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Science Center Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Bluebird Gap Farm Buckroe Beach and Park Virginia Air & Space Science Center Fort Monroe National Monument Colleges and Schools: Hampton University, Old Dominion University, Virginia Wesleyan ...

Bluebird Gap Farm Buckroe Beach and Park Virginia Air & Space Science Center Fort Monroe National Monument Colleges and Schools: Hampton University, Old Dominion University, Virginia Wesleyan ...

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Science Center information

See Virginia salary details

$24.3K

$48K

$78.3K

How much do science center jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for science center in Virginia is $47,976.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,200.00 and $51,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Are Jobs at a Science Center?

A science center is a museum that aims to educate kids in a hands-on way. Various job responsibilities ensure the facility is running smoothly and that visitors have a full, engaging experience. You can work as a cashier, in which your duties are to sell tickets to the center and current programs and take payment for items purchased in the gift shop. Salespeople take that a step further and encourage yearly membership. Directors help develop content, decide where to place an exhibit, and coordinate events. There are also positions as security officers, educators, tour guides, exhibit builders, and more.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Science Center Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Science Center Manager, you need a background in science education or museum studies, experience in program development, and strong leadership skills, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with exhibit design software, educational technology, and facility management systems is typically important. Exceptional communication, organizational abilities, and a passion for public engagement help someone stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for delivering engaging educational experiences, maintaining operational excellence, and fostering community connections.

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

Staff at a science center often encounter the challenge of engaging diverse audiences with varying levels of scientific knowledge. They must be able to explain complex concepts in an accessible and interactive way, often adapting on the spot to different learning styles. Balancing educational goals with providing an enjoyable visitor experience can also be demanding, especially during busy periods or special events. These challenges can be addressed through regular training in communication and customer service, teamwork, and staying updated on current scientific topics to ensure accurate and engaging exhibits and presentations.

What is a Science Center?

A Science Center is an educational facility designed to promote public understanding of science and technology. These centers typically feature interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, demonstrations, and sometimes live presentations to engage visitors of all ages. Science Centers aim to inspire curiosity, support STEM education, and provide a fun, accessible environment for learning about scientific concepts. They often serve schools, families, and the general public, making science accessible and enjoyable outside of traditional classroom settings.
Infographic showing various Science Center job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,976 per year, or $23.1 per hour.
Virginia Air & Space Science Center Executive Director

Virginia Air & Space Science Center Executive Director

City of Hampton

Hampton, VA

$60K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago


City Of Hampton (Virginia) rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

416th of 639 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Function Virginia Air and Space Science Center Executive Director The Virginia Air & Space Science Center is a private employer and not considered a department within the City of Hampton. The successful candidate is considered an employee of the Air & Space Science Center and not the City of Hampton The Virginia Air & Space Science Center/NASA Langley Visitor Center seeks an accomplished, visionary, and dynamic leader to serve as its next Executive Director. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for the Center, its staff, and volunteers; lead successful fundraising initiatives; and ensure the continued growth and enhancement of its exhibits, collections, and educational programming.

Located in Hampton, Virginia, a vibrant waterfront community rich in over 400 years of history and innovation, the Virginia Air & Space Science Center stands at the birthplace of America's space program. For more than 25 years, the Center has served as a hub of educational excellence as the official visitor center for NASA Langley Research Center and Langley Air Force Base. The 110,000-square-foot, nine-story facility sits on 2.2 acres in beautiful Downtown Hampton and features interactive aviation exhibits spanning over a century of flight, more than 30 historic aircraft, a hands-on space gallery, unique space flight artifacts, and a giant screen digital 3D IMAX Theater

The Center is also home to the Apollo 12 Command Module and the Orion PA-1 Test Vehicle. The mission of the Virginia Air & Space Science Center is to educate, entertain, and inspire explorers of all ages. The organization is supported by a dedicated team of 19 full-time professional staff, approximately 160 volunteers, and a 31-member Board of Directors.

Position Overview The Executive Director will serve as the chief executive officer of the Center and will be responsible for implementing the strategic direction established by the Board of Directors. This individual must be an effective communicator and relationship builder, capable of advancing the Center's mission through innovation, collaboration, and strong community engagement. The Executive Director will demonstrate an entrepreneurial mindset, with the ability to develop and implement innovative strategies that enhance programming, expand audience reach, and drive sustainable revenue growth.

A strong track record in fundraising is essential, including the ability to identify, cultivate, and secure significant financial support through corporate partnerships, individual giving, and grant opportunities. This role requires an active and visible presence within the community, strengthening relationships with political, civic, and philanthropic stakeholders, as well as fostering partnerships with local educational institutions to expand access to STEM learning opportunities. Salary Commensurate with experience Desired Qualifications and Experience Master's degree in business, education, or a related field A minimum of seven years of progressive leadership experience at the mid- to executive level, preferably within a museum, nonprofit, or educational organization Demonstrated success in securing significant philanthropic support, including major gifts, corporate partnerships, and grant funding Proven experience leading strategic planning efforts, including visioning, development, and execution Demonstrated ability to lead, develop, and inspire high-performing staff and volunteer teams Experience engaging effectively with public sector entities, including city councils and governmental bodies Strong organizational leadership and management expertise, including financial stewardship, budgeting, facilities oversight, and organizational development Demonstrated excellence in marketing, public relations, community engagement, and both written and oral communication Proven ability to cultivate community ownership and foster meaningful stakeholder engagement Experience guiding and sustaining comprehensive, ongoing strategic planning processes Demonstrated involvement in endowment campaigns or comparable long-term fundraising initiatives Thorough understanding of nonprofit governance, including board relations and best practices Demonstrated capacity for strategic and innovative thinking, coupled with sound judgment and adaptable problem-solving skills Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic, mission-driven environment Familiarity with NASA programs and the broader aerospace or STEM ecosystem Click here for complete job description.


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