Founded in 1857, the Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is Chicago’s oldest museum with the newest building. For more than 160 years, the Nature Museum has been dedicated to educating Chicagoans about nature and science.
Today, the Nature Museum distinguishes itself by providing more hands-on science instruction than any other museum in Chicago, and by the opportunities it provides for visitors to experience nature up close in exhibits such as its iconic Judy Istock Butterfly Haven. The Nature Museum also focuses on research, conservation and education about nature in the Midwest through participatory exhibits and programs, educational outreach, and ongoing scientific activity. Thank you for your interest in opportunities at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. All current opportunities are listed below. If there are no current positions listed, please check back often as we post job openings as they become vacant.
- Building Operations Assistant
- Building Operations Manager
- Exhibit Technician/Fabricator
- Exhibits Project Manager
- Guest Experience Associate (Part Time)
- Guest Experience and Engagement Coordinator
- Independent Contractors
Building Operations Assistant
Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Reports to: Building Operations Manager
Summary of Position:
As the Urban Gateway to Nature and Science, the Chicago Academy of Science / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum prides itself on a clean, well functioning, and safe museum environment that connects people to nature and inspires audiences to learn more about the world around them. The Building Operations Assistant performs in all facets of building operations, from HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical maintenance to exhibit and special event support. This full-time, hourly position is primarily located at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum in Lincoln Park with occasional work located at the museum’s Collections facility in the Ravenswood neighborhood.
Principle Duties and Responsibilities:
- Perform maintenance, repair, and troubleshoot lighting issues including ballast and daily lamp changing
- Routinely perform upkeep and repair of all building systems
- Control and adjust HVAC system via direct digital control, utilizing computer programs
- Light service and maintenance of building plumbing as well as effect general plumbing fixture repairs in staff and public restrooms
- Light electrical repair, carpentry, and renovation work
- Service and maintenance of Judy Istock Butterfly Haven environment mechanicals
- Maintenance and repair of small equipment, electric, and gas motors
- Assist with the construction, setup, and strike of temporary exhibits
- Assist with building maintenance issues at off-site Collections facility
- Assist in the setup and breakdown of AV equipment/lighting and seating for presentations, meetings, and special events
- Intermittent assistance in the supervision of service contractors and personnel
- This full-time position will require a work schedule that will include one weekend day as well as occasional evening work and taking call duty
Education & Qualifications:
- High school diploma or GED equiv.
- Bachelor’s or associate’s degree in electrical, mechanical, or HVAC installation, service, and maintenance preferred
- Experience in carpentry and light construction
- Excellent familiarity with wood/ metal working machinery and equipment
- Must be able to lift 60 lbs
- Must be comfortable working on ladders and elevated heights
- Proficient in verbal and written communication
- Ability to operate a forklift and skid steer a plus
How to Apply: Please send resume to hr-buildassist@naturemuseum.org
No phone calls please. Only qualified candidates will be contacted.
The Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion in all areas of the organization. We strongly encourage applications from people of color and members of underrepresented groups.
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the US. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment Visa at this time.
Building Operations Manager
Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Reports to: Chief Curator and VP Museum Experience
Summary of Position:
The Nature Museum prides itself on original, creative, educational exhibits that inspire our visitors to learn more about world around them. Critical to this is the ability to create and maintain a safe, clean, and fun environment which our visitors can enjoy. The Building Operations Manager will act as the main museum quality control officer and contact for the facilities maintenance, security contractor, and building technical services. The role will also provide critical oversight and support of special events in regard to the planning of facilities porter function and security personnel. This position will work collaboratively across various departments, with internal and external teams, as well as independently. Candidate will possess excellent communication, planning, and organizational skills.
Principle Duties and Responsibilities:
- Main in-house building operations contact. Coordinates and oversees all services ranging from PM to emergency service. Coordinating external technical vendors, such as but not limited to: elevator services contractor, HVAC contractor, security and Maintenance contractors, roofing contractors.
- Main in-house contact for all building inspections.
- Supervision, monitoring, and development of Building Engineer. On a weekly basis maintain and review the “weekly task list” with the Building Engineer updating as required.
- On-boarding and oversight of maintenance and security contractors.
