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Museum Installation Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Hampton University

Visitor Service Manager

Hampton, VA · On-site

$31K/yr

Experience working in retail, visitor services and in Museum installation and preparatory work. * Three to five years working full-time in a museum or over 20 hours a week part-time. We offer a ...

Chrysler Museum Of Art

Art Preparator I

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$21 - $24.04/hr

... Museum Standards & Protocols - Adhering to conservation-approved handling methods, safety regulations, and environmental controls. * Timely Execution of Projects - Completing installations ...

Colonial Williamsburg

Journeyman Carpenter

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$28.30 - $38.10/hr

Today, Colonial Williamsburg is the largest living history museum in the U.S. The Historic Area is ... installation and repair of shingles, flashing, stairs, handrails, flooring (wood and tile), doors ...

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Museum Installation information

What is a museum installation job?

Museum installation jobs involve preparing and setting up exhibitions within museums or galleries. Professionals in this field are responsible for safely handling artworks or artifacts, constructing display cases, mounting pieces, and ensuring that each item is presented according to curatorial and conservation guidelines. Their work also includes coordinating with curators, registrars, and other staff to design layouts, manage lighting, and install signage. Museum installers play a critical role in the successful presentation and preservation of cultural and historical objects.

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

To thrive as a Museum Installation Specialist, you need expertise in art handling, spatial planning, and a good understanding of exhibition design, often supported by experience in museums or galleries and relevant safety training. Familiarity with tools such as lifts, hand tools, and hanging systems, as well as knowledge of climate control and conservation standards, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the safe, precise, and visually impactful presentation of artworks and exhibits.

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

Museum installation professionals often encounter challenges such as working within tight deadlines, handling delicate or valuable artifacts, and adapting to last-minute changes in exhibit design. Effective communication with curators, conservators, and exhibition designers is essential to ensure that installations meet both aesthetic and preservation standards. Staying organized, being detail-oriented, and maintaining flexibility can help address these challenges and contribute to successful exhibit openings.

What is the difference between Museum Installation vs Museum Curator?

AspectMuseum InstallationMuseum Curator
Required CredentialsTechnical training, art handling certificationsDegree in Museum Studies, Art History, or related field
Work EnvironmentPhysical setup areas, galleries, exhibition spacesOffice, collection storage, galleries, research areas
Employer & Industry UsageMuseums, galleries, exhibition companiesMuseums, cultural institutions, art organizations

While Museum Installation focuses on physically setting up and installing exhibits, Museum Curator involves managing collections, researching artworks, and planning exhibitions. Both roles are essential in the museum industry but differ in responsibilities and skill sets.

What are the easiest museum installation jobs to get?

Entry-level museum installation jobs such as assistant or preparator roles are generally the easiest to obtain, often requiring minimal experience and offering on-the-job training. These positions typically involve tasks like handling exhibits, setting up displays, and maintaining artifacts, making them accessible for those new to museum work or with basic technical skills.

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

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Museum Installation jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Museum Installation job openings:

Museum Installation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Installation job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% 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 22 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.

Apply