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Museum Accounting Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

National Inventors Hall of Fame

Museum Manager

Alexandria, VA

$63K - $72K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Museum Manager will facilitate the day-to-day operations of the National Inventors Hall of Fame ... Responsible for daily accounting, receiving merchandise, operating reports, and tracking of all ...

International-Spy-Museum

Vice President of Finance

Washington, DC · On-site

$210 - $225/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The position leads the Museum's financial strategy, planning, reporting, controls, and finance ... The VP oversees the finance and accounting team, strengthens systems and processes, supports board ...

All JobsMuseum Accounting JobsMuseum Accounting Jobs in Washington

Museum Accounting information

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.

What are popular job titles related to Museum Accounting jobs in Washington?

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

What job categories do people searching Museum Accounting jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Museum Accounting jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Museum Accounting jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Museum Accounting job openings:

Museum Accounting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Accounting job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Museum Manager

National Inventors Hall of Fame

Alexandria, VA

$63K - $72K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

The Museum Manager will facilitate the day-to-day operations of the National Inventors Hall of Fame Museum and store. This position will be responsible for interfacing with the USPTO, running the NIHF Museum, coordinating museum store sales, and delivering exceptional guest service. The position will also support other recognition programs.
Position Responsibilities:
  • Leads and mentors on-site staff in the use of proven techniques to properly service guests, run the museum and exhibits, promote sales, and effectively address any issues.
  • Provide leadership, communication, coaching, and development to the Museum Associate team, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
  • Interview and train high quality Museum Associates, as needed.
  • Coordinates with staff at headquarters to achieve museum responsibilities.
  • Coordinates with USPTO regarding special events, VIP visitors, and other matters.
  • Demonstrates superior guest services and professionalism to ensure a positive museum experience for visitors.
  • Provides on-site interface for USPTO.
  • Maintains a thorough understanding of all levels of the daily museum and retail operating procedures, ensuring that exhibits and other systems are in good working order and maintaining Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and process documentation.
  • Responsible for daily accounting, receiving merchandise, operating reports, and tracking of all purchases and sales. Maintains appropriate visual merchandising and product display, promotional planning and implementation, and inventory control for increased store profitability to meet museum store sales goals.
  • Identifies opportunities to promote the NIHF and museum as a destination for area schools, visitor bureaus, and hotels.
  • Develops a well-versed and current knowledge of the offerings of the NIHF, museum, and store, demonstrating a high level of professional courtesy in all interactions with visitors and co-workers.
  • Schedules, leads, and/or manages group tours.
  • Work closely with Ohio staff to plan and execute museum installations, providing hands-on support throughout the year.
  • Coordinates on-site museum events and meetings for NIHF or other partners.
  • Participate in physical lifting, climbing (ladders), and other hands-on museum maintenance.
  • Conduct minor hands-on exhibit repair and maintenance under guidance of Ohio-based facilities and IT staff.
  • In coordination with Ohio office, manage and track all artifact loans and purchases.
  • Ensure appropriate on-site care and handling of all artifacts on display at NIHF Museum.
  • Support needs related to NIHF Inductee content, such as the organization, documentation, and transcription of Inductee interviews; as well as provide writing support for NIHF Musuem exhibits.
  • Coordinate and provide support for NIHF recognition programs, such as the annual Induction event and the Collegiate Inventors Competition, and Museum and special projects.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Adept verbal and written communicator with a demonstrated comfort level in speaking publicly
  • Must possess solid computer skills
  • Ability to problem solve and work independently
  • Must be able to work efficiently under pressure
  • Self-directed, motivated, flexible
  • Ability to interact with all levels of professional contacts, including executives, civil servants, inventors, scientists, members of the public
  • Ability to regularly work in the office and attend in-person meetings
  • Ability to communicate effectively via email, chat, phone, and in-person meetings
  • Requires regular, reliable, and on-time attendance
Credentials and Experience:
  • Bachelor’s degree in communications, history, history of technology, marketing, or related areas
  • Master’s degree in history, history of technology, or related areas preferred
  • 3+ years of management, retail, and/or related work experience required
  • Museum/specialty retail background with an understanding of specialty retail concepts
  • Proven experience in cash management and budgetary accountability
Special Requirements
  • This position requires coverage for monthly Saturday operating hours as needed and occasional attendance at special events outside of normal hours.
​Salary
  • $63,000-$72,000
Why Join the National Inventors Hall of Fame?
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Enjoy top-tier medical, dental, 100% employer paid vision, and insurance plans, along with flexible spending accounts to help pay for any out-of-pocket medical expenses.
  • Company-Paid Benefits: NIHF contributes 100% to provide life and disability coverages.
  • Secure Your Future: Benefit from our 401(k) plan with up to a 4% employer match and 100% vesting upon initial contribution, ensuring your financial stability and growth.
  • Generous Time Off: Take advantage of paid time off, paid holidays, and a year-end closure from December 24th through January 1st to recharge.
  • Additional Support: Access Critical Illness, Hospital, and Accident Supplemental Income plans for extra peace of mind.
  • Pet-Friendly Perks: Protect your furry friends with our pet insurance plans.
  • Thriving Work Environment: Be part of a great team environment with ample opportunities for growth and a culture that prioritizes professional development.

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