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 as we post job openings as they become available.
- Building Operations Assistant
- Building Operations Manager
- Education Programs Specialist and Camp Director
- Guest Experience Associate
- Human Resources Manager
- Independent Contractors
- School Partnerships Manager
- Staff Accountant
- Summer Camp Head Counselor (Seasonal)
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 Sciences / 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.
Education Programs Specialist and Camp Director
Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Reports to: Education Leadership Team
Summary of Position: This position requires a multi-dimensional educator with natural science content knowledge and a passion for teaching in both out-of-school time (OST) and formal education settings. It entails the development and implementation of onsite and offsite science and environmental education programming for a wide variety of audiences varying in ages from pre-K to adults. Program development responsibilities, especially curriculum writing and revision, are also required. As one of two Camp Directors, this position hires, trains, and supervises between 10-20 seasonal staff members (camp counselors) each year – predominantly consisting of teens and young adults – in a 2 week environmental education youth development training program. Camp Directors oversee development, operations, implementation and evaluation of 8 weeks of summer camp for 4-9 year olds and one to two week(s) of winter camp, and leadership experience in out-of-school time education is essential. Education experience that is transferable to school and community outreach education, teacher professional development, after school programming, and museum settings is pivotal. This position’s responsibilities include staying current on best practices in environmental education and child-led play, and collaborating with program leads and museum educators across the Education Department to integrate current best practices across programs. This position also provides primary support for the sharing of cross-program knowledge around outdoor learning.
Principle Duties & Responsibilities:
- Implement science education and environmental science programs to students and teachers in Chicago area schools, at the Nature Museum, and as community-based programs.
- Support all regular functions and programming of the Education Department, including program development, evaluation, and operations.
- Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with the teachers, parents, students, external partners, and other members of the communities the Nature Museum serves.
- Stay current in – and communicate to other Nature Museum educators about – best practices for environmental education, outdoor learning, child-led play, and camp industry practices.
- Leads a collaborative development process for Summer and Winter Camp which include: sharing ideas and creating and editing written materials for camp staff, families, and campers.
- Oversee program-wide operations including: creating systems and tools, collaborating with marketing to drive recruitment and registration, and managing a program budget including meeting revenue goals and managing expenses.
- Support the sharing of cross-programming knowledge, including lessons, development procedures/systems, approaches, and content.
- Develop and write curricula for formal/school-based and non-formal (OST) education programs, collaborating with appropriate people.
- Maintain administrative operations and records related to all aspects of camps programs.
- Complete animal handling training.
- Some weekends and evenings are required.
- Participate in special Museum-wide events and planning committees when appropriate.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in science and/or education fields.
- Three years teaching experience working in formal K-12 (classroom) setting or informal (museum, zoo, nature preserve) educational setting strongly preferred.
- Experience managing and training a team.
- Experience teaching or training adults, especially teachers, is a plus.
- Teaching certification is a plus.
- Current First Aid/CPR certification is a plus, but certification class will be offered
- An enthusiasm for engaging children with nature.
- Knowledge of the K-12 Framework for Science Education, Common Core, and Next Generation Science Standards.
- Knowledge of and ability to teach science, nature, and environmentally-based content to a diverse population of learners, including teachers.
- Ability to organize and manage multiple projects and tasks at once.
- Ability to communicate effectively with other educators, school administrators, outside partners, families, teens and young adults, volunteers, and Museum staff.
- Working knowledge of MS Office, Google Suite, and Windows XP.
- 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.
- Bilingual (Spanish) a plus.
- Valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle is required.
Compensation: $45,000/ year
How to Apply: Please send resume to HR-EduPrograms@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.
Guest Experience Associate (Part-Time)
Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
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 $15.80 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.
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.
Human Resources Manager
Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
The Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum has a long history of hiring engaged, talented employees, and we’re looking for a Human Resources (HR) Manager to continue this tradition. The Human Resource Manager is a key member of the Nature Museum team and is responsible for supporting a collaborative, mission-driven culture and providing excellence in HR support and services. The ideal candidate will have experience in HR or employee recruitment, with a thorough understanding of HR policies and procedures. The bulk of the role will involve strengthening our collaborative and productive culture, as well as employee orientations, benefits administration, compensation, rewards, and conflict resolution, and there is great opportunity for developing and refining policies and systems. We are looking for a Human Resources Manager who connects easily with people and has a detail-oriented mindset for handling the dynamic nature of today’s workforce. This role is in-person at the Museum.
The Ideal Candidate Is
- A detail-oriented self-starter with prior experience in human resources
- Passionate about building collaborative cultures for mission-driven organizations
- Someone who exhibits sound judgment with the ability to prioritize and make decisions
- Empathic and an excellent listener
- A team player capable of cultivating productive working relationships across the organization
- Resourceful, with a can-do attitude
- Thrives in a fast-paced environment
Responsibilities
- Enhances the organization’s human resources framework by planning, implementing, and evaluating employee relations and human resources policies, programs, and practices
- Maintains the work structure by updating job requirements and job descriptions for all positions.
