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Museum Accounting Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Museum Accounting information

See Colorado salary details

$13

$23

$31

How much do museum accounting jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum accounting in Colorado is $23.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $25.77 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 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.

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 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 popular job titles related to Museum Accounting jobs in Colorado?

For Museum Accounting jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Museum Accounting job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,294 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Receiving Associate for Temporary Exhibit

Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Denver, CO • On-site

$20.50 - $21/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Description
Are you a fan of organizing? Do you like to see new and exciting products before anyone else? This is the position for you! Come join our team at the Museum and be part of our receiving team for our temporary exhibits!
This position receives records and stocks inventory of shop merchandise shipments in accordance with established DMNS accounting procedures and policies. Ensures merchandise is received, priced and stocked in an expedited manner so that merchandise can be turned in a timely manner.
This is a Full-Time, Temporary position from September 2026 through April 15, 2027.
Job Class: Full Time
Hiring Range: $20.50 - $21.00/hour
Essential Duties
  • Takes direction regarding receiving procedures: This includes entering purchase orders accurately, inspecting, tagging, and receiving merchandise.
  • Able to fully complete the order process for all types of merchandise. (Counting, receiving, posting, entering accounts correctly in accounting software and putting away all items.)
  • Stays on top of frequently challenging inventory, including adjusting the negative report and cycle counting the most problematic companies and/or product before receiving them.
  • Participates in daily communication regarding status of inventory process, invoices and pricing.
  • Handles issues and vendor communications in a timely manner. Updates management regularly.
  • Performs general housekeeping, maintenance, and organization of inventory areas to ensure the warehouse and receiving area is maintained, clean, accessible, and safe.
  • Breaks down and discards or recycles empty packaging.
  • Distributes inventory to appropriate Museum Shop areas. Assists with stocking adn storing of all merchandise.

Minimum Qualifications
  • High School diploma, or equivalent
  • 1 year of experience with inventory processing
  • 2 years of experience working in a fast-paced retail environment
  • Able to work evenings, weekends and holidays, as needed

Ideal Candidate Will Be/Have:
  • Strong organization Skills
  • Positive attitude
  • Good communication skills

Application Instructions
Please submit your resume by 6:00 p.m. MT on August 28, 2026. Applications will not be accepted after this time. DMNS reserves the right to close the position prior to this date. Applications may only be accepted electronically via the Museum's website.
DMNS Core Values
  • We love science.
  • We are curious, creative, and playful.
  • We cultivate relationships with each other, diverse communities, the environment, and for our future.
  • We think critically and act with empathy.
Perks of Working at DMNS
Click HERE (https://www.dmns.org/about/careers/benefits/) to learn more about the benefits package offered to DMNS staff.
Due to the high volume of people who apply, we are not able to respond to specific inquiries regarding your application status.
The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is an equal opportunity employer. The Museum is dedicated to the goal of building a culturally diverse staff committed to serving the needs of all our visitors, and we encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.