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Museum Development Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

... Development/ Advancement by analysis of donors and fundraising for the Museum and Burke Museum Association Internal Controls and Compliance 30%: Advising BMA treasurer and board president on ...

New

Major Gifts Officer

Tacoma, WA

$77K - $100K/yr

Summary of Position Tacoma Art Museum (TAM) seeks a dedicated Major Gifts Officer to join our Development team to help the Museum become the most community-centered art museum in the Northwest, and ...

Major Gifts Officer

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$68K - $78K/yr

Summary of Position Tacoma Art Museum (TAM) seeks a dedicated Major Gifts Officer to join our Development team to help the Museum become the most community-centered art museum in the Northwest, and ...

Summary The Exhibit Developer supports the mission of The Museum of Flight by designing, developing ... Skilled in research, writing, and content/story development * Strong organizational skills.

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Museum Development information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$19.9K

$121.4K

$190.1K

How much do museum development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for museum development in Seattle, WA is $121,399.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,100.00 and $132,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Museum Development, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Museum Development often encounter challenges such as securing consistent funding, balancing donor relations with institutional goals, and effectively communicating the museum's mission to potential supporters. To address these, it’s important to build strong relationships with donors, stay informed about grant opportunities, and collaborate closely with curators and leadership to align fundraising strategies with the museum’s vision. Flexibility, clear communication, and ongoing professional development are key to navigating these challenges successfully.

What is the difference between Museum Development vs Museum Education Coordinator?

AspectMuseum DevelopmentMuseum Education Coordinator
Primary FocusFundraising, grant writing, and strategic growthDesigning and implementing educational programs for visitors
Required CredentialsTypically a background in nonprofit management, fundraising, or related fieldsOften a degree in education, museum studies, or related areas
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, with some travel for outreach and eventsOn-site at museums, schools, or community centers
Industry UsageCommonly found in museums focusing on growth and sustainabilityCommon in museums emphasizing visitor engagement and education

While Museum Development focuses on fundraising and strategic growth to ensure the museum's sustainability, Museum Education Coordinators concentrate on creating educational programs to engage visitors. Both roles are vital but serve different aspects of museum operations, often working together to enhance the museum's overall mission.

What is Museum Development?

Museum Development refers to the process of supporting and enhancing museums through fundraising, strategic planning, audience engagement, and resource management. Professionals in this field work to secure financial support, build partnerships, and implement programs that increase a museum's impact and sustainability. Their efforts help ensure that museums remain accessible, relevant, and able to fulfill their educational and cultural missions. Museum development staff often collaborate with curators, educators, and community leaders to create lasting value for both the institution and the public.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Museum Development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Museum Development, you need strong fundraising, grant writing, and project management skills, often supported by a degree in arts administration, museum studies, or nonprofit management. Familiarity with donor management systems (such as Raiser’s Edge), CRM platforms, and fundraising software is typically required. Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and strategic planning skills set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These skills are crucial for securing financial support, building community partnerships, and ensuring the museum’s long-term sustainability.
What are popular job titles related to Museum Development jobs in Seattle, WA? For Museum Development jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Museum Development job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,399 per year, or $58.4 per hour.
Burke Museum Finance Specialist

Burke Museum Finance Specialist

Uw

Seattle, WA • Hybrid

$92K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 hours ago


University Of Washington rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

139th of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Description

The Burke Museum has an outstanding opportunity for a Burke Museum Finance Specialist to join their team.

About this Opportunity

Under the direction of the Burke Museum Administrator, the Burke Museum Finance Specialist is responsible for administering an annual revenue budget of approximately $2.5M that provides funding from our Burke Museum Association board (BMA) for the Burke Museum's mission within the University of Washington. The incumbent also manages external grant and other funding received by the BMA, and is responsible for understanding the nuances of the hybrid Burke Museum / BMA financial structure and the means by which it benefits the Burke Museum.

The Burke Museum cares for and shares natural and cultural collections so all people can learn, be inspired, generate knowledge, feel joy, and heal. The Burke was founded in 1885 by the Young Naturalists, a group of curious teenagers inspired by seeing Seattle transform before their eyes. For 135 years, the museum has built upon this legacy, collecting objects that help us understand how the Northwest has grown and changed.

Key Responsibilities

Financial and Tax Reporting for Burke Museum Association 30%:

Develop and implement new consolidated financial statements for the Burke Museum and Association and produce monthly.

Prepare and present financial reports to the Finance Committee and Board of Directors

Work with the BMA treasurer to prepare monthly Finance Committee agenda and content

Provide support and attend monthly board meeting

Prepare grant and other special reports as needed

Assist Development/ Advancement by analysis of donors and fundraising for the Museum and Burke Museum Association

Internal Controls and Compliance 30%:

Advising BMA treasurer and board president on financial policy and strategy.

Manage relationship and work with CPA team on annual audit/ review of the BMA; provide documentation, respond to auditor questions; review final audit reports and post adjusting entries

Provide instruction and feedback to staff regarding financial policies and procedures

Provide primary oversite of internal controls for Burke Museum Association

Ensure compliance with State and Federal regulations on financial reports, tax filings, audits, and other financial reports

Ensure the accuracy and completeness of financial records, including the general ledger, accounts payable and accounts receivable.

Reconcile BMA general ledger accounts

Calculate net asset roll forward monthly

Manage accounts payable processes

Manage accounts receivable processes including timing of grant revenue recognition, allowance for doubtful accounts and discount on long term pledges.

Manage, forecast and record in-kind revenue/expense

Budgeting, Budget Management, and Forecasting 20%:

In coordination with the BMA finance committee and Burke Museum leadership, develop the annual budget for the BMA.

Monitor and report budget to actual

Develop and maintain forecasting tools that support long-term financial planning and decision-making

Assist development team and staff in the creation of grant budgets

General Accounting 20%:

Manage and maintain bookkeeping records using QuickBooks

Create nancial statements and reports for board and management

Manage museum gift store accounting functions: deposit reconciliation, sales postings, sales tax reporting, cost of goods sold calculation; work with store manager to reconcile inventory on a monthly.

Provide Shop nancial analysis and recommendations as needed

Required Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Business or Accounting,

  • Four years experience in Accounting, budgeting, forecasting, and reporting of financial data

  • Applicants who do not meet these qualifications WILL NOT be forwarded to the Hiring Manager.

Desired Qualifications:

  • Entity reporting responsibility and experience in non-profit accounting with knowledge of GAAP for non-profit entities.

  • Experience in post-award fiscal compliance.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$84,000.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum:

$92,064.00 annual

Other Compensation:

-

Benefits:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift:

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit:

Not Applicable

About the UW

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives - on our campuses, in our state and around the world.

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty.

Our Commitment

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or dso@uw.edu.

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.


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