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Museum Accounting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Brooklyn Museum

Controller

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$171K/yr

About the role The Controller is a senior financial leader responsible for stewarding the Brooklyn Museum's accounting operations, financial reporting, and compliance framework in service of the ...

Brooklyn Museum

Controller

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$171K/yr

About the role The Controller is a senior financial leader responsible for stewarding the Brooklyn Museum's accounting operations, financial reporting, and compliance framework in service of the ...

Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth

Controller

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

The Controller will ensure that the Museum maintains accounting records in accordance with GAAP and has adequate internal controls designed to mitigate risk and enhance the accuracy of the Museum ...

MoMA

Special Events Accountant

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$87K/yr

... Museum's Accounting Department. Specific responsibilities include: * Administers all aspects of accounting for the Special Events Department, including A/P (events, departmental expenses) with a ...

Incca

Special Events Accountant

Manhattan, NY

$92K/yr

... Museum's Accounting Department. Specific responsibilities include: * Administers all aspects of accounting for the Special Events Department, including A/P (events, departmental expenses) with a ...

The Newark Museum of Art

Controller

Newark, NJ · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

| Controller Division | Finance, Retail & Operations Department | Accounting Reporting Relationship | Interim CFO Consultant & Interim COO About The Newark Museum of Art : We acknowledge the ...

The Newark Museum of Art

Controller

Newark, NJ · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

| Controller Division | Finance, Retail & Operations Department | Accounting Reporting Relationship | Interim CFO Consultant & Interim COO About The Newark Museum of Art : We acknowledge the ...

Brown County

Museum Director

Green Bay, WI

$95K/yr

Job Summary Oversees the museum operations, provides for the collection and preservation ... Knowledge of accounting and budgeting. Knowledge of rules and regulations regarding non-profit ...

The Jewish Museum

Senior Accountant

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$80K - $101K/yr

The Jewish Museum is an art museum committed to illuminating the complexity and vibrancy of Jewish ... This individual owns key accounting processes end to end and must be comfortable working ...

Socket.dev

Chief Operations Officer

Tallahassee, FL · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

Provide hands-on leadership for the Museum's accounting and financial operations, including cash management, accounts payable and receivable, payroll coordination, general ledger oversight ...

New

Uw

Burke Museum Finance Specialist

Seattle, WA · Hybrid

$92K/yr

The Burke Museum has an outstanding opportunity for a Burke Museum Finance Specialist to join their ... Manage relationship and work with CPA team on annual audit/ review of the BMA; provide ...

Museum of Fine Arts

Senior Staff Accountant

Boston, MA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

... accounting activities, prepares and reviews financial reports, and contributes to the integrity of the Museum's financial records. Essential Functions: * Prepare journal entries and account ...

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All JobsMuseum Accounting Jobs

Museum Accounting information

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How much do museum accounting jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum accounting in the United States is $22.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is museum accounting?

Museum accounting is a specialized branch of accounting focused on managing and reporting the financial activities of museums. This includes budgeting, tracking donations and grant funds, managing endowments, and ensuring compliance with nonprofit financial regulations. Museum accountants also oversee the valuation and management of collections as assets, handle payroll, and prepare financial statements for audits and stakeholders. Their work ensures that museums remain financially sustainable and transparent in their operations.

What is the difference between Museum Accounting vs Museum Finance Coordinator?

AspectMuseum AccountingMuseum Finance Coordinator
Primary RoleManaging financial records, budgets, and accounting processes specific to museumsOverseeing financial planning, reporting, and coordination of budget activities within museums
Required CredentialsAccounting degree or CPA, familiarity with nonprofit accountingFinance or accounting background, often with project management skills
Work EnvironmentAccounting departments within museums, often in office settingsFinance teams in museum administration, involving collaboration across departments
Industry UsageCommonly used in museum financial managementUsed for financial planning and coordination in museums

While both roles involve financial responsibilities within museums, Museum Accounting focuses on managing financial records and compliance, whereas Museum Finance Coordinator emphasizes financial planning and coordination. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the museum industry.

What are some unique challenges faced by accountants working in a museum setting?

Accountants in museums often navigate complex funding structures, including grants, donations, and government subsidies, each with specific reporting requirements. They must also track and value diverse assets, such as art collections, which can present unique accounting and insurance considerations. Collaboration with curators, development staff, and external auditors is common, making strong communication skills essential. Additionally, museum accountants may be involved in budgeting for exhibitions and educational programs, requiring an understanding of both financial management and the museum's mission.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a museum accountant?

