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Smithsonian Associates Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CASHIER (FULL TIME)

Washington, DC · On-site

$21.55/hr

Smithsonian Castle - 1000 Jefferson Drive Southwest, Washington, DC 20560. Note: online ... Become part of Restaurant Associates, the industry's leading provider of dining and event catering ...

BARISTA (FULL TIME)

Washington, DC · On-site

$21.80/hr

Smithsonian National Museum of American History - 14th Street & Constitution Avenue Southwest ... Become part of Restaurant Associates, the industry's leading provider of dining and event catering ...

Restaurant Associates are high-energy team players who serve our customers and produce the finest ... Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.

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Smithsonian Associates information

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$66

How much do smithsonian associates jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for smithsonian associates in the United States is $29.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $35.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common collaborative projects or events that Smithsonian Associates team members participate in, and how do these collaborations enhance the role?

Smithsonian Associates staff often work closely with curators, educators, event planners, and marketing professionals to design and produce public programs, lectures, and workshops. These collaborations allow team members to contribute their expertise while gaining insight into other areas, fostering a dynamic and creative work environment. Participating in multidisciplinary projects not only broadens professional networks but also helps individuals develop new skills and discover unique approaches to program development. This collaborative culture is a hallmark of Smithsonian Associates and provides excellent opportunities for personal and career growth.

What are Smithsonian Associates?

Smithsonian Associates is the cultural, educational, and membership division of the Smithsonian Institution, offering a wide range of public programs, lectures, workshops, performances, and courses for adults and children. Their events are designed to inspire lifelong learning and connect the public with Smithsonian research, collections, and experts. Participants can attend events both in-person and online, covering topics like history, science, art, and culture. Smithsonian Associates also manages the Smithsonian Associates Membership, which provides members with benefits such as ticket discounts and exclusive access to select programs.

What is the difference between Smithsonian Associates vs Museum Educator?

AspectSmithsonian AssociatesMuseum Educator
CredentialsBachelor's degree in education, history, or related field; experience in educational programmingBachelor's degree in education, museum studies, or related field; experience in educational or interpretive roles
Work EnvironmentEducational programs, lectures, workshops at Smithsonian institutionsMuseum settings, guiding tours, developing educational content
Employer & IndustrySmithsonian Institution, cultural and educational sectorMuseums, cultural institutions, educational organizations

Smithsonian Associates focuses on creating educational programs and events for the Smithsonian Institution's audiences, often involving lectures, workshops, and cultural activities. In contrast, a Museum Educator typically works directly within museums to develop and deliver educational content, guide visitors, and enhance museum experiences. While both roles require educational credentials and involve public engagement, Smithsonian Associates emphasizes program development for a broad audience, whereas Museum Educators focus on interpretive education within museum exhibits.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Smithsonian Associates Program Coordinator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Smithsonian Associates Program Coordinator, you need strong organizational skills, experience in educational programming or event planning, and a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with project management software, ticketing systems, and database management is typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and customer service skills help build effective relationships with staff, speakers, and the public. These abilities are crucial for delivering high-quality programs and ensuring smooth operations in a dynamic, public-facing environment.
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Infographic showing various Smithsonian Associates job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,288 per year, or $29.5 per hour.
Visitor Services Lead

$16.25 - $18.75/hr

Other

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Description

Agency/Division/Status/Location  

NMAAHC - National Museum of African American History and Culture

Full Time Contract Position; Washington, D.C.  


Reports to 

Project Manager  

Summary/Objective  
Responsible for providing daily oversight and scheduling of team members to support greeting, wayfinding, queuing, crowd management, timed entry, ticketing and visitor feedback and documentation per the SOW. Providing special tours, training of team members, and handling requests from the Senior Visitor Lead. 


Essential Functions
Must successfully complete VSA and Lead training within the probationary period.
Shall participate in required training to learn about the museum's new exhibitions and object rotations; remain abreast of best practices in customer service, exceptional visitor experience, conflict resolution, de-escalation protocols, safety, and emergency procedures.
Must understand the Smithsonian's requirements and protocols for ensuring accessibility and accommodations.
Be available to cover any VSA post, as needed.  
Complete opening and closing procedures.  
Follow all lead roles and responsibilities for each post location, as outlined in the lead guide.  
Plan and implement delayed opening Monday activities, when applicable.
Ensure all staff are taking scheduled lunches and breaks and monitor accurate time keeping. Leads take lunches before or after VSA's to ensure floor coverage.  
Respond to phone calls, radio calls, group-me messages, and emails in a professional and timely manner.  
Assist with training new team members on the contract. Ensuring to perform check-ins with VSAs to make sure they don't have questions or need assistance.
Engage and motivate team members. Be visible and available on the floor to your team.  
Shall assist in the care and maintenance of equipment and supplies for the visitor services program.  
Assist with providing team with necessary safety and administrative information and direction.
Effective and professional communication and collaboration with senior leadership and other leads.  
Take part in daily briefs and debriefs with staff members and leads. Attend meetings as requested.  
Assist in facilitating tours, greetings and events as requested by leadership for the benefit
of the visitor experience.  
Complete and review daily reports and provide necessary information, as requested.  
Maintain compliance with all applicable safety practices, environmental regulations, and establishment policies and procedures.  
Maintain a positive and respectful attitude.  
Performs other related duties as assigned. 


Uniform Requirements
All Employees are required to provide their own business casual/executive uniform that consist of the details listed in the handbook. 


Schedule
Leads must arrive on-site no later than 8:30am with departure at 5:00pm.
When leads are assigned to close welcome desk/museum, leads may arrive no later than 9:00am with a departure at 5:30pm.   
Work schedule as assigned. Hours are designated by the Federal Agency and will be given to each employee, and modifications are not allowed unless approved by Ruchman

Senior Lead or Program Manager and Agency
Schedule is subject to change and is assigned according to the government's needs on the contract. This position requires having some schedule flexibility as we want to ensure floor coverage with a contractor lead each day.  
Work Environment
1400 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC
Onsite. Public Indoor Environment in Governmental Building Physical Demands
Prolonged periods standing and walking.
Physically able to speak for long periods of time while walking without becoming winded.
Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.
Position is Public Facing and Remote work is not allowed. 


Travel Required
No travel required.

Requirements

Required Education & Experience  

Bachelor's degree or four (4) years of education above high school in any field of study from an accredited college or university, preferred. Work experience can be substituted for degree.   Minimum of three years of public-facing, customer service experience at a museum, cultural institution, or attraction Knowledge and experience in understanding the visitor journey in a large museum,   

cultural institution, or attraction.   Public speaking experience and general understanding of African American history   

preferred but not required.   Leadership experience preferred.    Individuals must be articulate, dependable, have strong interpersonal skills and work well under pressure. Position requires computer skills to research, communicate amongst leadership, and provide information.  

Work Authorization/Security Clearance Requirements

Must receive a Clear Background Investigation conducted by Smithsonian.   


Affirmative Action/EEO Statement   

Ruchman & Associates, LLC, is an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.  


Ruchman & Associates, Inc. participates in the E-Verify program to confirm the employment eligibility of all persons hired.  This means that we will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.  Ruchman & Associates, Inc. will not use E-Verify to pre-screen job applicants.  


Ruchman & Associates, Inc. is an at will employer.  This means employment is for an indefinite period of time and is subject to termination by you or Ruchman & Associates, Inc., with or without notice, and at any time.  Nothing in this job description or any policy of Ruchman & Associates, Inc. shall be interpreted to be in conflict with or to eliminate or modify in any way, the at will employment status of Ruchman & Associates, Inc. employees.