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Natural Science Museum Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Museum Curator

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$75K - $102K/yr

D. in Social Science, Natural Science, or related field such as: Museum Studies, Anthropology, Biology, Geology, Paleontology, or a closely related area and experience in responsible positions in a ...

Museum Curator

Mesa, AZ

$75K - $102K/yr

The Museum Curator develops, interprets, evaluates, communicates, and curates the collections of the Arizona Museum for Natural History for the fields of natural and social sciences. Responsibilities ...

Museum Technician

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$57K - $75K/yr

The National Museum of Natural History (NMNH) is a major bureau of the Smithsonian Institution that ... Learn more about this agency Duties Help The Musuem Technician will serve in the natural science ...

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Natural Science Museum information

See salary details

$31.5K

$44.2K

$56K

How much do natural science museum jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for natural science museum in the United States is $44,195.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $48,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Natural Science Museum vs Science Educator?

AspectNatural Science MuseumScience Educator
Required CredentialsDegree in natural sciences or related fieldDegree in education, science, or related field
Work EnvironmentMuseum exhibits, research areas, public displaysClassrooms, museums, outdoor programs
Employer & IndustryMuseums, research institutionsEducational institutions, museums, science centers

Natural Science Museum staff focus on managing exhibits, conducting research, and maintaining collections, while Science Educators primarily develop and deliver educational programs to visitors and students. Both roles require a background in science or education and often work within museum settings, but their core responsibilities differ in research versus teaching.

What is a natural science museum?

Natural science museums are institutions dedicated to educating the public about the natural world, including subjects like biology, geology, paleontology, and environmental science. They typically display collections of fossils, minerals, plants, animal specimens, and interactive exhibits to help visitors learn about the history and diversity of life on Earth. These museums often offer educational programs, workshops, and special events for students and families. Their goal is to promote scientific understanding and inspire curiosity about the natural world.

What are common challenges faced by staff working at a natural science museum, and how can they be addressed?

Staff at natural science museums often encounter challenges such as balancing educational programming with exhibit maintenance, managing large groups of visitors (including school tours), and keeping scientific information up-to-date and engaging. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as staff frequently collaborate with educators, curators, and researchers to develop exhibits and public programs. Staying proactive with ongoing professional development and fostering a collaborative environment can help address these challenges and contribute to a rewarding work experience.

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

To thrive as a Natural Science Museum Curator, you need a strong background in natural sciences, museum studies, and typically a relevant advanced degree. Familiarity with collection management systems, conservation techniques, and exhibit design software is highly valuable. Excellent organizational, communication, and public engagement skills help curators educate visitors and collaborate with researchers and staff. These skills are crucial for preserving collections, designing compelling exhibits, and fostering community interest in science.
More about Natural Science Museum jobs
What cities are hiring for Natural Science Museum jobs? Cities with the most Natural Science Museum job openings:
What states have the most Natural Science Museum jobs? States with the most job openings for Natural Science Museum jobs include:
Infographic showing various Natural Science Museum job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,195 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Sales Associate, Museum Store

Houston Museum of Natural Science

Houston, TX • On-site

$12/hr

Part-time

Posted 4 days ago


Houston Museum Of Natural Science rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 29 rated museums


Job description

Position:  Sales Associate, Museum Store
Employment Status:  Part Time, Hourly, Non-Exempt, $12 per hour

Job Summary:
To match the extensive variety of the exhibitions, the Houston Museum of Natural Science offers items to delight all ages and tastes. In addition to the flagship store at the entrance of the museum, Museum Store staff also operate temporary stores in conjunction with special exhibitions.

The Houston Museum of Natural Science’s Museum Store is looking for friendly and enthusiastic individuals with a passion for customer service to join our team. We are seeking a Sales Associate who can take ownership of our brand and the diverse range of interesting and educational products.
To foster this, sales staff receive ongoing, thorough training on the unique and exciting treasures the Museum Store offers.

Sales Associates generate vital revenue for the museum which is a nonprofit educational organization.

Museum staff take pride in offering exceptional customer service to our guests to build life-long and repeat customers. Individuals who excel in this role have the opportunity for internal promotions and a strong career path at the museum.  Successful candidates will be curious, engaging, team-oriented and guest-focused.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Assist guests in purchase of store merchandise, museum memberships and parking.
  • Operate point-of-sale operating system for guest purchases.
  • Facilitate transactions for cash and credit card payments.
  • Understand and communicate the difference in museum membership levels and benefits to guests.
  • Maintain knowledge of existing and new merchandise, including high-end specialty items such as fossils, gems and minerals.
  • Promote merchandise and interact with guests by greeting customers, answering questions and providing product information.
  • Maintain store displays and stock areas.
  • Create a welcoming, safe and fun environment for our guests through outstanding service and guest assistance.
  • Arrive to work on time.
  • Other duties as assigned.
  • Comply with the museum’s health and safety protocols.

Skills and Experience:
  • Cash handling experience is a plus.
  • Bilingual a plus (Spanish/English).
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills in order to speak to visitors and colleagues.
  • Able to adjust to changing the workflow from a slow to a fast-paced working environment.
  • Alert and able to respond quickly in an emergency.
  • Excellent customer service skills.
  • Proven track record of reliable punctuality and attendance.
  • Interest in science and history.
  • Knowledge of gems, minerals and fossils is a plus.
  • Relevant volunteer or work experience is preferred.
 
Qualifications:
  • At least 16 years of age.

Working Conditions and Physical Demands:
  • Available to work 2-3 days a week, including Saturday and/or Sunday.
  • Available to occasionally work evening shifts for special events.
  • Able to be in both stationary and circulating positions throughout the shift for long periods of time.
  • Moderate physical activity required.
  • Able to lift up to 25 pounds.
  • Able to operate a desktop computer, mobile computer, scanner or other technical equipment.

Perks of Working at HMNS Include:
  • Free individual-level HMNS Membership.
  • Free access to Museum exhibits, Cockrell Butterfly Center, Burke Baker Planetarium, Giant Screen Theater and satellite facilities.
  • Discounted programming including museum summer camp.
  • Free staff parking.
  • Flexible scheduling.
  • Predominantly daytime hours (some evenings may be required).
 
Application Instructions:
Complete the online application form at www.hmns.org/appform.

Alternatively, print PDF (http://www.hmns.org/jobformprint) and submit with optional resume:
  • Email to jobs@hmns.org,
  • Mail to HMNS, c/o HR, 5555 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, Texas 77030, or
  • Drop off in person at the Museum Service desk at the museum.

Instrucciones para Solicitar Empleo: 
Complete el formulario de solicitud en línea en www.hmns.org/jobform. Para español, cambie la selección de idioma en la parte superior derecha.

Alternativamente, opciones para enviar formulario (http://www.hmns.org/jobformESPprint) de solicitud completo y currículum vitae opcional:
  • Envíe un correo electrónico a jobs@hmns.org,
  • Enviar por correo a HMNS, c/o HR, 5555 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, Texas 77030, o
  • Entregar en persona en el mostrador de Servicio del Museo en el museo.

No phone calls, please.

HMNS does not respond to inquiries regarding application status.
 
The Houston Museum of Natural Science is an EEO Employer.

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