- Supports organization staff by maintaining a recruiting, testing, and interviewing program; assisting managers with candidate selection when needed; conducting and analyzing exit interviews; and recommending changes
- Prepares employees, for assignments as a part of both their onboarding and ongoing professional development, by establishing and conducting orientation and training programs
- Manages a compensation plan by conducting periodic wage and salary surveys; scheduling and conducting job evaluations; preparing pay budgets; monitoring and scheduling individual pay actions; and recommending, planning, and implementing pay structure revisions
- Ensures planning, monitoring, and appraisal of employee work results by training managers to coach and discipline employees; scheduling management conferences with employees; hearing and resolving employee grievances; and counseling employees and supervisors
- Implements employee benefits programs and informs employees of benefits by studying and assessing benefit needs and trends; recommending benefit programs to management; directing the processing of benefit claims; liaising with benefits brokers; obtaining and evaluating benefit contract bids; as necessary; awarding benefit contracts; and working with the broker to design and conduct educational programs on benefit programs
- Ensures legal compliance by monitoring and implementing applicable human resource federal and state requirements, participating in investigations, and maintaining records
- Enforces management guidelines by preparing, updating, and recommending human resource policies and procedures
- Retains historical human resource records by utilizing the HRIS (currently Paylocity) and maintaining past and current records
- Cultivates professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops, reviewing professional publications, establishing personal networks, and participating in professional societies
- Collaborates in cross-departmental initiatives such as the museum’s DEAI Strategy Team
- Contributes to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed
- Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
- At least 5 years professional-level HR experience, with at least 3 years of exempt-level professional recruitment and ATS experience
- Knowledge of federal and state employment laws and regulations
- Experience working with employees in collective bargaining units in unions
- Experience managing multiple projects concurrently, demonstrating a sense of urgency, and results orientation
- Exceptional communication skills: verbal, written, and presentation
- Strong customer relations and interpersonal skills with a high level of response to all inquiries
- Strong professional maturity and judgment; Ability to handle confidential information with discretion; Ability to deliver difficult messages
- Nonprofit experience a plus
Benefits
- Comprehensive Medical, Dental + Vision Plans
- Life + Disability Benefits
- EAP + Work/Life Program Services
- 401(k) Savings Plan
- Paid Time Off
- Paid Sick Leave
How to Apply
Please send a resume and cover letter to hr-humanresources@naturemuseum.org to apply.
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.
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.
School Partnerships Manager
Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Reports to: Head of Learning Innovation
Status: Full Time
Position Summary:
The School Partnerships Manager has primary oversight of Nature Museum programming designed for ongoing, school-wide partnerships with teachers, administrators, and students. This includes the Nature Museum’s largest school-wide program, School Science Partnerships. Along with the Teacher Programs Manager, it also includes custom professional development workshops as requested and support for pre-service programs with university partners. The School Partnerships Manager co-leads the Science Teaching Network summer program with the Teacher Programs Manager.
Minimum Education Required:
- Degree in science and/or education related field or equivalent leadership experience.
- Teaching Certification preferred.
Minimum Experience Required:
- Three years experience working in a formal (classroom) or informal (museum, zoo, nature preserve) educational setting strongly preferred.
- Experience teaching or training adults. Experience with teachers preferred.
- Formal evaluation experience or training a plus.
Principal Roles and Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement a wide variety of programs for teachers, with a primary emphasis on School Science Partnerships & a significant role supporting other CAS/PNNM school partnership programs (e.g. Science Teacher Network, Science on the Go).
- Collaborate with colleagues to develop teacher professional development and to create and revise curriculum units.
- Research and communicate (to Nature Museum educators) information about relevant best practices in science teaching pedagogy, learning standards, and other research around teacher professional development.
- Guide and support Nature Museum educators on program development, operations, and implementation for school-focused professional development programs.
- Support revenue goals by securing funding and new partners for school partnership programs.
- In collaboration with Education leadership, lead evaluation practices for school partnership programs with staff and in partnership with external evaluation partners.
- Work with external partners to develop and implement collaborative programs.
- Seek out new opportunities and partnerships that promote the Nature Museum’s mission and reach new audiences.
- Support all regular functions of the Education Department, including programs at the Museum and in schools and communities for students and teachers.
- Act as Instructor of Record for the Illinois State Board of Education for administering PD Clock Hours for teacher programs.
- Maintain all administrative operations and records related to school partnerships including program budgets, attendance, program metrics, teacher stipends, PD Clock Hours, etc.
- Complete animal handling training.
