1

Smithsonian Museum Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Previously supported cultural projects (e.g., GSA, NPS, Smithsonian Institute) specifically including; * Have a solid understanding of museum best practices, including handling, documentation, and ...

Museum Specialist

Greensboro, NC · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Previously supported cultural projects (e.g., GSA, NPS, Smithsonian Institute) specifically including; * Have a solid understanding of museum best practices, including handling, documentation, and ...

Museum Specialist

Greensboro, NC · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Previously supported cultural projects (e.g., GSA, NPS, Smithsonian Institute) specifically including; * Have a solid understanding of museum best practices, including handling, documentation, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Smithsonian Museum information

See salary details

$12

$15

$19

How much do smithsonian museum jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for smithsonian museum in the United States is $15.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $15.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Smithsonian Museum job?

A Smithsonian Museum job refers to a position within the Smithsonian Institution, the world's largest museum, education, and research complex. Jobs range from curators and researchers to educators, conservators, and administrative staff. Employees work to preserve history, conduct research, and engage the public through exhibitions and educational programs. Opportunities exist across various museums, research centers, and cultural institutions under the Smithsonian umbrella.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Smithsonian Museum position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Smithsonian Museum role, candidates typically need expertise in museum studies, history, art, science, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree or professional experience. Familiarity with collection management systems, digital cataloguing tools, and sometimes specialized certifications in conservation or education is advantageous. Strong interpersonal communication, public speaking, and organizational skills are vital for engaging visitors and collaborating with colleagues. These abilities are essential for ensuring successful operations, public programming, and preservation of the museum’s collections.

How much do Smithsonian workers make?

Salaries for Smithsonian Museum employees vary by role, experience, and location, but entry-level positions such as museum assistants typically start around $30,000 to $40,000 annually. More specialized roles, like curators or educators, can earn between $50,000 and $80,000 or higher, with benefits often included. Compensation may also depend on union agreements and federal pay scales for government employees.

Are Smithsonian jobs federal jobs?

Yes, Smithsonian jobs are federal jobs because the Smithsonian Institution is a federal agency funded by the U.S. government. Employees typically receive federal benefits and follow government employment policies. Positions may require security clearances and adherence to federal hiring procedures.

Is it hard to get a job at the Smithsonian museum?

Getting a job at the Smithsonian Museum can be competitive due to high applicant volume and the institution's prestige. Candidates typically need relevant experience, strong educational backgrounds, and may undergo multiple interview stages. Familiarity with museum operations and specific skills related to the role can improve chances of hiring.

What are the typical responsibilities of a professional working at the Smithsonian Museum?

Professionals at the Smithsonian Museum may handle a wide range of responsibilities, including curating exhibits, conducting research, managing collections, developing educational programs, or guiding visitors. Depending on the specific position, you might work closely with educators, conservators, or other museum staff to create engaging experiences for diverse audiences. Teamwork is essential, as many projects require collaboration across departments to maintain the highest standards for stewardship and public engagement. This dynamic environment offers opportunities to deepen your expertise while making a meaningful impact on public appreciation of history, art, and culture.

Is it hard to get hired at a museum?

Getting hired at a museum like the Smithsonian can be competitive due to high applicant volume and specific requirements such as relevant education, experience, and sometimes specialized skills or certifications. Candidates often need to demonstrate knowledge of museum operations, collections management, or public engagement, and positions may require background checks and interviews.
More about Smithsonian Museum jobs
What cities are hiring for Smithsonian Museum jobs? Cities with the most Smithsonian Museum job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Smithsonian Museum jobs? The most popular types of Smithsonian Museum jobs are:
What states have the most Smithsonian Museum jobs? States with the most job openings for Smithsonian Museum jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Smithsonian Museum jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Smithsonian Museum jobs are:
Infographic showing various Smithsonian Museum job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,896 per year, or $15.3 per hour.
Museum Specialist

$70K - $90K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Construction Museum Specialist (Exempt) Cultural Programs (NPS)

Location: Greensboro, North Carolina
Employment Type: Full-Time, Onsite
FLSA Classification: Exempt (Administrative)
Salary Range: $70,000-$90,000 annually (commensurate with experience)


Position Summary

We are seeking a motivated and experienced Museum Specialist to join our SIRIS team in support of National Park Service projects located in Greensboro, NC. This role will focus on the planning, coordination, and oversight of complex construction activities within federally managed park environments, ensuring projects are delivered in compliance with safety, environmental, and accessibility standards. This role is initially aligned with a defined project scope, with potential opportunities for continued engagement on future Smithsonian or related cultural programs based on performance and project needs.

