How to Be Museum Attendant - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Mar 19, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

The number of museum visits has seen a significant increase in recent years, due in part to the proliferation of digital media and online resources. As digital media has become more accessible, it has given people the opportunity to explore and engage with history and culture from all over the world. This has driven more people to seek out physical artifacts and experiences in museums, as a way to learn about the past and gain new insights into the present.

As a result, museum attendants have become increasingly important for providing guidance and assistance to visitors as they explore the museum's offerings. Furthermore, attendants can help protect the integrity of the museum's collection by ensuring that visitors are respectful of the artifacts and adhere to safety protocols.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. Most employers require museum attendants to have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Complete Relevant Post-Secondary Education. Although it is not mandatory, some employers prefer to hire museum attendants with post-secondary education in history, art history, anthropology, or another related field.
Secure Relevant Work Experience. Many employers prefer to hire museum attendants with experience working in museums or other public-facing settings. Museum attendant positions are usually entry-level, so it is possible to obtain this experience through volunteer work or internships.
Develop Interpersonal Skills. Museum attendants must be able to communicate effectively with visitors and other staff members. Developing strong interpersonal skills is key to success in this field.
Apply for Positions. Once you have developed the necessary qualifications, you can begin applying for museum attendant positions. Many employers post job listings on their websites, as well as popular job-search sites such as Indeed and Monster.
Pass a Background Check. Before you can begin working as a museum attendant, you must pass a background check. This is to ensure that you do not have any past criminal convictions that might put visitors at risk.

Museum attendance is highly dependent on the quality of the experience offered. A museum that is well-maintained, with knowledgeable staff, interesting exhibits, and a variety of special events, will draw more visitors. On the other hand, a poorly maintained museum with few exhibits, incomplete information and little to no special events will not attract many visitors.

Skilled and efficient staff can make all the difference in creating a positive experience for visitors, by providing them with helpful information, friendly customer service and a safe, enjoyable atmosphere. This in turn can result in increased attendance and revenue for the museum. In short, well-trained staff is essential for creating a successful museum that will bring in more visitors.

You may want to check Cruise Ship Attendant, Theatre Usher/Attendant, and Library Attendant for alternative.

Job Description

Greet visitors in a polite and friendly manner
Provide information to visitors about the museum and its exhibits
Answer questions visitors may have about the museum
Monitor visitors to ensure they are following museum rules
Assist visitors with using any available audio-visual equipment
Ensure that exhibits are kept clean and tidy
Report any damage or vandalism to the appropriate authorities
Process payments for any merchandise purchases
Ensure that the museum is secure at closing time
Assist with the opening and closing of the museum each day

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of museum history and artifacts.
Strong customer service skills.
Ability to answer questions and provide information to visitors.
Ability to operate audio-visual equipment.
Ability to maintain order and security in the museum.
Ability to use computer systems to track visitor information and sales.
Ability to follow instructions and work as part of a team.
Demonstrated problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
Physical stamina to stand for long periods of time.

Good communication skills are essential for a museum attendant. Being able to effectively interact with guests, answer questions, and explain exhibits is key to providing an enjoyable experience for visitors. museum attendants need to be organized, reliable, and have strong attention to detail to ensure the safety of guests and the accuracy of information.

A successful museum attendant must also be able to work independently and as part of a team, manage their time efficiently, and be comfortable with public speaking. These qualities are vital when it comes to providing an enjoyable experience for visitors and ensuring that the museum runs smoothly. having strong communication, organizational, and time management skills is essential for a museum attendant to be successful in their role.

Banquet Hall Attendant, Cashier Attendant, and Car Wash Attendant are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working in a museum?
How familiar are you with the museum's history and artifacts?
What do you find most interesting about working in a museum setting?
Do you have any knowledge or experience of curatorial duties?
How would you handle a situation where a visitor is behaving inappropriately?
Describe a time when you had to respond to an emergency situation while on duty at a museum.
What skills do you possess that you believe make you well suited to working as a Museum Attendant?
How do you ensure visitors enjoy their experience at the museum?
Describe a time when you diffused a difficult situation between visitors.
What strategies do you use to ensure visitors are safe at the museum?

Common Tools in Industry

Computer. A device used to store, process, and display data and information (eg: Desktop, laptop, tablet).
Cash Register. A mechanical device used to record sales and calculate change due (eg: POS system).
Printer. A device used to output a physical copy of documents or images (eg: Inkjet or laser printer).
Telephone. A device used to transmit and receive voice communications (eg: Landline phone or mobile phone).
Intercom System. A two-way communication system used to deliver messages throughout a building (eg: Paging system).
Security System. A system used to monitor and protect a facility from theft or damage (eg: Burglar alarm or CCTV camera).
Audio/Video Equipment. Devices used to record or broadcast audio and/or video (eg: Microphone or projector).
Scanner. A device used to capture and digitally store images or text (eg: Handheld scanner or document scanner).
Database Software. A program used to store and organize data (eg: Microsoft Access or Oracle).
Office Supplies. Items used to support daily tasks in an office setting (eg: Pens, paper, stapler).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Alliance of Museums (AAM)
International Council of Museums (ICOM)
American Association of State and Local History (AASLH)
Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC)
National Association for Museum Exhibition (NAME)
American Association of Museums (AAM)
International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS)
National Council on Public History (NCPH)
Society of American Archivists (SAA)
Association of African American Museums (AAAM)

We also have Parking Attendant, Gas Station Attendant, and Airport Ticketing Attendant jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Artifact. A physical object or remnant of the past that has cultural or historical value, usually kept in a museum, library, or archive.
Collection. A group of artifacts, documents, or objects with a common theme or purpose, often kept together in a museum or library.
Exhibition. A display of artifacts or objects in a museum, library, or archive.
Conservator. A professional who specializes in preserving and restoring cultural artifacts or documents.
Curator. A professional responsible for the management and care of a museum's collections, exhibitions, and educational programs.
Cataloging. The process of organizing and cataloging artifacts for a museum or library collection.
Archivist. A professional responsible for preserving, organizing, and storing historical documents and artifacts for a library, archive, or museum.
Docent. A volunteer or paid teacher who provides guided tours and educational programs in a museum or library.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the job of a Museum Attendant?

A Museum Attendant is responsible for providing visitor services and maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for museum guests. This includes greeting visitors, answering questions, providing information about exhibits, and enforcing safety and security policies.

What qualifications do I need to become a Museum Attendant?

To become a Museum Attendant, you typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, prior customer service experience, and knowledge of the museum's exhibits and collections.

How much does a Museum Attendant typically earn?

According to PayScale, the average salary for a Museum Attendant is $30,000 per year.

What are some of the duties of a Museum Attendant?

The duties of a Museum Attendant include greeting visitors, providing information about exhibits, enforcing safety and security policies, monitoring museum activity, and responding to emergency situations.

What are the working hours for a Museum Attendant?

The working hours for a Museum Attendant may vary depending on the museum's operating hours, but generally range from 8-10 hours per day, 5-7 days per week.