- Some weekends and evenings are required.
- Participate in special Museum-wide events, initiatives, and committees when appropriate.
Brief List of Qualifications:
- Knowledge of the Next Generation Science Standards, K-12 Framework for Science Education, and Common Core.
- Knowledge and ability to teach science, nature, and environmental education content to a diverse population of learners, especially teachers.
- Ability to lead, organize, and manage multiple projects and tasks.
- Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively with other educators, school administrators, outside partners, volunteers, and Nature Museum staff.
- Ability to support, lead, and guide other educators with diverse working styles and experience levels.
- Working knowledge of MS Office, Google suite of apps (G Suite), and Windows XP.
- Bilingual (Spanish) a plus.
- 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.
- Daily travel to schools and community sites throughout city of Chicago and Chicagoland region is required.
Compensation: $49,200/ year
How To Apply:
Email resume and cover letter to: HR-EduPrograms@naturemuseum.org
Please include “School Partnerships Manager” in the subject line.
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.
Staff Accountant
Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
The Staff Accountant is a key member of the finance team and is responsible for treasury management, month-end close, postings to general ledger, inputting monthly journal entries, balance sheet account reconciliations, bank reconciliations, miscellaneous financial reports as requested, processes accounts payable, maintains vendor files, is responsible for coordinating all calendar year-end tax forms and providing back-up for other functions within the Finance Department.
The Ideal Candidate Is
- A detail-oriented self-starter with prior experience as a Staff Accountant
- Someone who exhibits sound judgment with the ability to prioritize and make decisions
- Energetic and eager to tackle new projects and ideas
- Comfortable interacting with high-level executives
- A team player capable of cultivating productive working relationships across the firm
- Resourceful, can-do attitude
- Thrives in a fast-paced environment
Responsibilities:
- Oversees daily cash management, maintains bank accounts, and act as a liaison between CAS/PNNM and financial institutions
- Records all payroll fee invoices in general ledger (MIP) and perform quarterly payroll reconciliations and analysis of fees, taxes, and the like
- Records all cash transactions in MIP, including development and all other miscellaneous revenue
- Records account transfers, bank fees, electronic payments, and the like in MIP
- Assists with preparations for annual financial audit and annual tax filing and provide support during audit fieldwork
- Maintains carefully organized files of the company’s financial records in accordance with the document retention policy
- Maintains depreciation schedule pre- and post-monthly journal entry, reconciling monthly
- Supports reconciliation of balance sheet accounts
- Custodial account reconciliation for investments
- Reviews invoices for accuracy and ties-out balance to check requests
- Reviews general ledger coding and proper approvals on all check requests to ensure expenses are coded correctly per the budget
- Processes check requests and invoices in MIP (data entry)
- Prepares and process accounts payable checks
- Monitors accounts to ensure payments are up-to-date
- Resolves invoice discrepancies
- Corresponds with vendors and responds to inquires
- Determine, process and issue 1099’s to the IRS by due dates
- Document and regularly update related processes and procedures
- In coordination with the finance team and the organization as a whole, supports, implements, maintains, and reports on work that upholds inclusion, diversity, equity, and access
- Other duties as assigned by VP of Finance
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting plus 2 years as a Staff Accountant, preferably with a nonprofit organization, or equivalent skills and experience required.
- Experience gathering and evaluating financial information and making accountable recommendations to senior leadership.
- Experience inputting and processing journal entries into a computerized accounting system, as well as a solid understanding of general accounting principles.
- Ability to analyze and reconcile balance sheet accounts and bank statements.
- Excellent computer and superb Microsoft 365, particularly Excel, skills required.
- Must be professional, analytical, detail-oriented and have excellent communication skills.
- Background and reference check required.
- Deep commitment to diversity, inclusion and equity is required.
Benefits:
- Comprehensive Medical, Dental + Vision Plans
- Life + Disability Benefits
- EAP + Work/Life Program Services
- 401(k) Savings Plan
- Paid Time Off
- Paid Sick Leave
How to Apply:
Please send a resume and cover letter to hr-finance@naturemuseum.org to apply.
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.
Student Programs Manager
Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Reports to: Education Leadership Team
Status: Full Time
The Student Programs Manager has primary oversight of the development and implementation of Nature Museum programming designed for students. This includes our largest student programs, Field Trip Workshops, afterschool programming, and Nature on the Go. It also includes leading the department in expertise on the focused educational uses of the Nature Museum’s exhibits and grounds.
Minimum Education and Experience:
- Degree in science and/or education related fields or equivalent leadership experience.
- Teaching Certification or other education field certification a plus.
- Three years experience in a formal (classroom) or informal (museum, zoo, nature preserve) educational setting strongly preferred.
Principle Roles and Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement innovative programs at the Museum and offsite for students, working closely with schools and educational partners to address the needs of students, educators, and administrators.
