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Museum Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Miami Childrens Museum

Museum Playologist

Miami, FL · On-site

$36K - $46K/yr

Playologists are responsible for guiding tours through the galleries, conducting educational activities for museum visitors, engaging visitors in Museum galleries, sanitizing exhibit props, and ...

Children's Museum of Atlanta

Museum Educator

Atlanta, GA

$18.35 - $19.35/hr

Engage with self-guided field trips by delivering an orientation and in programming spaces, a * Create exhibit pop-up and museum programming with guidance and approvals from Manager of Gx & Manager ...

Children's Museum of Atlanta

Museum Educator

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$18.35 - $19.35/hr

Engage with self-guided field trips by delivering an orientation and in programming spaces, a * Create exhibit pop-up and museum programming with guidance and approvals from Manager of Gx & Manager ...

DALLAS HOLOCAUST MUSEUM

MUSEUM EDUCATOR

Dallas, TX

... guides for secondary grades in the Museum's online curricular databases * Assist in the teaching of virtual, in-person, and on-campus education programs * Assist in education outreach to schools and ...

Miami Childrens Museum Inc

Museum Playologist

Miami, FL · On-site

$36K - $46K/yr

Playologists are responsible for guiding tours through the galleries, conducting educational activities for museum visitors, engaging visitors in Museum galleries, sanitizing exhibit props, and ...

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How much do museum guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum guide in the United States is $17.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a museum guide?

Museum guides are professionals who provide tours and share information about exhibits, artifacts, and the overall history of a museum with visitors. They help make the museum experience educational and engaging by interpreting displays, answering questions, and sometimes offering specialized tours for different age groups or interests. Museum guides often possess in-depth knowledge of the museum’s collections and are skilled at communicating complex topics in an accessible way.

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

To thrive as a Museum Guide, you need strong knowledge of art, history, or science (depending on the museum), excellent public speaking skills, and typically at least a high school diploma or relevant coursework. Familiarity with audio-visual equipment, tour management software, and digital ticketing systems is often required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, enthusiasm, and adaptability help guides engage diverse audiences and handle unexpected situations. These skills ensure visitors have an informative, enjoyable experience and help the museum fulfill its educational mission.

What are some common challenges museum guides face when engaging diverse visitor groups?

Museum Guides often encounter groups with varying ages, backgrounds, and levels of interest, which can make it challenging to tailor tours that are engaging for everyone. Adapting communication styles, managing group dynamics, and balancing the need to convey accurate information while fostering interactive discussions are key aspects of the role. Successful guides are flexible, observant, and skilled at reading their audience to ensure a memorable and educational experience for all visitors.

What is the difference between Museum Guide vs Tour Guide?

AspectMuseum GuideTour Guide
CredentialsMay require knowledge of art, history, or specific museum certificationsOften requires general tour guiding certifications or licenses
Work EnvironmentIndoor museum settings, exhibits, galleriesVarious locations including outdoor sites, historical landmarks, city tours
Employer & IndustryMuseums, cultural institutionsTravel agencies, tour companies, historical sites
Search & Comparison IntentPeople seeking museum-specific roles or informationPeople comparing different types of guiding roles for travel or leisure

While both roles involve guiding visitors, a Museum Guide specializes in indoor museum environments, focusing on art and history exhibits, often requiring specific knowledge or certifications. A Tour Guide typically leads groups at various sites, including outdoor landmarks, and may need general guiding licenses. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their interests and qualifications.

Are museum tour guides paid?

Museum tour guides are typically paid employees or contractors who earn wages or hourly rates for leading visitors through exhibits. Compensation varies by institution, location, and experience, and some guides may also receive tips or bonuses. Many guides need good communication skills and knowledge of the exhibits to perform their duties effectively.

How do you become a museum guide?

To become a museum guide, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and good communication skills. Relevant knowledge of the museum's exhibits, customer service experience, and sometimes a background in history or art are beneficial; some museums offer training or require certification. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to engage visitors are essential for this role.

How to get hired as a museum guide?

To get hired as a museum guide, applicants typically need strong communication skills, a good knowledge of the museum's exhibits, and customer service experience. Many positions require a high school diploma or equivalent, and some may prefer or require familiarity with specific subjects or languages. Applying through the museum's employment portal or job boards and demonstrating enthusiasm for education and history can improve chances of hiring.
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Museum Guide jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Guide job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,060 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Museum Tour Guide / Interpreter (Part-Time)

Jekyll Island Georgia

Jekyll Island, GA • On-site

$15.13 - $17.13/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 23 hours ago

