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 and Engagement Coordinator
- Independent Contractors
- Private Events Specialist
- Research Scientist (Early-Career)
- 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. One weekend day will be required.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities:
- Main in-house contact and supervision for maintenance and repair contractors. Coordinates and oversees all building support services ranging from preventive maintenance to emergency service. Coordinating the work of outside vendors, such as elevator services, HVAC maintenance and repair, security and custodial maintenance, roofing and MEP contractors.
- Main in-house contact for all City of Chicago building inspection personnel
- Direct supervision of Building Maintenance Assistant. Create, maintain and review the “weekly task list” with the Building Operations Assistant, updating as required.
- On-boarding and oversight of maintenance and security contractors
- Supervision and maintenance of ME storage areas, facilities storage, paint room, and AV room.
- Management of loading dock and paver lot to maintain areas clean and clear of clutter
- Responsible for light electrical, plumbing and Drywall Repairs
- Responsible for in house light construction and painting projects
- 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, software updates and 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 strike. Coordinate & implement 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 and Engagement Coordinator
Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Reports to: Director of Guest and Community Engagement
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. The position also helps with implementation of guest birthday parties both as a host for the adult planners and as a facilitator for the younger party guests.
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 family event implementation.
- Complete animal handling training.
- Some schedule shifts 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: Wednesday – Sunday
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.
Private Events Specialist
Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Reports to: Senior Director of Guest Experience and Engagement
The Opportunity:
The Nature Museum seeks an organized and detail-oriented individual to be the Private Events Specialist. This is a key role in the continued development of our private events capacity. They will lead all steps, start to finish, of the event planning process, for anything like birthdays, graduation parties, work events, weddings, and more. The Private Events Specialist will collaborate with guests and vendors to ensure a seamlessly planned and executed event. Experience in aquariums, zoos, museums, and/or other cultural institutions is desirable, but not essential.
The Ideal Candidate:
- Enjoy being with, engaging, and adapting to children
- Positive and outgoing attitude
- Ability to adapt and operate in a dynamic and creative environment
- Excitement for nature
- Strong decision making skills
- Relate to Nature Museum mission and core values
- Ability to work successfully with and support a team
Key Responsibilities of the Private Events Specialist include:
- Manages inquiries for all private events
- Responsible for providing strategy and oversight of all Nature Museum private events, focusing on impact and efficiencies.
- Coordinates with the Museum team to ensure proper space usage, equipment usage, and staff supports
- Develops a broad network of vendors for event needs
- Coordinates with vendors for food, decor, dishware, etc.
- Communicates updates and processes with the guests and ensures a clear expectation of event needs.
- Manages all aspects of planning and executing private events for the Museum including scheduling, coordinating room set-ups, audio/visual coordination, meals, and staffing to ensure events run smoothly from beginning to end.
- Ensures private event revenues are meeting monthly and yearly goals with thorough tracking.
- Collaborate with supervisor to identify opportunities to increase revenues.
- Support internal Museum events
- Works cross-departmentally to keep the team informed of event needs
- Stay up to date on best practices and trends in museum and non-museum private events.
- Other duties as assigned
Requirements:
- At least two years of managing events and vendor relationships or related experience
- Proven ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
- Attention to detail.
- Proven experience generating vendor relationships
- Proven ability to analyze problems and solutions in a proactive, constructive, and creative manner
- Curiosity and drive to stay ahead of trends in museum and non-museum private events
- Ability to forge and maintain effective working relationships with a variety of stakeholders.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Comfort handling live animals and non-living specimens.
Nice to have, but not required:
- Bilingual Spanish
- Certified Professional in Catering and Events (CPCE)
- Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP)
- Certified Event Planning Specialist (CEPS)
Salary: $40,000 – $45,000 / year
Schedule: Wednesday – Sunday
Benefits:
- Comprehensive Medical, Dental + Vision Plans
- Life + Disability Benefits
- 401(k) Savings Plan
- Paid Time Off
- Paid Sick Leave
How to Apply:
Please send a resume and cover letter to hr-privateevents@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.
Research Scientist (Early-Career)
Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
We are inviting applications for an early-career research scientist in the Biology Department at the Chicago Academy of Sciences/Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. The research scientist will develop and engage in original research projects focusing on conservation of imperiled wildlife and their ecosystems in Northeastern Illinois, or the Midwest/Great Lakes region. They will advance knowledge for the persistence of species within their taxonomic focus area within regional ecosystems. To support the Academy’s focal areas, researchers engaged in conservation within the fields of herpetology, entomology, malacology, invasive species ecology, or other aspects of restoration ecology and wildlife conservation, are strongly encouraged to apply.
