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guest experience coordinator

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what we value


Our mission is to inspire children to care about and change the world. The Museum is an innovative institution that sparks curiosity and wonder and a space where all children feel valued. In order to do this well, we need a team that reflects the dynamic and diverse communities that we serve and brings a variety of perspectives, abilities, and skills. We embrace that this work is critical to our mission and never finished. The more inclusive we are, the stronger our Museum.

the role


National Children’s Museum is a world-class institution located steps off the National Mall and Pennsylvania Avenue. The Museum celebrates the joy of childhood through playful science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) exhibits and programs.

As Guest Experience Coordinator, you will help realize this vision for hundreds of thousands of guests each year.

what you’ll do


guest experience & visitor engagement

  • Ensure an exceptional visitor experience from initial greeting through final exit for all guests;
  • Model outstanding customer service and inclusive engagement with children, families, and caregivers;
  • Actively observe guest flow, engagement, and behavior to identify opportunities for improvement;
  • Address guest concerns, questions, and conflicts with professionalism and care, including de-escalation when needed;
  • Monitor and respond to incidents involving lost children, accidents, or guest complaints in accordance with Museum protocols; and
  • Serve as an On-Duty Lead when assigned, acting as the primary point of contact for guest and staff issues.

staff leadership, coaching & observation

  • Provide day-to-day leadership, guidance, and support to Guest Experience staff and Playful Learning Facilitators;
  • Observe staff performance on the floor and model best practices in guest engagement and safety;
  • Support onboarding and training of new team members and peers;
  • Hold staff accountable to Museum policies, guest service standards, and safety procedures;
  • Support the Guest Experience Manager with scheduling and coverage to meet operational needs; and
  • Foster a collaborative, respectful team culture that positively impacts the guest experience.

operations, safety & readiness

  • Monitor Museum spaces, exhibits, and public areas to ensure they are safe, clean, stocked, and guest-ready;
  • Oversee admissions desk and gift shop readiness, including opening, restocking, organization, and POS operations;
  • Monitor compliance with safety, security, and accessibility protocols;
  • Partner with the Senior Manager of Exhibits + Facilities to identify and resolve safety or facility concerns;
  • Support smooth operations with contract vendors as needed; and
  • Assist with group arrivals and logistics for field trips, birthday parties, member programs, and special events.

facilitation & floor presence

  • Engage in play and informal facilitation with guests throughout the Museum;
  • Support or lead educational programming and pop-up experiences as needed; and
  • Maintain a visible, proactive presence on the Museum floor to support both guests and staff.

important experiences + traits for this role


  • Experience working with young children and families, with a strong commitment to playful, inclusive learning;
  • Previous experience in guest experience, visitor services, education, or related public-facing roles;
  • Demonstrated ability to lead, support, and observe staff in a fast-paced environment;
  • Strong customer service skills and ability to remain calm and professional in high-pressure situations;
  • Ability to observe visitor behavior and staff practice and translate insights into action;
  • Experience with cash handling and POS/CRM systems preferred;
  • Ability to hold staff and guests accountable to policies with clarity and respect;
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with diverse audiences;
  • Fluency in a language other than English a plus;
  • Highly observant, detail-oriented, and proactive;
  • Self-directed, adaptable, and open to feedback;
  • Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship;
  • Must be able to pass a criminal background check; and
  • Passion for the mission and values of National Children’s Museum.

physical demands + working environment


  • Ability to remain standing, walking, or sitting for extended periods and lift up to 40 lbs.;
  • Ability to interact with children and adults in exhibits, including a three-story climber and slide;
  • Occasional outdoor work;
  • Fast-paced, highly sensory environment with constant interaction with staff and visitors;
  • Punctuality and reliable attendance are required.

details


  • hours + location

    Full-time position located at National Children’s Museum, 1300 Pennsylvania Ave NW. Regular weekend work required. Schedule will adjust based on Museum needs, including occasional evenings, holidays, and special events.

  • compensation

    $54,000 - $58,000 per year, commensurate with experience and skill set. This is a benefits-eligible position, including paid time off, health insurance, life/STD/LTD insurance, and 403(b) with match.

  • to apply

    Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to hr@nationalchildrensmuseum.org with the subject line: Guest Experience Coordinator.

The National Children’s Museum is committed to equal opportunity for all employees and prospective employees without discrimination based upon race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, personal appearance, sexual orientation, political affiliation, family responsibilities, disability, matriculation, marital status or any other category protected by law. This policy applies to all aspects of employment at NCM, including, but not limited to recruitment, promotion, compensation, benefits, training and development, access to facilities, discipline, separation of employment and other terms and conditions of employment.