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Natural Science Museum Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Natural Science Museum information

See Indiana salary details

$30K

$42.1K

$53.3K

How much do natural science museum jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for natural science museum in Indiana is $42,054.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,600.00 and $46,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 job categories do people searching Natural Science Museum jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Natural Science Museum jobs in Indiana are:

Infographic showing various Natural Science Museum job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,054 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Shift Lead Security Specialist (3rd Shift)

State of Indiana

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

$25K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


State Of Indiana rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 189 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 50 rated states


Job description

 Work for Indiana

Begin a fulfilling career with the State of Indiana by joining one of the largest employers in the state, offering a range of opportunities across 60+ agencies. At the state, you'll find competitive compensation, a robust benefits package and a commitment to work-life balance. Most importantly, you'll have the chance to make a real and measurable impact on the lives of Hoosiers across Indiana.

About the Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites:
The Indiana State Museum and Historic Sites (ISMHS) is a museum system with 12 locations across the state, including the Indiana State Museum in downtown Indianapolis and 11 historic sites across the state.  The ISMHS is a forward-thinking, unparalleled resource for learning about and appreciating Indiana and its role in the world. We discover, collect, preserve, interpret, and present artifacts and exhibits that showcase the stories of Indiana's natural and cultural history, art, and science. 

Role Overview: 

The Security Specialist Shift Lead (3rd Shift) provides leadership and oversight of overnight security operations to ensure the safety of museum visitors, staff, collections, exhibits, and state property. Serving as the primary security authority during overnight hours, this role coordinates daily operations, monitors building security systems, responds to emergencies, and ensures all departmental policies and procedures are followed. The Shift Lead supervises and supports Security Specialists, conducts routine interior and exterior patrols, monitors surveillance and life-safety systems, responds to alarms and incidents, prepares detailed reports, secures museum facilities, and assists after‑hours contractors and vendors. Additionally, this position leads overnight emergency response efforts, serves as the main point of contact for operational issues, and contributes to training, coaching, mentoring, and maintaining overall readiness. Success in the role requires strong leadership and decision‑making, excellent communication and report‑writing skills, and keen situational awareness paired with effective problem‑solving abilities.

This is a full-time, fixed third-shift position with the following schedule:

Wednesday through Sunday 12:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.This is a set schedule and is not subject to routine rotation.

Salary:

The salary for this position traditionally starts at $25,766.00 but may be commensurate with education and work experience. Use our Compensation Calculator to view the total compensation package.

What You'll Need for Success:
  • Able to perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports:
This role may be utilized in a supervisory capacity based on agency needs.

Benefits of Employment with the State of Indiana:

The State of Indiana offers a comprehensive benefit package for full-time employees which includes: 

  • Three (3) medical plan options (including RX coverage) as well as vision and dental plans
  • Wellness Rewards Program: Complete wellness activities to earn gift card rewards
  • Health savings account, which includes bi-weekly state contribution
  • Deferred compensation 457(b) account (similar to 401(k) plan) with employer match
  • Two (2) fully-funded pension plan options
  • A robust, comprehensive program of leave policies covering a variety of employee needs, including but not limited to:
    • 150 hours of paid New Parent Leave and up to eight weeks of paid Childbirth Recovery Leave for eligible mothers
    • Up to 15 hours of paid community service leave
  • Combined 180 hours of paid vacation, personal, and sick leave time off
  • 12 paid holidays, 14 on election years
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Group life insurance
  • Referral Bonus program
  • Employee assistance program that allows for covered behavioral health visits
  • Qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program
  • Free Parking for most positions
  • Free LinkedIn Learning access

Equal Employment Opportunity:

The State of Indiana is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to recruiting, selecting, developing, and promoting employees based on individual ability and job performance. Reasonable accommodations may be available to enable individuals with disabilities to complete the application and interview process as well as perform the essential functions of a role. If you require reasonable accommodations to complete this application, you can request assistance by contacting the Indiana State Personnel Department at jobs@spd.IN.gov.


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