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Museum Assistant Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

HILLWOOD MUSEUM

Sales Assoc.

Washington, DC · On-site

$20.14/hr

You will assist with the presentation of Hillwood's exclusive products and promote the museum's collections while ensuring an enjoyable and seamless transaction for each guest. Whether in person, via ...

International Spy Museum

SPY HIRING EXPO

Washington, DC · On-site

We are opening our Museum to job seekers; letting them mingle with staff, meet with company leaders ... Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, Team Lead, Sales Associate Human Resources: HR Assistant ...

KID Museum

Executive Assistant

Bethesda, MD · On-site

KID Museum is the nation's leading educational makerspace for youth. Every day, we put creative ... We're growing, and we need a sharp, organized, and mission-driven Executive Assistant to support ...

KID Museum

Executive Assistant

Bethesda, MD · On-site

KID Museum is the nation's leading educational makerspace for youth. Every day, we put creative ... We're growing, and we need a sharp, organized, and mission-driven Executive Assistant to support ...

KID Museum

Executive Assistant

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$58K - $64K/yr

KID Museum is the nation's leading educational makerspace for youth. Every day, we put creative ... We're growing, and we need a sharp, organized, and mission-driven Executive Assistant to support ...

KID Museum

Executive Assistant

Bethesda, MD · On-site

KID Museum is the nation's leading educational makerspace for youth. Every day, we put creative ... We're growing, and we need a sharp, organized, and mission-driven Executive Assistant to support ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsMuseum JobsMuseum Assistant JobsMuseum Assistant Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Museum Assistant information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$12

$21

$52

How much do museum assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum assistant in Silver Spring, MD is $21.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a museum assistant?

Museum Assistants are support staff who help with the daily operations of a museum. Their responsibilities typically include welcoming visitors, providing information about exhibits, assisting with ticket sales, and ensuring the security and preservation of artifacts. They may also help set up displays and support educational programs or special events. Museum Assistants play a key role in creating a positive and informative experience for visitors.

What are some common challenges museum assistants face during busy exhibition periods?

During peak exhibition times, Museum Assistants often experience higher visitor volumes, making crowd management and maintaining exhibit security more challenging. Balancing the need to provide excellent customer service while ensuring artifacts are protected can require quick problem-solving and strong communication skills. Additionally, assistants may need to adapt rapidly to changes in scheduling or exhibit layouts, working closely with curators, educators, and security staff to ensure smooth operations. These periods offer valuable experience in teamwork and multitasking, which can be beneficial for career growth within museum operations.

What does a museum assistant do?

A museum assistant is one of the entry-level positions you can obtain in a museum. This position is valuable for those wanting to work their way up, career-wise, through a museum. Your duties are to perform various administrative tasks for the museum. You may monitor exhibits and provide security services when necessary. Additionally, you may help staff set up displays and events. Museum assistants also answer questions for museum visitors and conduct tours of the museum. Essentially, your responsibilities are to perform whatever task is necessary for the operation of the museum.

What qualifications do you need to work as a museum assistant?

Museum assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions prefer or require post-secondary education in museum studies, history, or related fields. Good communication skills, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of museum operations or customer service are also important. Relevant experience or certifications in areas like first aid or security can be advantageous.

What is the difference between Museum Assistant vs Museum Curator?

AspectMuseum AssistantMuseum Curator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer associate's or bachelor's degree in history, art, or related fieldsBachelor's degree often required; master's or higher in museum studies, history, or related fields preferred
Work EnvironmentAssist in daily operations, visitor services, and exhibit setup in museums or galleriesOversees collections, develops exhibits, and manages museum programs, often in larger institutions
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in museums, galleries, and cultural institutions for entry-level support rolesFound in museums, cultural institutions, and academic settings with more specialized responsibilities

The main difference between a Museum Assistant and a Museum Curator lies in their responsibilities and qualifications. Museum Assistants typically support daily operations and visitor engagement, requiring minimal formal education. In contrast, Museum Curators handle collections, exhibit development, and require advanced degrees. Both roles are essential in museum settings but differ significantly in scope and expertise.

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

To thrive as a Museum Assistant, you need knowledge of art, history, or cultural studies, usually backed by a relevant degree or experience in museum work. Familiarity with collection management software, point-of-sale systems, and audio-visual equipment is often required. Excellent communication, customer service, and organizational skills help you engage visitors and support museum operations. These skills are crucial for ensuring a positive visitor experience and the smooth running of daily museum activities.

Is it difficult to get a job as a museum assistant?

Securing a museum assistant position can vary depending on the location and the level of experience required. Candidates typically need good communication skills, attention to detail, and sometimes prior experience or relevant education in museum studies or related fields. Competition may be moderate, and some roles require part-time or seasonal availability.
More about Museum Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Museum jobs in Silver Spring, MD? The most popular types of Museum jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What are popular job titles related to Museum Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Museum Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Museum Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Museum Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Museum Assistant jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Museum Assistant job openings:
Museum Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Assistant job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,473 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Sales Assoc.

HILLWOOD MUSEUM

Washington, DC • On-site

$20.14/hr

Part-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Museum Shop Sales Associate

Reports to: Head of Merchandise and Shop Experience
Employment Status: Part-Time

Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens welcomes over 100,000 visitors a year to enjoy our art collection, gardens, and the incredible legacy of our founder, Marjorie Merriweather Post. Many visitors take a piece of Hillwood home with them from our curated Museum Shop, and we are seeking a Museum Shop Sales Associate to help create an exceptional shopping experience for our guests.

About the Role:
As Museum Shop Sales Associate, you will provide outstanding customer service, offering visitors a unique shopping experience. You will assist with the presentation of Hillwood’s exclusive products and promote the museum's collections while ensuring an enjoyable and seamless transaction for each guest. Whether in person, via phone, or online, you will create personal connections that foster return visits and enhance the overall guest experience.

Your role will include:

  • Welcoming visitors, answering product questions, and sharing the stories behind Hillwood's collections and merchandise.
  • Processing sales transactions, returns, and payments with accuracy and professionalism.
  • Maintaining attractive product displays and ensuring the shop remains clean, organized, and well-stocked.
  • Supporting daily shop operations, including opening and closing procedures, pricing merchandise, and inventory-related tasks.
  • Building product knowledge to help guests find meaningful souvenirs and memorable keepsakes from their visit.
  • Working collaboratively with fellow team members to deliver an exceptional visitor experience every day.

About Us:
Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens is committed to fostering a positive and inclusive work environment where all voices are heard. We inspire both staff and visitors through the legacy of our founder, Marjorie Merriweather Post, and her dedication to art, culture, and beauty. As a private cultural institution, Hillwood offers stable, year-round employment independent of government funding cycles, providing exceptional visitor experiences regardless of external circumstances.

We Offer:

  • Mental wellness support.
  • Free admission to the museum and festival days.
  • Casual Monday.
  • Up to 24 hours a week, with a mix of weekdays, Saturdays and Sundays
  • A dynamic and inclusive workplace culture
  • Discounts on museum shop merchandise and cafe items
  • Free on-site parking

Hillwood is seeking applicants from all backgrounds and educational levels to ensure we get the best, most creative talent on our team. We are an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage people who identify as Black, Indigenous, people of color and people with marginalized identities to apply for open positions. We strive to make the hiring process as accessible as possible. Please do not hesitate to share what will make the process best for you. We cannot guarantee all accommodation; our team will make accommodations where possible with sufficient notice.