- Supervision of overall condition of ME storage areas, facilities storage, paint room, and AV room.
- Management of loading dock and paver lot to maintain clean and clear of clutter.
- Coordination and assistance with snow removal as required.
All administrative aspects of building operations such as:
- Processing of building operations purchase orders, including invoice request from all contractors/vendors.
- Keep inventory & order all facilities maintenance supplies.
- Log all technical activities into the Building Report Entries.
- Attending all meetings of Museum Experience Team, internal & external partners as it pertains to special events.
- Routinely check functionality of all AV equipment, such as lamps, update software, batteries.
- Oversight, implementation and maintaining current best practices of the Emergency Action Plan, including planning of fire drills and specialized security issues.
- Development of cross department initiatives involving building operations such as accessibility & safety concerns.
- Main in-house contact for internal & external special events.
- Coordinating staff coverage, engineering, facilities, and security.
- Coordinating room set up and break down.
- Coordinating & implementing AV set up.
How to Apply:
Please apply at: https://peggy-notebaert-nature-museum.breezy.hr/p/4634031f5bfb-building-operations-manager
Only qualified candidates will be contacted. No phone calls please.
The Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion in all areas of the organization. We strongly encourage applications from people of color and members of underrepresented groups.
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the US. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment Visa at this time.
Exhibit Fabricator/Technician
Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Supervisor Title: Director of Exhibit Design and Production
Summary of Position: We are seeking a full time Exhibit Fabricator/Technician to assist in the creation of new environments and exhibits and maintain the look and function of existing exhibits.
The Exhibit Fabricator/Technician will be part of a team that produces world class exhibits and experiences. A successful candidate will possess strong fabrication, design, and visualization skills and contribute a positive mental attitude to the production team and the work. A capacity for independent work in a fast paced environment and a demonstrated commitment to nature and environmental sustainability are essential.
Principle Duties and Responsibilities:
- Engineering and fabrication of in-house temporary and permanent exhibits.
- Maintenance, troubleshooting and repair of 2D and 3D displays.
- Ongoing maintenance and service for all shop equipment and supplies.
- Sourcing and ordering materials and supplies from new and established vendors.
- Installation of leased temporary exhibits.
- Installation of flat artwork using museum standard practices.
- Lighting of 2/D and 3/D displays.
- One weekend day and occasional evening hours will be required.
Qualifications:
- Must possess exceptionally strong design, construction and fabrication skills including woodworking, metalworking and plastic forming.
- Must have at least 4 years experience in exhibit /display design and fabrication.
- Must possess a valid driver’s license.
- Must have the ability to lift 50 lbs and to ascend, descend and work on ladders and personnel lifts.
- Proficient in the use of hand and power tools and equipment.
- Working knowledge of mechanical, electronic, and audio visual equipment.
- Desire and ability to work both independently and within a team environment.
- Proficiency in industry standard CAD software such as Vectorworks, AutoCAD, SketchUP is a plus.
- Knowledge of digital fabrication practices (CNC, CAM, 3D Printing) is a plus.
- Previous experience in interactive prototyping is a plus.
Compensation: Commensurate with experience
How to Apply:
Please apply at: https://peggy-notebaert-nature-museum.breezy.hr/p/664d4a934396-exhibit-technician-fabricator
Only qualified candidates will be contacted. No phone calls please.
The Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion in all areas of the organization. We strongly encourage applications from people of color and members of underrepresented groups.
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the US. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment Visa at this time.
Exhibits Project Manager
Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Reports to: Chief Curator of the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum / Vice President of Museum Experience
This full-time role will act in many facets of exhibition creation, from developing and supervising schedules and budgets, assisting in concept development, prototyping and installation. This position collaborates extensively with content experts, scientists, artists, collections managers, educators and designers for the research, development, and interpretation of permanent and temporary exhibitions.
Duties & Responsibilities:
- Acts as Project Manager for temporary exhibits projects:
- Research and compile leased exhibition possibilities.
- Serve as primary contact for communicating with institutions for leased exhibitions.
- Create and maintain overall temporary exhibit project schedule and budget.
- Oversee and track exhibit production progress as pertains to schedule
- Report on the incoming and outgoing conditions of leased exhibit elements
- Collate, track and report budget for temporary exhibits and department expenditures.
