Worst employer ever; a new low - Visitor Services Smithsonian Employee Review

1.0
Aug 3, 2014
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

No pros in reality. I have nothing positive to say; except that I no longer work here.

Cons

Long hours in summer/ short or no hours in winter. Minimal pay.; no benefits until a certain number of hours is accrued ( and they make certain that that takes 3-4 years to occur) Incompetent , lazy,management; that treats employees with suspicion. HR is a joke. Little or no chance for promotion or job growth unless you meet the right "demographics" (under 30; preferably not a minority; or with a disability). Only bearable if you are a teen as a summer job that never makes it on your resume. You rarely even see an animal.

Explore other reviews about Smithsonian

5.0
Jun 8, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great mission. Strong benefits including health insurance and 403b contribution. Many people stick around for 5, 10, 15+ years.

Cons

Things are sometimes slow due to bureaucracy.

4.0
Jun 6, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

There is a strong community and network in museum and natural science collections and support.

Cons

Working conditions have a standard of museum environment settings, not ideal for those that desire to be outside all day.

See reviews by: Helpful|Rating|Date|All