To thrive as a Museum Accountant, you need a solid background in accounting principles, financial reporting, and budgeting, typically supported by a degree in accounting or finance and relevant experience. Familiarity with accounting software (such as QuickBooks or Sage), fund accounting systems, and possibly a CPA certification are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and clear communication are essential for managing diverse funding sources and working with museum staff. These skills ensure accurate financial management, compliance with regulations, and effective support for the museum's mission and operations.
More about Museum Accounting jobs
What cities are hiring for Museum Accounting jobs? Cities with the most Museum Accounting job openings:
What states have the most Museum Accounting jobs? States with the most job openings for Museum Accounting jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Museum Accounting jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Museum Accounting jobs are:
Museum Accounting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Accounting job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,928 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Controller

Brooklyn Museum

Brooklyn, NY • On-site

$171K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Controller
Museum overview
The Brooklyn Museum is a world-renowned cultural institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing art, history, and heritage. Our mission is to bring people together through art and experiences that inspire celebration, compassion, courage, and the will to act. Our vision is to serve as an institution where art is a powerful force for personal transformation and social change. Celebrating our differences and learning about our diverse communities through our collections, exhibitions, and programming is the core of who we are and what we do.
We are committed to creating and cultivating a community of talented, passionate people who are inspired to make the Museum an important hub of community activity and a great global destination. Our staff have the opportunity to grow their professional skills and work collaboratively with colleagues they admire and respect. Read more about our story here.
About the role
The Controller is a senior financial leader responsible for stewarding the Brooklyn Museum's accounting operations, financial reporting, and compliance framework in service of the institution's mission and long-term sustainability. Reporting to the Director of Finance, the Controller provides hands-on leadership across core accounting functions while strengthening systems, controls, and processes appropriate to a complex, nonprofit cultural organization. This role partners closely with senior leadership, department heads, and external stakeholders (including our auditors and funding partners) to ensure transparency, accuracy, and sound financial governance.
Responsibilities
  • Lead all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable and receivable, cash management, fixed assets, month-end and year-end close, and payroll
  • Ensure timely, accurate preparation of internal and external financial statements in accordance with GAAP and nonprofit accounting standards
  • Oversee accounting for grants, contributions, restricted funds, endowment activity, and capital projects in compliance with donor, regulatory, and reporting requirements
  • Direct the annual audit process and serve as primary liaison with external auditors, tax preparers, and financial advisors
  • Maintain responsibility for required regulatory filings, including Form 990 and other federal, state, and local reports
  • Design, implement, and continuously improve accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls to manage risk and strengthen financial integrity
  • Partner with the Senior Director of Finance on budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and long-term financial planning by providing reliable financial analysis and insight
  • Support financial reporting and analysis for senior leadership, Finance Committee, and Board of Trustees as needed
  • Lead, coach, and develop accounting staff, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous process improvement
  • Collaborate across departments to improve financial practices, systems adoption, and financial literacy throughout the organization

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
  • CPA or equivalent professional credential strongly preferred
  • Extensive experience in senior accounting or controller roles, preferably within nonprofit, museum, or other mission-driven organizations
  • Expert knowledge of GAAP, nonprofit accounting standards, audit processes, and regulatory compliance requirements
  • Demonstrated experience managing audits, tax filings, grants accounting, and complex, restricted funding environments
  • Proven ability to evaluate and strengthen internal controls, accounting systems, and financial processes
  • Strong leadership and people management skills, with experience developing and mentoring accounting teams
  • Excellent analytical and communication skills, with the ability to translate complex financial information for non-financial stakeholders
  • Professional judgment, discretion, and the ability to operate effectively within a union-aware, collaborative organizational culture

Department: Finance
Reports to: Senior Director of Finance
Salary: $171,458
Union status: Non-Union
FLSA status: Exempt
Position type: Full-time
Schedule: 35 hours per week, Monday-Friday, 9 am-5 pm
Benefit Offerings
The Museum provides competitive compensation along with generous benefits and perks for all eligible employees. Individual benefit offerings may vary based on position type and union status.
  • Medical, dental, vision and life insurance
  • 401(k) Savings Plan and Pension Plan
  • Generous paid time off, including annual vacation leave, sick leave, and 13 Museum holidays
  • Short-term and long-term disability coverage
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) & Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) for eligible pre-tax health care, dependent care, and commuter expenses
  • Employee Assistant Program
  • Free admission to various NYC museums and cultural institutions
  • Early access to Museum exhibitions
  • Invitations to staff-only programs, tours, and on-site engagement events
  • Opportunities to participate in community initiatives and Museum programs
  • 40% discount for staff in Museum shops
  • 20% discount at Museum café
  • All positions are based in Brooklyn, New York, with some eligible for a hybrid work schedule (three days on-site / two days remote)

Apply Today
We recognize that it's unlikely that any candidate will meet 100% of the desired qualifications for a role. If much of this job description resonates with you, we strongly encourage you to apply today. We're committed to welcoming candidates with a wide range of experiences and perspectives - especially those who see themselves contributing to our mission to bring people together through art and experiences that inspire celebration, compassion, courage, and the will to act.
If you have questions about our online application system, please contact us at job.applicationquestions@brooklynmuseum.org

Apply