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$154

How much do museum interpretation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum interpretation in the United States is $85.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67.07 and $93.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a museum interpretation specialist do?

A museum interpretation specialist develops and presents educational programs, exhibits, and tours to help visitors understand and engage with the museum's collections. They often research topics, create interpretive materials, and work with diverse audiences, using communication skills and knowledge of history, art, or science. The role may require knowledge of exhibit design, storytelling, and sometimes certifications in education or museum studies.

What is a Museum Interpretation job?

A Museum Interpretation job involves creating engaging ways to help visitors understand and connect with exhibits. This can include developing educational programs, designing interactive displays, or leading tours. Interpreters translate complex information into accessible and meaningful experiences for diverse audiences. Their work enhances visitor engagement and deepens appreciation for cultural, historical, or scientific content.

How to be a museum interpreter?

To become a museum interpreter, you typically need a background in history, art, or science, along with strong communication and presentation skills. Relevant experience can include volunteering, internships, or education in a related field. Knowledge of museum exhibits and the ability to engage diverse audiences are essential for this role.

What are typical daily responsibilities for someone working in Museum Interpretation?

Museum Interpretation professionals typically spend their days developing and delivering educational programs, giving guided tours, creating interpretive materials (such as displays and digital content), and interacting with visitors to answer questions or provide context for exhibits. They often collaborate with curators, educators, and marketing teams to design engaging visitor experiences and ensure that interpretive materials are accurate and accessible. Flexibility is key, as tasks can vary based on special exhibitions, group visits, or outreach events. This dynamic role requires a balance of research, creativity, and public engagement to make museum collections meaningful to all audiences.

How do you get your foot in the door at a museum?

To start a career in museum interpretation, gaining relevant experience through internships, volunteering, or entry-level positions is essential. Developing strong communication skills, knowledge of the museum's collections, and familiarity with interpretive techniques can improve your chances of securing a role. Networking with professionals and obtaining related certifications can also help you get your foot in the door.

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

Success in Museum Interpretation requires a background in history, art, or related fields, excellent research skills, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly to diverse audiences. Experience with digital interpretation tools, audio guides, and content management systems is beneficial, and certifications in museum studies can be advantageous. Outstanding interpersonal skills, creativity, and adaptability enhance visitor engagement and make interpretation more interactive and memorable. These skills ensure that museum visitors have an enriching and educational experience tailored to different learning needs and interests.

Is it hard to get hired at a museum?

Getting hired as a museum interpreter can be competitive, often requiring relevant education such as a degree in history, art, or education, along with experience in public speaking or education. Strong communication skills, knowledge of exhibits, and sometimes certification or training in visitor engagement can improve chances of employment.
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Museum Interpretation jobs near you

Museum Tour Guide / Interpreter (Part-Time)

Jekyll Island Authority

Jekyll Island, GA • On-site

$15.13 - $17.13/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 20 days 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 amp; 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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