Who Will Succeed in This Role

This role is best suited for professionals who:

Previously supported cultural projects (e.g., GSA, NPS, Smithsonian Institute) specifically including;

  • Have a solid understanding of museum best practices, including handling, documentation, and preservation
  • Be highly organized and able to manage multiple priorities across projects
  • Communicate effectively with team members, leadership, and museum staff
  • Work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment
  • Take initiative and remain flexible
  • Maintain accuracy and attention to detail in all aspects of collections work
  • Be proactive, dependable, and solution-oriented

Key Responsibilities

  • Coordinate closely with senior Smithsonian program leadership (Washington, D.C. based) and museum representatives to ensure successful project execution
  • Prepare and maintain regular project reports, status updates, and documentation
  • Participate in project meetings and assist in identifying and resolving operational challenges
  • Collaborate with project partners, including Crozier, to support collections-related activities such as cataloguing, photography, and documentation, with responsibilities aligned to project needs
  • Perform and oversee collections management tasks, including inventory, cataloging, photography, and database management
  • Prepare condition reports and ensure proper documentation in accordance with project requirements and museum standards
  • Ensure compliance with established collections care, handling, and storage protocols
  • Assist with artifact housing, including fabrication and preparation of storage solutions as needed Support safe handling and movement of collections using appropriate equipment (e.g., pallet jacks, dollies, cradles)
  • Maintain tracking systems and documentation to support program oversight and reporting
  • Communicate effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders, both verbally and in writing

Education & Experience

Education

Bachelors degree preferably in Museum Studies or related fields of study including collections, art, history, or museum management, or a combination of education and work experience which demonstrates collection management principles.

Preferred Certifications

  • American Alliance of Museums (AAM) Professional Certificate
  • International Council of Museums (ICOM) Training/Credentials
  • Collection Care/ Preventative Conservation Certifications

Experience

  • The applicant is required to have three (3) years of full-time work or its part-time equivalent in museum curation and collection management.
  • Experience supporting regulated environments (federal, healthcare, or institutional) is highly desirable
  • Candidates may be asked to provide examples or documentation of completed projects demonstrating relevant experience

Additional Requirements

  • Familiarity with construction practices, quality assurance, scheduling, cost management, and change management
  • Demonstrated ability to exercise independent judgment in administrative, financial, and compliance matters
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, ProCore, and Adobe Acrobat
  • Strong written, verbal, and organizational communication skills

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

  • Full-time onsite work at an active construction site and office environment
  • Ability to sit, stand, walk, and use standard office equipment
  • Reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws

National Park Service Program Requirements

  • Employment may be contingent upon successful completion of background checks and compliance with National Parks suitability requirements
  • Must adhere to all site safety, security, and confidentiality policies

Benefits (Full-Time Employees)

  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance (99% of individual base plan paid by company; 50% for dependents)
  • 401(k) with up to 4% company match
  • Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays
  • Annual bonus eligibility based on individual and company performance

About SIRIS

SIRIS, LLC is a CVE-verified, Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) specializing in construction management, project management, and commissioning services for federal, healthcare, and institutional clients nationwide.

We are a trusted partner on complex projects ranging from targeted renovations to large-scale developments, bringing technical expertise, accountability, and collaboration to every engagement. Our mission-driven approach supports healthcare, cultural, and government facilities where quality, reliability, and compliance are critical.


Equal Opportunity Employer

SIRIS, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and federal contractor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

#LI-DNI