- Evaluate existing and new student programs to revise, improve, and maintain program quality, aligned with the Museum’s mission.
- Collaborate with the Education Team to integrate best practices in science education across programs.
- Coordinate, train, and collaborate with all Education staff to ensure high quality student programming.
- Maintain strong connections to the Museum’s scientific initiatives across all student programs.
- Guide the focused educational uses of Museum exhibits and grounds across Education programming.
- Maintain all records and budgets related to student programs including program metrics and evaluation data.
- Foster opportunities and partnerships that promote the Museum’s mission and reach new audiences.
- Support all regular functions and programming of the Education Department.
- Collaborate with Guest Experience and Engagement to ensure high-quality field trip experiences for visiting groups.
- Monitor and maintain the condition of the Science Labs as the Museum’s primary year-round education space.
- Some weekends and evenings are required.
- Participate in special Museum-wide events and planning committees when appropriate.
- Complete animal handling training and handle live animals and non-living specimens.
Brief List of Qualifications:
- Bilingual (Spanish) a plus.
- Knowledge of Next Generation Science Standards, Common Core State Standards, and science/nature content.
- Excitement and ability to teach science and nature content to a diverse population of learners.
- Ability to organize and manage multiple projects and tasks at once.
- Ability to communicate effectively with students, school and community partners, other Education and Museum staff.
- Ability to physically lift, transport, and carry program materials off-site and throughout the Museum.
- Willingness and ability to lead activities both indoors and outdoors.
- Regular travel to schools and community sites throughout Chicago and Chicagoland region is required.
Compensation: $49,200/ year
How To Apply:
Email resume and cover letter to: HR-EduPrograms@naturemuseum.org.
Please include “Student Programs Manager” in the subject line.
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.
Summer Camp Head Counselor (Seasonal)
Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Seasonal Position Duration: June 10 – August 16, 2024
Department: Education
Background: The Nature Museum Summer Camps offer children (ages 4-9) the opportunity to connect with and explore our local urban habitats. Our camp is designed to enhance campers’ critical thinking and problem solving skills as they engage in inquiry, develop science process skills, and cultivate a love for nature. Summer Camp Head Counselors are essential for ensuring the success of the camp programs. Head Counselors are responsible for developing effective curricula, leading camp activities, and managing camper groups for each camp session.
For a detailed description of the Nature Museum’s Summer Camp, please visit www.naturemuseumcamp.org.
Responsibilities: Attend a two-week training, June 10 to June 21, to participate in skills training sessions, develop curricula, and prepare activities for camp sessions. Head Counselors will use the Museum’s resources to write environmental education camp curricula. Head Counselors are responsible for creating and/or gathering all supplies needed for activities within a given budget and time frame.
Following the training and curriculum development period, Head Counselors will facilitate planned activities with campers during camp sessions. Head Counselors will supervise a group of campers with the help of one to two Counselors. Head Counselors will support the Camp Directors in the mentoring of the Counselors. Head Counselors who are assigned to facilitate the 8-9 year old camps may also manage off-site field trip programs along with the Camp Directors. By completing the training, Head Counselors will be able to show competencies in curriculum development, informal education instruction, written and oral communication, group management, and science content knowledge of our local habitats.
Time Commitment: The term of this position is from June 10 to August 16 (end date negotiable for those returning to school). The Head Counselors are scheduled to work up to 37.5 hours per week, Monday through Friday, 8am – 4pm. Head Counselors will be asked to staff our Aftercare program from 3-5pm at least one session of camp, shifting their start time those days. Preferences will be shared but they cannot be guaranteed as schedules are formalized. In addition, the Head Counselors are expected to attend several evening Camp Open Houses and a CPR and First Aid Training, if not currently certified.
Qualifications:
- Completion of sophomore year of college or above, or comparable academic or work experience
- Knowledge of and interest in science and nature-based learning;
- An aptitude for presenting information in a relevant, appropriate, and engaging manner;
- Lesson planning/implementation experience;
- Strong organizational, management, and leadership skills;
- Ability to share enthusiasm for nature and high-energy charisma with kids ages 4 to 9 years old;
- Ability to lead activities both outdoors and indoors;
- Ability to physically lift, transport, and carry program materials throughout the Museum and its grounds;
- Ability to react quickly, use best judgment, and troubleshoot;
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
- A basic understanding of child learning-styles and teaching techniques;
- Compliance with the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum’s vaccination policy
- Preferred: Current or past First Aid/CPR certification is a plus, but not required, as a certification class will be offered.
Compensation: $17.25 per hour
How to apply:To complete the application process, please complete an online application here. Please also submit a cover letter and resume to camps@naturemuseum.org. Incomplete submissions will not be reviewed.
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.