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Museum Archivist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Situated in downtown Norfolk, VA the Memorial consists of a museum, archive and research center, education center, theater, welcome center, and a gift shop. A visit to the Memorial will allow you to ...

Museum Technician PT

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$18.67 - $32.85/hr

Part-time Museum Technician The City of Alexandria is located in northern Virginia and is bordered ... Maintains, organizes, archives, applies metadata to and updates archaeology files on all Code ...

Museum Technician PT

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$18.67 - $32.85/hr

N/A Part-time Museum Technician The City of Alexandria is located in northern Virginia and is ... Maintains, organizes, archives, applies metadata to and updates archaeology files on all Code ...

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Museum Archivist information

See Virginia salary details

$28.3K

$72.2K

$118K

How much do museum archivist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for museum archivist in Virginia is $72,157.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $82,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a museum archivist do?

As a museum archivist, you help appraise and maintain the materials and documents associated with a specific collection. In this role, you may help restore historical items, research this history of specific objects, oversee other museum staff, and otherwise authenticate various materials. Museum archivists also help coordinate educational study programs, manage tours and workshops, and otherwise help keep the museum functioning. Archivists usually work for curators, who serve as directors and help manage the daily operations of each facility. Many museum archivists specialize in specific areas, such as botany, geography, or metallurgy, and what you specialize in can affect the number and type of archivist roles you qualify for.

What does a museum archivist do?

A Museum Archivist is responsible for preserving, organizing, and managing the historical records and documents of a museum. Their tasks include cataloging and maintaining archives, ensuring the proper storage and conservation of materials, and making these records accessible to researchers and the public. Archivists may also assist with exhibitions, digitalization projects, and educating staff or visitors about the museum's collections. Their work is essential for safeguarding the museum’s history and supporting research activities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a museum archivist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Museum Archivist, you need expertise in archival science, records management, and preservation techniques, usually supported by a degree in library science, history, or a related field. Familiarity with digital asset management systems, cataloging software, and archival standards such as DACS or EAD is typically required. Attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to communicate clearly with diverse stakeholders are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure the accurate preservation, organization, and accessibility of valuable museum collections for research, education, and public engagement.

What are some common challenges faced by museum archivists when managing large or diverse collections?

Museum archivists often encounter challenges such as limited storage space, preservation of delicate or aging materials, and the need to balance accessibility with security. Managing large or diverse collections requires meticulous organization and the adoption of digital cataloging systems to ensure accurate tracking and retrieval. Additionally, archivists must stay updated on best practices for preservation and digitization to protect artifacts while making them available for research and exhibitions.

Are museum archivists in demand?

Museum archivists are in steady demand due to ongoing needs for preserving and managing historical collections. Employment opportunities often depend on the size of the institution, funding, and the archivist's skills in cataloging, digital tools, and conservation. Job growth is expected to be steady, with competition for positions in larger or specialized museums.

What do museum archivists do in museums?

Museum archivists organize, catalog, and preserve historical documents, photographs, and artifacts to ensure their long-term accessibility. They often use specialized software for digital records and may conduct research or assist visitors with archival materials.

What are the most commonly searched types of Museum Archivist jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Museum Archivist jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Museum Archivist jobs in Virginia?

For Museum Archivist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Museum Archivist jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Museum Archivist jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Museum Archivist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Museum Archivist job openings:

Infographic showing various Museum Archivist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,157 per year, or $34.7 per hour.
City of Norfolk
Public Administration • 11 - 50 employees

$40K - $68K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Description The MacArthur Memorial is a museum and research center dedicated to preserving and presenting the story of the life of General of the Army Douglas MacArthur. The Memorial also pays tribute to the millions of men and women who served with General MacArthur in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. Situated in downtown Norfolk, VA the Memorial consists of a museum, archive and research center, education center, theater, welcome center, and a gift shop.

A visit to the Memorial will allow you to explore the life of one of America's greatest and most complex leaders. We are seeking a Museum Attendant to serve as a front-line visitor services representative, facilities security, and assisting during special events. This position is essential to providing outstanding customer service while aiding in public education and historic preservation.

Department Hiring Salary Range: $40,768 Essential Functions Essential functions include but are not limited to: Provides visitors with informational materials and answers questions regarding General Douglas MacArthur and United States history. Opens & closes facilities; sets security alarms. Regularly inspects facilities and displays for security, temperature, and humidity.

Monitors visitor activity to ensure compliance with established regulations, safety practices, and laws. Answers phone and in-person inquiries in a courteous and efficient manner; refers calls to appropriate person or office; takes messages. Greets visitors and provides appropriate direction.

Corrects and/or reports unsafe conditions and inoperable equipment. Compiles records, tabulates attendance, and prepares simple reports. Requires knowledge of excellent customer service methods of interaction with the public to foster mutual respect.

Requires ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Requires ability to perform basic clerical tasks. Requires ability to make independent decisions.

Must be able to raise and lower several flags on outdoor flagpoles, including climbing stairways/ladders in Memorial dome to raise and lower dome flag. Must be able to operate telephone, audio/visual, and security equipment. Education/Experience Work requires knowledge necessary to understand basic operational, technical, or office processes.

Level of knowledge equivalent to four years of high school or equivalency. Six months in Security, Customer Service, Office Administration; or in a museum environment, depending on assignment. Academic coursework in U.S

History, World History (20th century), or Museum Studies preferred. The preferred candidate will possess excellent interpersonal skills, an interest in history and basic knowledge of museum best practices; will demonstrate the ability to work as a team member to provide excellent customer service to museum visitors; experience with basic audio-visual systems. Additional Information & Requirements Work Location: 198 Bank Street, MacArthur Square, Norfolk, VA 23510 Work Hours: 40 hours per week; part or full days 8:45 AM - 5:15 PM Tue-Sat.

Some Holiday work.