- Research, write and edit exhibit labels, visitor collateral, and other exhibition interpretation materials for smaller temporary exhibits
- Act as a vital Exhibits team member for in-house and permanent exhibitions:
- Process, document and report project and departmental expenditures.
- Assists in the development of original content for temporary and permanent exhibits.
- Conduct primary topic research and help develop Content Resource Documents for in-house exhibits.
- Research and aid in development of exhibit interactives.
Qualifications:
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in exhibition development
- Experience in interactive development and prototyping
- Proven ability to communicate complex ideas with a wide range of audiences
- Extensive research, writing and copy editing experience
- Experience managing budgets, contracts and working within tight deadlines
- Proficiency in Word, Excel, and a basic understanding of VectorWorks and AutoCAD a plus
- Experience in digital interpretation, development and initiatives a plus
- Demonstrated commitment to nature, conservation, and community improvement.
Education: Bachelor’s degree (MA preferred) in museum education, environmental education, anthropology or related field, or equivalent
Salary Range: $40,000-$44,000
How to Apply:
Please apply at: https://peggy-notebaert-nature-museum.breezy.hr/p/a40c92e76d8e-exhibits-project-manager
Only qualified candidates will be contacted. No phone calls please.
The Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion in all areas of the organization. We strongly encourage applications from people of color and members of underrepresented groups.
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the US. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment Visa at this time.
Guest Experience Associate
Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Status: Part-Time
The Guest Experience Associate is a multi-faceted position that requires an energetic and welcoming individual who thrives in a team environment providing the Nature Museum’s visitors and guests a dynamic experience during their visit to the Museum.
Desired Experience:
Previous customer service experience at a cultural institution such as a museum, art gallery, or theater.
Position Requirements and Duties:
- Professional and engaging personality that promotes a spirit of positivity to guests and fellow teammates.
- Providing excellent customer service by centering diversity, inclusion, accessibility, and equity into each interaction.
- Greeting guests, processing Museum visitor admission tickets and selling memberships.
- Working the register in the store selling items. As well as stocking, cleaning, and organizing the Museum Store.
- Monitoring our Butterfly Haven exhibit (special training provided).
- Working the coat check window.
- Assisting with school group processing.
- Support Daily and Special Event program facilitation.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends, evenings and holidays.
- Participating in on site and virtual training pertaining to Museum-relevant subjects.
- Other customer service related duties as assigned.
Compensation: This role is a part-time non-exempt position and pays an hourly rate of $15.40 per hour.
How to Apply: Please send resume and cover letter to hr-geassociate@naturemuseum.org
No phone calls please. Only qualified candidates will be contacted.
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the US. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment Visa at this time.
The Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion in all areas of the organization. We strongly encourage applications from people of color and members of underrepresented groups.
Guest Experience and Engagement Coordinator
Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
This position requires a collaborative informal educator and leader to bridge several department priorities.
First, this position acts as Floor Supervisor when the Assistant Manager of Guest Experience and Engagement is not present. This supervision includes being manager on duty for Guest Experience and Engagement front-line staff, museum Emergency Response Coordinator, and coordination of group processing. Though this position has no direct reports, they will coach staff as needed and collaborate with the team of supervisors to ensure continuity of staff development.
Second, this position is part of the facilitation team for the Nature Museum’s informal education programs including daily museum programs, public events, and other on and offsite events. This position’s responsibilities include staying current on best practices in informal education, helping to train and coach interpretation volunteers, and participating in the development of new programs.
Finally, this position works on the team that is responsible for implementing the Chicago Conservation Corps (C3) Program. C3 is the Nature Museum’s grassroots sustainability program. This position participates in implementation of the leader training cohorts, community engagement, and ensuring that the program continues to stay up to date and meets its goals
Minimum Education Required:
- High School Diploma
Experience Required:
- Experience working with the public, adults and children, in a customer service role is essential
- Some coaching experience is required
Principle Roles and Responsibilities:
- Effectively supervise the floor of the museum during daily operations. This includes daily staff management, functions of ticketing system and store point of sale, fielding guest feedback, communicating with facilities, security, and exhibits team members, taking out and putting away cash drawers and other general troubleshooting.
