Apply
Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.
Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.
To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.
Diversity
The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.
The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu
Employment Requirements
Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.
About University of Minnesota
University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD)
The University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD) consistently ranks among the top Midwestern, regional universities in U.S. News and World Report's "America's Best Colleges" issue.
Overlooking Lake Superior, UMD provides an alternative to both large research and small liberal arts environments and attracts students looking for a personalized learning experience on a medium-sized campus of a major university. A firm liberal arts foundation anchors a variety of traditional degree programs, as well as professional and graduate students that draw on UMD's many research institutes and labs.
At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.

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