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Museum Internship Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

This internship is ideal for students or emerging professionals interested in museum education, museum studies, nonprofit arts management, K-12 education, public programs, community engagement, or ...

Historian A

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$51K - $76K/yr

... interns, and volunteers on research assignments, and review, research, and consult with interpretive and museum staff in the development and assessment of programming May provide oversight related to ...

Journeyman Mason

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$24.66 - $36.97/hr

Today, Colonial Williamsburg is the largest living history museum in the U.S. The Historic Area is ... trainees or interns assigned and assumes a mentor role when requested. * This position requires ...

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Museum Internship information

See Virginia salary details

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How much do museum internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum internship in Virginia is $17.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a museum internship?

A museum internship is a short-term work experience opportunity offered by museums to students, recent graduates, or individuals interested in pursuing a career in the museum field. Interns gain hands-on experience in areas such as curation, education, collections management, research, and museum administration. These internships can be paid or unpaid and typically last from a few weeks to several months. They are valuable for building professional networks, enhancing résumés, and gaining practical skills relevant to museum careers.

What types of projects or responsibilities can I expect during a museum internship?

During a museum internship, you may be involved in a variety of hands-on projects such as assisting with exhibition installation, cataloging collections, supporting educational programs, or helping with marketing and outreach efforts. Interns often work closely with curators, educators, and collections managers, gaining exposure to the daily operations of the museum. You'll have opportunities to develop professional skills, network with museum professionals, and contribute to meaningful projects that enhance the visitor experience.

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

To thrive as a Museum Intern, you typically need a background in art history, museum studies, or related fields, along with strong research and organizational skills. Familiarity with collection management systems, database software, and digital archiving tools is often expected. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies help interns effectively support museum operations, contribute to exhibitions and education, and ensure the preservation and accessibility of collections.

Is a museum internship worth it?

A museum internship provides hands-on experience in curation, education, or conservation, which can enhance a resume and improve job prospects in the museum field. It often offers networking opportunities and skill development but may be unpaid or low-paid, so its value depends on individual career goals and financial situation.

What is the difference between Museum Internship vs Museum Curator?

AspectMuseum InternshipMuseum Curator
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a relevant degree (e.g., history, art, archaeology)Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) often required
Work EnvironmentHands-on experience in museums, assisting staff, and learning operationsOversees collections, research, exhibitions, and staff management
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level or training positions within museums and cultural institutionsSenior professional role within museums, cultural institutions, or academia

While a Museum Internship provides practical experience and training in museum operations, a Museum Curator is a professional responsible for managing collections, research, and exhibitions. Internships are ideal for gaining initial exposure, whereas curators hold advanced qualifications and oversee museum programs.

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

The most popular types of Museum jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Museum Internship jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Museum Internship job openings:

Infographic showing various Museum Internship job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 59% Full Time, and 35% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,686 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Museum Education Internship

OPERATION SMILE INC

Virginia Beach, VA

Internship

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Role:Museum Education Internship

Location: Virginia Beach, VA

Description
Join our team at the Anthony L. and Hideko S. Burgess Interactive Learning Center (ILC), a brand-new exhibit located at Operation Smile's Global Headquarters. The ILC serves as a "Window to the World," allowing visitors to journey alongside our friends who are affected by cleft conditions as they seek the safe surgery and comprehensive care they need and deserve. This immersive experience seeks to educate students, the community, and visitors to Virginia Beach about culture, medicine, geography, and leadership. As an Education Intern, you will be involved in the development and presentation of our educational programs to audiences of varying ages and backgrounds at the ILC. Additionally, you will support day to day operations such as research, program materials management, event support, and leading virtual and in-person experiences. This is an unpaid internship that runs for a minimum of three months.

Essential Functions:

  • Research prospective educators, schools, and events to bring more opportunities to the ILC
  • Leading field trip programming and community tours, both in-house and via distance learning
  • Assist with lesson planning for before and after field trips
  • Use learning management platform to post ILC e-learning modules
  • Provide event support, as needed.

Internship Takeaways:

  • Non-profit/International NGO experience
  • Cross-communication skills
  • Experience to engage with students
  • Teaching experience
  • Experience creating and implementing lesson plans
  • Opportunity to connect with educators

Requirements

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Excel
  • High School graduate, some college preferred
  • Strong communication skills, including public speaking
  • Ability to work independently
  • Ability to solve problems and research effective solutions
  • 1-2 years of customer service or administrative experience preferred

Time Commitment:

  • Ability to commit to a minimum of 15-20 hours per week (more if desired) for three months
  • Availability Monday - Friday; typically between the hours of 9:00am to 5:00pm, with occasional availability after hours, as needed for tours/events
  • Ability to commute to HQ office in Virginia Beach, VA