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Museum Interpreter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bishop Museum

Museum Educator

Honolulu, HI

$42K - $49K/yr

The Museum educator also supports the work of the Education department by working with school and ... interpretation of the artifacts and replicas of artifacts from the Museums collection. Audiences ...

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Museum Interpreter information

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$24K

$64K

$104.5K

How much do museum interpreter jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for museum interpreter in the United States is $64,020.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 background in history, art, or education, and strong communication skills. Experience with public speaking, customer service, or educational programs can improve chances, and some positions may require certifications or training in visitor engagement. The hiring process typically involves interviews and background checks.

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

To thrive as a Museum Interpreter, you need a solid background in history, art, or related fields, often supported by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with audio-visual presentation tools, museum collection management systems, and sometimes foreign language proficiency is valuable. Exceptional communication, public speaking, and storytelling abilities help create engaging and educational experiences for diverse audiences. These skills are crucial for effectively conveying information, fostering visitor engagement, and enhancing the overall museum experience.

How much does an interpreter get paid?

Museum interpreters typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the institution. Salaries can vary with full-time or part-time positions, and some may receive benefits or stipends for additional training or certifications.

What are museum interpreters?

Museum interpreters are professionals who help visitors understand and connect with museum exhibits and collections. They use storytelling, demonstrations, tours, and educational programs to make the museum experience engaging and informative. Museum interpreters often answer visitor questions, provide historical context, and adapt information for audiences of all ages and backgrounds. Their main goal is to make art, history, or science accessible and meaningful for everyone.

How to be a museum interpreter?

To become a museum interpreter, you typically need strong communication skills, knowledge of the museum's exhibits, and often a background in history, art, or science. Relevant experience can include volunteering, internships, or education in a related field, and some positions may require certifications or training in visitor engagement and safety protocols.

What is the difference between Museum Interpreter vs Museum Educator?

AspectMuseum InterpreterMuseum Educator
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer related certificationsSimilar; often requires a degree in education, history, or related fields
Work EnvironmentMuseums, historical sites, cultural institutionsMuseums, schools, community centers
Primary FocusEngaging visitors through tours, demonstrations, and interpretive programsDeveloping educational programs, workshops, and curriculum
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in museums and cultural sitesUsed in museums with an educational focus, schools, and outreach programs

While both roles involve engaging the public and promoting understanding of exhibits, Museum Interpreters primarily focus on guiding visitors and providing interpretive information, whereas Museum Educators develop and deliver educational programs to deepen visitor learning experiences.

How does a Museum Interpreter typically collaborate with curators and educators to enhance visitor experiences?

Museum Interpreters regularly work alongside curators and education teams to develop engaging tours, workshops, and interactive programs tailored to diverse audiences. They help translate complex exhibition content into accessible stories and activities, ensuring visitors of all backgrounds can connect with the museum’s collections. This collaborative approach not only enriches the visitor experience but also allows interpreters to continuously expand their knowledge and contribute creative ideas to new exhibits or events.

What is the highest paying interpreter job?

Museum interpreters typically earn moderate salaries, but higher-paying interpreter roles include specialized positions such as legal, medical, or technical interpreters, who often require advanced language skills and certifications. These roles can offer higher compensation due to the complexity and importance of the interpretation work.
More about Museum Interpreter jobs
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Museum Interpreter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Interpreter job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Part Time, and 20% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,020 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

Museum Historical Interpreter II

Employment @ Sam Houston State University

Huntsville, TX • On-site

$2 - $3/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Come and join the Bearkat community!

Named after Texas' legendary hero, General Sam Houston, the university boasts a rich historical legacy that resonates with the spirit of Texas, which provides a balance between a peaceful, natural setting and proximity to urban amenities. With a student population of over 21,000, SHSU offers a vibrant and dynamic community. SHSU has a small town feel with large scale opportunities. Located in the Piney Woods region of East Texas and just an hour drive north of Houston, Huntsville provides area residents with a sense of community and belonging.
SHSU offers compelling options for individuals seeking a fulfilling and impactful career including a superior benefit package, competitive salaries and a flexible work environment fostering work/life balance. SHSU offers programs that support a healthy work-life balance, contributing to employee well-being and job satisfaction, as well as, professional development opportunities with our educational assistance and dependent assistance programs.

Posting Information
This position is security-sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of the Texas Education Code 51.215, which authorizes the employer to obtain criminal history record information.
Requisition 202600174S Title Museum Historical Interpreter II FLSA status Non-Exempt Hiring Salary
This position is a pay grade 2. Please see Pay Grade Table at: https://pa-hrsuite-production.s3.amazonaws.com/116/docs/550174.pdf.
Occupational Category Clerical Department Museum Division Division of University Advancement Open Date 06/10/2026 Open Until Filled Yes Educational and Experience Requirement
Associate of Arts Degree or equivalent two years college study 60 hours. Courses in history, anthropology, art history, natural history, education, or museum studies would be helpful. One year experience as a museum interpreter or in public programming or experience in related field is required. A combination of education, experience, and training that would produce the required knowledge and abilities could be considered.
Nature & Purpose of Position
Interprets early Texas history, pioneer lifestyles, folklife, and frontier arts and crafts to Museum visitors. Interpreter for several original and reconstructed historic structures. Educational programming requires life skills demonstrations as assigned. Exhibit in Rotunda and galleries of Memorial Museum building.
Primary Responsibilities
Provides both first person and third person interpretation. Conveys historical information to visitors through role playing, living history reenactments, and other techniques. Uses material culture artifacts and museum objects in a variety of public programs. Travels to schools and other venues as a demonstrator. Escorts scheduled groups of visitors through historic structures and Museum galleries. Responsible for extensive knowledge of early Texas history and general United States history. Assists with cataloging and registration of artifacts collection. Performs other related duties as assigned.
Other Specifications
Assumes responsibility for safety of groups. May collect fees and other charges as required. May operate cash register as needed in Museum gift shop. Position requires familiarity with word processing, computers, audio visual equipment, and general office equipment. Must enjoy working with people, both individually and in larger groups. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are necessary. Historic clothing or costumes are a feature of Museum interpretation and are expected to be worn as needed. Must be able to work a flexible schedule which would include evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
Full Time Part Time Full Time Position Number Quicklink https://shsu.peopleadmin.com/postings/47518
EEO Statement
EEO Statement
Sam Houston State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and Smoke/Drug-Free Workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, ancestry, marital status, citizenship, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or protected veteran status. The University takes seriously the initiative to ensure equal opportunity in the workforce and to comply with Title VII as interpreted by the U.S. Supreme Court. Sam Houston State University is an "at will" employer. Employees with a contract will have additional terms and conditions. Security-sensitive positions at SHSU require background checks in accordance with Education Code 51.215.
Annual Security and Fire Safety Report

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