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Seasonal Smithsonian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Travel Physical Therapist

Burke, VA · On-site

$1.9K - $2.2K/wk

Burke Lake Park features a 4.7-mile trail, golf course, and seasonal train, while Lake Accotink ... For weekend exploration, Shenandoah National Park is about 90 miles west, and the Smithsonian ...

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Seasonal Smithsonian information

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$5

$18

$39

How much do seasonal smithsonian jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for seasonal smithsonian in the United States is $18.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a seasonal Smithsonian?

Seasonal Smithsonian jobs are temporary positions offered by the Smithsonian Institution, typically during peak tourism periods or special events. These roles can include positions in visitor services, museum education, retail, and event staffing across the Smithsonian’s museums and facilities. Seasonal employees help manage increased visitor traffic and support special programs, often working part-time or full-time for a limited duration. These jobs are ideal for students, recent graduates, or anyone seeking short-term employment with an interest in museums or cultural institutions.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a seasonal Smithsonian employee?

To thrive as a Seasonal Smithsonian employee, you generally need customer service skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale systems, visitor management software, or specific exhibit technologies is often required. Strong interpersonal communication, adaptability, and teamwork help employees engage with diverse visitors and collaborate with staff. These skills ensure a positive visitor experience and smooth operations during peak museum seasons.

What is the typical work environment like for a seasonal Smithsonian employee?

Seasonal Smithsonian employees often work in dynamic, visitor-focused environments such as museums, gardens, or research centers, where teamwork is essential. New staff are typically supported by experienced team leads or supervisors who provide training and mentorship, helping them adapt to fast-paced periods like peak tourist seasons. Collaboration is common, with seasonal employees working alongside permanent staff to ensure smooth operations and excellent visitor experiences. Flexibility and strong communication skills are highly valued, as daily tasks can vary depending on visitor needs and special events.

What is the difference between Seasonal Smithsonian vs Seasonal Museum Educator?

AspectSeasonal SmithsonianSeasonal Museum Educator
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in education, history, or related fieldRequires education background, often with teaching certification or experience
Work EnvironmentLocated at Smithsonian museums, involves public engagement and educational programsWorks in museums or cultural institutions, focusing on visitor education and outreach
Employer & IndustryPart of Smithsonian Institution, federal government-fundedEmployed by museums, cultural or educational organizations
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for roles involving public education at SmithsonianCompared for similar educational outreach roles in museums

Both roles involve educational activities in museum settings, with the Seasonal Smithsonian focusing on programs within Smithsonian museums, and the Seasonal Museum Educator working across various cultural institutions. They share similar credentials and work environments, but differ mainly in employer and specific program focus.

More about Seasonal Smithsonian jobs

What cities are hiring for Seasonal Smithsonian jobs?

Cities with the most Seasonal Smithsonian job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Smithsonian jobs?

The most popular types of Smithsonian jobs are:

What states have the most Seasonal Smithsonian jobs?

States with the most job openings for Seasonal Smithsonian jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Seasonal Smithsonian jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Seasonal Smithsonian jobs are:

Infographic showing various Seasonal Smithsonian job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,949 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Assistant Manager - Hiring Immediately

Washington, DC • On-site


Ben & Jerry's

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

287th of 443 rated food and drinks producers

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students


$23/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Assistant Manager

$23/hr

Assistant Manager – Ben & Jerry’s, Smithsonian National Zoo (Washington, DC)

Do you love ice cream, animals, and leadership? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, people-first environment and want to help create joy for guests from around the world?

We’re looking for a motivated and service-driven Assistant Manager to join our team at the Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shops located inside the Smithsonian National Zoological Park in Washington, DC. This is a seasonal, full-time leadership role supporting the General Manager in overseeing daily operations, developing talent, and delivering exceptional guest experiences in one of the most unique environments in the country.
This position is outdoors and operates from March through November, serving thousands of guests daily, ranging from school groups and families to summer camps and tourists. Strong candidates will bring energy, integrity, and a servant leadership mindset, along with the ability to manage high-volume service with care and efficiency.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and support daily operations to ensure smooth, efficient service in a high-volume, fast-paced environment
  • Coach, train, and motivate team members to deliver world-class hospitality rooted in Ben & Jerry’s values and the Primo Partners mission
  • Assist the General Manager in maintaining labor goals, inventory accuracy, cleanliness, and team scheduling
  • Model and uphold all Smithsonian Zoo safety standards, food safety practices, and operational procedures
  • Resolve guest concerns with empathy and action, creating “WOW” moments through positivity and service 
  • Track sales goals, shift performance, and provide accurate reporting to leadership
  • Support community engagement initiatives and represent the brand with professionalism and joy.

What You’ll Bring
  • Previous leadership or supervisory experience in retail, food service, or hospitality preferred
  • A passion for people development and delivering joyful customer experiences
  • Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to thrive in outdoor, physically active work conditions
  • Federal background check clearance (required by Smithsonian Zoo)
  • Availability to work weekends, holidays, and peak hours

Perks & Benefits
  • Competitive hourly wage + tips
  • Schedule flexibility and full-time hours during the season
  • Opportunities for growth into a General Manager role within Primo Partners
  • A workplace culture rooted in Servant Leadership, Hospitality, and Growth

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