Great and relatively laid back place, other than during special events/festivals. Less stuck up than you might expect. - Anonymous employee Smithsonian Employee Review

4.0
Feb 16, 2018
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great exposure. Experience in plenty of fields. Fun people, it really was a fun place to go to work every morning.

Cons

Don’t expect pay or job offer after internship. The budget from the federal government is not ideal, but they should comp meals for interns at least.

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.

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