The research scientist will contribute to our research program focused on applied conservation, reintroduction, habitat management, and monitoring needs of regionally imperiled wildlife, or local ecosystems, working in coordination with land management agencies. The research scientist will prepare and publish original research in peer-reviewed journals, participate in professional society meetings, regional research and conservation meetings, panels, and forums.
If the researcher’s work entails a headstarting or captive rearing component, they may coordinate with our Living Collections team to develop care protocols and research questions related to these conservation approaches, such as inquiries into wildlife health and behavior. The research scientist may collaborate on existing community science program offerings, or develop new areas of engagement in participatory science around the conservation of regional biodiversity.
The research scientist will collaborate with the Advancement Department to identify funding opportunities, and prepare grant proposals to support conservation research. They will determine and manage their research project budgets, and be responsible for purchasing project supplies. The research scientist will be responsible for recruitment, training, supervision, and scheduling of any seasonal field research personnel associated with their grant and contract work.
The researcher may collaborate with the Collections Department to provide specimen identification support for research requests in their taxonomic area and utilize the scientific collections and archives to inform research. The researcher is encouraged to contribute to the Academy’s collections through submission of salvaged specimens or of other specimens collected under permitted research.
The research scientist will work cross-departmentally to provide content expertise for the development of museum exhibits, educational programs and workshops, and informal museum programming or events. The research scientist will also provide training and professional development opportunities to members of the Biology Department and Education Department, in their area of expertise (e.g. teaching sampling techniques, field site visits, presentation of study results).
The research scientist will serve as a museum representative of their research, and general ecological information, to print, broadcast, and online media, and provide presentations on a range of relevant topics to diverse audiences.
The research scientist may pursue partnerships or affiliations with regional universities for teaching relevant courses, or for advising/co-advising undergraduates, graduate students, and postdoctoral associates.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and conduct original research on select aspects of conservation of regional wildlife in Northeastern Illinois/the Midwest/the Great Lakes region
- Independently determine and manage long-term conservation research projects, establish project timelines, and provide regular deliverables (e.g. contract or grant reports, publications), building partnerships with external collaborators when possible
- Work closely with the VP of Conservation Research and other Biology Department members (e.g. Associate Curator of Entomology, Manager of Living Collections, Manager of Horticulture), to design, implement and deliver collaborative research projects
- Work with the VP of Conservation Research to update the Department’s Conservation Research Plan to reflect the researcher’s projects and identify new areas of inquiry
- Work with the Advancement Department to pursue funding sources to support research. Determine and manage budgets for the researcher’s projects, coordinating with the Finance Department on invoices, expense reports, and budget projections for research projects
- Purchase materials and supplies necessary for research projects
- Prepare grant reports in coordination with the Advancement and Finance Departments
- Prepare all necessary permit reports for the researcher’s projects (e.g. Illinois Threatened and Endangered Species Permits, Illinois Scientific Research Permits, Illinois Nature Preserves Special Use Permits)
- Recruit, train, and supervise seasonal support staff (e.g field technicians) or grant-supported staff for research projects as external funding permits
- Coordinate the development of protocols for conservation projects with the Manager of Living Collections or the Manager of Horticulture as needed
- Be an active presence in the conservation and ecological restoration communities.
- Present research findings through publication and presentation, including peer-reviewed journals, books, and proceedings of professional meetings
- Serve as a content expert for the development of museum exhibits, educational programming, and informal museum programming
Requirements:
Qualified applicants must have a Ph.D. or be within 4 months of defending their dissertation.
Prior experience should include: independently managing research projects, providing deliverables to funders, managing project budgets, grant-writing, production of peer-reviewed publications, delivery of scientific presentations and talks for general audiences, conducting statistical analyses, and obtaining scientific research permits for their research.
Other desired skills include:
Teaching experience at the college or high school level, or with adult learners
To Apply: Applicants should submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, contact information for three references, a representative publication (or in prep manuscript if applicable), and a research statement outlining the scope of their work and future directions of interest to: hr-bioresearcher@naturemuseum.org
The interview process will include virtual/in-person interviews and a research presentation to Biology and Collections department staff, along with staff members from other departments (Education, Exhibits, Guest Engagement, Advancement) as availability permits.
Salary range: $65,000-$70,000
Benefits:
- Comprehensive Medical, Dental + Vision Plans
- Life + Disability Benefits
- EAP + Work/Life Program Services
- 401(k) Savings Plan
- Paid Time Off
- Paid Sick Leave
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.
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.