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Museum Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Grinnell College

Museum Guard

Grinnell, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

The Museum Guard has primary responsibility for day-to-day security in the Faulconer Gallery space ... Demonstrated ability to manage conflict * Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging

New

Des Moines Art Center

Security Officer I

Des Moines, IA

$15 - $18/hr

... managers in the Security and Visitor Experience department and has frequent contact with peers and colleagues in Security and Visitor Experience, Facilities, Installations, Museum Learning and ...

Colorado Railroad Museum

Tax Manager

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$104K - $137K/yr

Manages client relationships by monitoring client needs and building value into professional services. * Participates in business development. * May assist with client billings to ensure they reflect ...

State of Iowa

Registered Nurse (RN) Part-time

Cherokee, IA · On-site

$32.69 - $47.42/hr

Cherokee is the home of the first accredited museum and planetarium in Iowa, Sandford Museum and Planetarium, established in 1951. Cherokee may be the smallest town in the world to have its own ...

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Museum Manager information

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How much do museum manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum manager in Iowa is $16.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.78 and $17.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To excel as a Museum Manager, you need a background in museum studies, art history, or a related field, along with experience in collections management and exhibition planning. Familiarity with collection management software, budgeting tools, and compliance with museum standards is typically required. Leadership, strong organizational skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing staff, engaging the public, and building partnerships. These competencies ensure the museum's operations run smoothly, its collections are preserved, and its mission is successfully promoted to diverse audiences.

What are some common challenges faced by a museum manager, and how can they be addressed?

Museum Managers often face challenges such as balancing budget constraints with the need to deliver engaging exhibitions and programs. They must also ensure collections are preserved and accessible to the public while complying with regulatory standards. Effective communication and collaboration with curators, educators, and administrative staff are essential for successful project execution. Staying adaptable and proactive in seeking grant opportunities, community partnerships, and innovative visitor experiences can help address these challenges and support the museum's mission.

What is the difference between Museum Manager vs Curator?

AspectMuseum ManagerCurator
Primary RoleOversees museum operations, staff, and budgetsDevelops exhibits, conducts research, and manages collections
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in museum studies, management, or related field; experience in administrationBachelor's or master's in art history, archaeology, or related field; specialized knowledge
Work EnvironmentAdministrative offices, museum floors, staff meetingsExhibit development areas, collections storage, research spaces
Employer & Industry UsageFound in museums, cultural institutions, historical sitesPrimarily in museums, galleries, and research institutions

While both roles are essential in museums, a Museum Manager focuses on overall operations and administration, whereas a Curator specializes in collections, research, and exhibit development. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How to get into museum management?

To become a museum manager, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in museum studies, history, art, or a related field, along with experience in museum operations or curation. Developing skills in leadership, budgeting, and public engagement, as well as gaining experience through internships or entry-level roles, can help advance into management positions. Some roles may require a master's degree or professional certification in museum management or related areas.

What does a museum manager do?

A museum manager oversees the daily operations of a museum, including staff management, budgeting, and ensuring the preservation and display of collections. They coordinate exhibits, develop educational programs, and ensure compliance with safety and conservation standards, often using management software and possessing relevant certifications. Their role involves leadership, organization, and a strong understanding of museum policies and procedures.

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

The most popular types of Museum jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Museum Manager jobs in Iowa?

For Museum Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Museum Manager jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Museum Manager jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Museum Manager jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Museum Manager job openings:

Museum Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Manager job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,274 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Museum Guard

Grinnell, IA • On-site

Grinnell College
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Grinnell Collegeexternal

$13.50 - $17.25/hr

Part-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Grinnell College rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The Museum Guard has primary responsibility for day-to-day security in the Faulconer Gallery space of the Grinnell College Museum of Art. They will have an understanding of museum security needs, including the safety of the art and of the museum visitors. A professional manner and strong customer service skills are essential. They will work with the Office of Campus Safety on protocols and procedures in coordination with Campus Safety standards. The Museum Guard will be a member of the Grinnell College Museum of Art team and will assist, as needed, with special events in and around the museum. The Museum Guard will work with student gallery guides and will interact with a diverse range of students, faculty, staff, and visitors from around the globe.
*This is a regular part-time position, 10 hours per week, with the following schedule:
Thursdays, 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Saturdays, 1:00 - 5:00 PM
Sundays, 1:00 - 5:00 PM
Key Responsibilities
Security
  • Provides daily security coverage in the Grinnell College Museum of Art, including checking the art twice a day, circulating through the space regularly, and instructing visitors as needed.
  • Understands and complies with post orders created for the position.
  • Coordinates work with other Museum Guards, providing coverage when possible for absences.
  • Maintains regular contact with the Office of Campus Safety and its team of officers.
  • Responsible for complying with the Emergency Protocols for GCMoA.
  • Understands the content and particular security issues of changing exhibitions.
  • Responsible for the security of the Museum's contents and of the visitors during emergencies.
  • Maintains training in Title IX, Bias Mitigation, basic first aid, and other protocols required at Grinnell College.
  • Participates in professional development as needed.

Customer Service
  • Treats museum staff and student staff with respect.
  • Provides a safe and comfortable space for visitors, including offering information and directions.
  • Turns AV equipment on and off daily, as needed.
  • Attends Museum staff meetings as required.

Special Events
  • Keeps abreast of events occurring in the Museum space.
  • Assists with setup and oversees others setting up events to ensure the safety of the art.
  • Works additional hours as assigned.

ABOUT GRINNELL COLLEGE
Grinnell College is a top-ranking private liberal arts institution that values diversity, equity, inclusion, intellectual freedom, and social responsibility. We seek candidates that align with these values and have the ability and desire to advance our values and belonging within our community and the communities we engage. Ideal candidates will be prepared to collaborate and contribute to the mission and values of the college across all constituencies.
  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED)
  • At least six months of work experience
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and make decisions in difficult and crisis type situations
  • Demonstrated ability to build collaborative relationships with a broad range of internal and external stakeholders
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving capabilities
  • Demonstrated ability to manage conflict
  • Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging

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