Job description

Job Title: Tour Guide / Interpreter
Department/Division: Museum
Status: Part-Time, Hourly Employee
Pay Grade/Pay: $15.13 - $17.13 per hour (DOQ)
Reports to: Museum Manager
Benefits: Parking & Amenity Passes
Retirement: Georgia Defined Contribution Plan (GDCP)
Closing Date: Open until filled. *Note: This position is subject to close once a satisfactory applicant pool has been identified. To apply, applicants are encouraged to complete the entire application. Incomplete applications or applications without accompanying documents when required will not be considered.
Jekyll Island is dedicated to maintaining the delicate balance between nature and humankind through conservation, education, and preservation. Surrounded by salt marshes, expansive oceanfront, and ancient maritime forests, it is situated within the chain of the Golden Isles and just a few miles from St. Simons Island, Sea Island, and Brunswick. As a State Park, Jekyll Island is a coastal haven where nature and humans peacefully co-exist.
Job Summary:
The Tour Guide/Interpreter provides engaging and informative experiences for school groups, motorcoach visitors, and the public. Under general supervision, this position conducts guided trolley tours and interpretive programs that share Jekyll Island's history and culture. Responsibilities include operating and driving trolleys and other vehicles as part of the tour experience; safeguarding museum properties and collections; and providing courteous, accurate information to guests. The role assists with special events and venue rentals, supports research and curatorial projects, and contributes to developing new programs as assigned. Work involves accessing multiple floors of historic buildings, performing duties both indoors and outdoors, and maintaining a professional and welcoming presence throughout the historic district. Regular evening, weekend, and holiday availability is required to support operational needs.
Description:
  • Provides a variety of interpretive experiences that communicate Jekyll Island's history and culture to diverse audiences.
  • Conducts tours of the Jekyll Island National Historic Landmark District and other historic sites on Jekyll Island, delivering quality educational experiences for school groups, motorcoach groups, and the general public.
  • Operates and drives motorized vehicles as assigned, including golf carts, motorcars, and gas or electric trolleys, as an integral part of the tour experience.
  • Provides security for museum properties and collections, staffs special events and venue rentals, and ensures guest safety. This requires accessing and navigating multiple floors of historic buildings and surrounding grounds.
  • Performs daily inspections of museum equipment, vehicles, and buildings and performs light custodial duties to maintain safety and functionality.
  • Participates in regular staff development training sessions.
  • Maintains cooperative and professional relationships with colleagues, volunteers, and guests to foster a positive work environment.
  • Assists with general clerical duties in a professional manner, including answering phones, distributing messages, copying, laminating, faxing, mail distribution, and creating correspondence as directed.
  • Conducts research and assists with projects that contribute to museum programs, exhibits, or educational initiatives as assigned.
  • Participates in and contributes to maintaining lines of communication between Museum Operations and the Curatorial staff, supporting accurate interpretation of Jekyll Island's past.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications (Interpreter I):
  • Must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid driver's license.
  • High school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • Minimum of 1-2 years of relevant experience, which may include a combination of education and practical experience in customer service, public speaking, teaching, or related fields.
  • Skilled and effective communicator and presenter with a commitment to learning and education.
  • Positive, adaptable, and professional demeanor conducive to public engagement.
  • Self-motivated; able to work independently and collaboratively with a team.
  • Must have flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
  • Regular attendance and punctuality for scheduled work shifts is required.

Preferred Qualifications (Interpreter I):
  • Bachelor's degree or advanced studies in history, public history, museum studies, or a related field.

Interpreter II Qualifications:
  • Meet all minimum qualifications for Interpreter I.
  • Hold a bachelor's degree or higher in history, public history, museum studies or related field.
  • Certified as an Interpretive Guide (CIG) by the National Association for Interpretation.

Licenses / Background Checks:
  • Employment is contingent upon successfully passing a criminal background check.
  • Motor vehicle record (MVR) checks are required for positions that involve operating state or personal vehicles while on duty.
  • A valid driver's license is required for tasks that involve travel between JIA-operated locations while on duty, whether using a state-issued or personal vehicle. All drivers must comply with Georgia state laws.

Physical Requirements:
  • Exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, up to 20 pounds frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds constantly to move objects such as museum equipment, trolley components, or other materials.
  • More than 50% of the workday may be spent walking, standing, or sitting while conducting tours, operating motorized vehicles, and interacting with guests, both indoors and outdoors on uneven terrain.
  • Between 25% and 50% of the workday may involve climbing stairs, pushing, pulling, or performing repetitive wrist, hand, or finger motions.
  • Less than 25% of the workday may involve balancing, stooping, crouching, or kneeling.
  • Must be able to navigate multiple floors of historic buildings and outdoor grounds, including uneven surfaces, to conduct tours and ensure guest safety.
  • Must be able to operate motorized vehicles safely, including trolleys, golf carts, and motorcars.
  • Spend more than 50% of the workday verbally communicating with guests and coworkers and listening for instructions or safety cues.
  • Regularly use vision to conduct tours, operate vehicles safely, and observe museum collections, equipment, historic structures, and visitor areas.
  • Use tactile and visual abilities to operate vehicles, monitor museum equipment, and ensure safe interaction with guests.

Working Conditions:
  • Required to perform work both indoors and outdoors.
  • Will be exposed to extreme heat, high humidity, rain, wind, and other adverse weather conditions as well as occasional extreme cold.
  • Will be exposed to hazards including moving vehicles, mechanical parts, uneven terrain, and historic building features (stairs, narrow aisles, passageways, attics, basements, or other confined spaces).
  • Will be subject to atmospheric conditions such as fumes, oils, odors, dusts, mists, or poor ventilation.
  • Work may occur during evenings, weekends, holidays, and under variable lighting conditions.
  • Noise levels range from normal to loud, occasionally requiring workers to shout for communication during tours or in high-traffic areas

This description of job responsibilities is intended to reflect the major responsibilities and duties of the job but is not intended to describe minor duties or other responsibilities as may be assigned from time to time. This position is subject to close once a satisfactory applicant pool has been identified. Applicants who complete the online application process will receive an email receipt of submission to the email address provided. If the email confirmation is not received, applicants may contact Human Resources at 912-635-4024 for confirmation; however, due to the volume of applicants received, we cannot provide information on application status after receipt. Applicants who need assistance to accommodate a disability may request accommodation by contacting Human Resources at 912-635-4024.
All qualified applicants will be considered but may not necessarily receive an interview. Incomplete applications or applications without accompanying documents when required will not be considered. Selected applicants will be contacted for the next steps in the selection process. Successful completion of background checks is required, including credit when applicable to the position. Relocation expenses are not authorized; applicants should consider this when applying.
Jekyll Island Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Authority supports equal employment opportunities for all persons without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran status, or any other status protected by law. The Jekyll Island Authority is a Drug-free Workplace.

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