- Actively respond as Emergency Response Coordinator while supervising the floor of the museum.
- Play a key role in daily group processing.
- Collaborate with the C3 team to lead the Chicago Conservation Corps (C3) Program focusing on implementation of the leader training cohorts, but also contributing to community engagement and ensuring that the program continues to stay up to date and meets its goals.
- Coordinate liaisons for C3 projects.
- Play a role in implementing in-museum programming. Facilitate specialty programs for onsite and offsite museum events as well as daily museum programming.
- Participate in the training of new facilitators, both staff and volunteers.
- Support volunteers as day-of point of contact and coach.
- Support efforts to make sure that programs reach wide audiences, lowering barriers to access for all guests.
- Collaborate with team members to prototype and refine new and updated museum programs.
- Participate in special Museum-wide events and planning committees when appropriate.
- Stay current in best practices for science teaching and learning, environmental education, positive youth development, and museum education.
- Support event implementation.
- Complete animal handling training.
- Some weekends and evenings are required.
- Serve on interdepartmental committees.
- Other duties as assigned.
Brief List of Qualifications:
- Knowledge of and ability to teach science, nature, and environmentally-based content to a diverse population of learners.
- Ability to prioritize, organize, and manage multiple projects and tasks at once.
- Ability to build and maintain coaching relationships with staff and peers.
- Ability to communicate effectively with outside partners, volunteers, and Museum staff.
- Working knowledge of Google Suite, MS Office, and Windows Operating Systems.
- Ability to physically lift, transport, and carry program materials off-site and throughout the Museum.
- Ability to lead activities both indoors and outdoors.
- Comfort handling live animals and non-living specimens.
Nice to have, but not required:
- Informal education experience at a museum, nature center, zoo, or similar institution working with all ages
- Familiarity with Chicago sustainability community
- Valid driver’s license, insurance, and access to a vehicle
- First Aid certified
- Bilingual (Spanish)
Salary: $16.50 per hour, with benefits package included.
Schedule: Includes both weekend days.
How to Apply:
Please submit a cover letter and resume at: hr-guestexperience@naturemuseum.org
No phone calls please. Only qualified candidates will be contacted.
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the US. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment Visa at this time.
The Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion in all areas of the organization. We strongly encourage applications from people of color and members of underrepresented groups.
Data shows that minority candidates frequently do not apply for a job because they don’t feel that they meet all of the qualifications listed. Our job descriptions are general overviews, not a mandatory comprehensive list. If you feel passionate about our efforts and believe that you have the skills to contribute to the growth of our organization, we want to hear from you!
Independent Contractors
Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
The Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is hiring independent contractors to install and dismantle temporary exhibitions in the Special Exhibitions Gallery and for other events during the year on a temporary basis- generally winter, late spring, and early fall.
Duties & Responsibilities:
Requirements vary for each exhibition. Most contractors will be required, under direction of the Exhibit Production Supervisor and/or the Lead Exhibit Fabricator to:
- Assist in preparing the gallery (including new construction, and repainting).
- Assist the forklift operator loading and unloading trucks at the dock.
- Handle crates to and from the dock, the freight elevator and the 2nd floor gallery.
- Pack and unpack exhibit components and move empty crates to and from storage.
- Distribute and assemble or disassemble components per provided instructions and drawings.
- Assist in hanging, moving, and focusing lighting instruments in the gallery.
- Clear and clean the gallery and the exhibition in preparation for opening.
- Ability to lift and hold up to 60 lbs.
- Familiarity with the safe use of hand and power tools, dock equipment and personal protective gear, and general carpentry/assembly experience are preferred.
- A positive attitude toward the work and the exhibition team, pleasant and professional conduct toward all museum staff and visitors, and self-motivation to complete assigned tasks are required.
Compensation: Compensation starts at $15 per hour working 6-10 hours per day.
Some evenings and/or weekends are required.
How to Apply:
Please send resume to CAScontractor@naturemuseum.org
No phone calls please. Only qualified candidates will be contacted.
The Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion in all areas of the organization. We strongly encourage applications from people of color and members of underrepresented groups.
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the US. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of employment Visa at this time.
