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Museum Operations Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Madame Tussauds

$18.72/hr

As a Guest Experience Host (Museum Operations) , you'll be at the center of the action-creating unforgettable moments for every guest who walks through our doors. From welcoming visitors to helping ...

Hiller

Vice President, Development

San Carlos, CA · On-site

... museum operations. Responsibilities: * Collaborates with and guides the Executive Team including the President & CEO and Board members and committees in developing institutional fundraising ...

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How much do museum operations jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for museum operations in California is $23.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $27.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

In the US, high-paying roles related to museum operations are rare, with senior executive positions such as museum directors or chief curators sometimes reaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially in large or prestigious institutions. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and strong leadership skills, often involving strategic planning, fundraising, and management responsibilities.

What does an operations manager do at a museum?

An operations manager at a museum oversees daily activities, including staff management, security, maintenance, and visitor services. They ensure the smooth functioning of museum operations, often coordinating with departments and managing budgets, schedules, and safety protocols.

What is the highest paying job at a museum?

The highest paying job at a museum is typically the Museum Director or Executive Director, who oversees operations, strategic planning, and staff management. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership skills, and they can earn six-figure salaries depending on the institution's size and funding.

Is it hard to get hired at a museum?

Getting hired for a museum operations role can be competitive, often requiring relevant experience, knowledge of museum procedures, and sometimes certifications. Candidates with strong organizational skills, familiarity with exhibit management, and a background in customer service or education may have an advantage in the hiring process.

What are some common challenges faced in museum operations and how can new team members prepare for them?

Professionals in museum operations often encounter challenges such as balancing visitor experience with artifact preservation, managing large events, and coordinating across diverse departments like curatorial, education, and security. New team members can prepare by developing strong communication skills, learning basic conservation principles, and becoming familiar with the museum's emergency and safety protocols. Embracing flexibility and proactively seeking feedback from colleagues can also help ease the transition and foster effective collaboration.

What are Museum Operations?

Museum Operations involve the management and coordination of all activities that keep a museum running smoothly. This includes overseeing visitor services, facility maintenance, security, educational programs, exhibition installations, and staff management. Professionals in this field ensure that both the public and the collections are safe, and that visitors have an engaging experience. They may also handle budgeting, marketing, and compliance with legal and ethical standards. Effective museum operations are essential for preserving artifacts and providing educational value to the community.

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

To thrive in Museum Operations, you need a solid understanding of museum management, collections care, and visitor services, often supported by a degree in museum studies or a related field. Familiarity with collection management systems, ticketing platforms, and facility management software is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for coordinating staff and engaging the public. These skills ensure smooth daily operations, protect valuable collections, and create positive visitor experiences crucial to a museum’s success.
What are popular job titles related to Museum Operations jobs in California? For Museum Operations jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Museum Operations jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Museum Operations jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Museum Operations jobs? Cities in California with the most Museum Operations job openings:
Museum Operations jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Operations job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,581 per year, or $23.8 per hour.
Student Museum Operations Assistant

Student Museum Operations Assistant

Chapman University

Orange, CA • On-site

$16.90/hr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Chapman University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

254th of 611 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
Student Title Classification Information
Quick Link
https://chapman.peopleadmin.com/postings/39649
Job Number
SE196724
Position Information
Department or Unit Name
Hilbert Museum
Position Headcount
1
Position Title
Student Museum Operations Assistant
Academic Year
Academic Year 2026-2027
Term or Semester
Fall
Is this Role for an Undergrad or Grad Student?
Grad and Undergrad
Anticipated Pay Range
$16.90
Pay Range Information
Chapman University is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this position. This range takes into account a variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Salary offers are determined based on the final candidate's qualifications and experience, as well as internal equity and other internal factors. The anticipated pay range is not a promise of a particular wage.
On which Campus will this work be done?
Orange
Approved Supervisor
Stephen Kugelberg
Supervisor Email
kugelberg@chapman.edu
Scheduling
Please use dates within Chapman Academic Calendar
(https://www.chapman.edu/academics/academic-calendar.aspx)
Desired Start Date
08/24/2026
Projected End Date
12/12/2026
Average number of hours per week
Up to 19 Hrs
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary
The Student Museum Operations Assistant provides general support for museum operations, with responsibilities varying day to day based on institutional needs. Core duties will typically include front desk and visitor services, assistance with education programs, and support for lectures, programs, and special events at the Hilbert Museum.
Responsibilities
  • Serve as a welcoming presence at the front desk by greeting guests, answering general questions, selling publications, and providing brief overviews of exhibitions on view
  • Assist with museum education programs as assigned, including supporting gallery activities, overseeing crafts, and aiding visiting groups
  • Support lectures and special events by assisting with guest check-in, crowd management, and maintaining a staff presence in public spaces
  • Lift and move boxes or other bulky items as needed (up to 40 lbs.)
  • Perform additional related duties as assigned to support museum operations

Required Qualifications
  • Little to no prior professional experience required
  • Basic computer proficiency, including familiarity with Word, Excel, Outlook, and Google Workspace tools

Desired Qualifications
  • Interest in art and/or art history
  • Prior experience assisting with public programs, events, or customer-facing roles
  • Comfortable interacting with visitors of diverse ages, backgrounds, and communities
  • Flexible availability, including some weekend hours

Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicants must have federal work study and reside in California
Budget Information
Is Federal work-study required?
Yes

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