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Docent Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Docent information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$5

$20

$26

How much do docent jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for docent in Chicago, IL is $20.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $26.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a docent?

Docents are trained volunteers or staff members who serve as guides and educators at museums, zoos, historical sites, and other cultural institutions. They lead tours, answer visitor questions, and provide interpretive information about exhibits or collections. Docents play a key role in enhancing the visitor experience by making learning engaging and accessible. Their responsibilities may also include developing educational materials and participating in outreach programs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a docent, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Docent, you need strong subject-matter expertise, excellent public speaking skills, and typically a background in education, history, or the arts. Familiarity with audio-visual equipment and visitor management systems is often required for effective presentations and group coordination. Exceptional interpersonal skills, enthusiasm, and adaptability help docents engage diverse audiences and foster memorable learning experiences. These skills ensure that visitors receive accurate information and an engaging, educational experience tailored to their interests.

How does a docent typically collaborate with other museum staff to enhance visitor experiences?

Docents often work closely with curators, educators, and visitor services teams to ensure that tours and educational programs are engaging and accurate. They attend regular training sessions to stay updated on new exhibits and interpretive techniques, and may participate in planning meetings to coordinate special events or group visits. This collaboration helps create a cohesive visitor experience, as docents share insights from guest interactions that can inform exhibit updates and educational materials.

What is the difference between Docent vs Tour Guide?

AspectDocentTour Guide
Required CredentialsOften no formal certification, but knowledge of subject matterMay require licensing or certification depending on location
Work EnvironmentMuseums, galleries, educational institutionsTourist attractions, historical sites, city tours
Employer & IndustryEducational and cultural institutionsTravel and tourism industry
Common Search & ComparisonEducational, museum-based rolesTravel, sightseeing roles

While both Docents and Tour Guides engage with the public and provide educational information, Docents typically work within museums or galleries focusing on specific exhibits and may not require formal certification. Tour Guides usually lead groups at tourist sites, often needing licensing or certification, and work in the travel and tourism industry. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right role based on your interests and qualifications.

Do docents make money?

Docents are typically volunteer guides at museums, galleries, or cultural sites and usually do not receive pay. However, some institutions may offer stipends, hourly wages, or part-time compensation for experienced or specialized roles. Payment varies depending on the organization and location.

How long does it take to train as a docent?

Training to become a docent typically takes several weeks to a few months, depending on the organization and the complexity of the exhibits or topics. The process often includes attending training sessions, studying materials, and sometimes completing assessments or shadowing experienced docents.

What do you need to be a docent?

To be a docent, you typically need strong communication skills, a passion for education and the subject matter, and often some prior knowledge or experience related to the museum, gallery, or institution. Many organizations require volunteers to complete training sessions and may prefer candidates who are personable, reliable, and able to engage visitors effectively.

What are the most commonly searched types of Docent jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Docent jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Docent jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Docent jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Docent jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Docent jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Docent jobs near you
Infographic showing various Docent job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 40% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $42,622 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Document Control Lead/Supervisor (Hybrid)

DivIHN

Chicago, IL • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

For further inquiries regarding the following opportunity, please contact one of our Talent Specialists, Vijay at 630-847-1776 or Arun at 224-214-4555 or Jessolin at 224-704-1714
Title: Document Control Lead/Supervisor (Hybrid)
Location: Chicago, IL
Duration: 12 Months
Only W2 candidates are eligible for this position. Third-party or C2C candidates will not be considered
Description
The Document Control Lead/Supervisor will be responsible for managing daily activities and workflow processes for approximately three Document Control Specialists. Collets, maintains and distributes all documents necessary to define construction specifications that insure conformance to engineering and/or project management requirements, develops and maintains a comprehensive filing system and database for all documents to be retained in the document control system, manages the operation of the document control system, manages the operation of the document control system to ensure that all users have the latest revision of the appropriate documentation in a timely manner.
Job Duties:
  • Fifty percent Supervise and participate in the Document Control functions of document fulfillment, release, change, and archiving.
  • Audit incoming documents to ensure consistency of form and accuracy of information.
  • Coordinate with Field Operations for collecting, inputting, and filing all data and reports relating to Site Inspectors.
  • Maintain document files to be orderly, up to date and ready for audit at all times. Maintain project document logs.
  • Prepare and maintain the Document Management Plan.
  • Twenty-five percent Provide for the development and maintenance of document control systems to track product documentation throughout a products life cycle.
  • Ensure appropriate systems are in place to track all facets of Docent Control functions.
  • Audit document releases to ensure accuracy and proper storage/archiving.
  • Coordinate and communicate changes in document control functions and processes.
  • Twenty-five percent Supervise and provide directions, training, and feedback to assigned personnel.
  • Identify and recommend staffing needs and prepare/update job descriptions.
  • Conduct performance appraisals and make salary recommendations.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma, HSED or Ged5
  • Bachelor's degree preferred but not required.
  • 5+ years Project Management (e.g., understanding engineering concepts and document flow)
  • 5+ years Providing services on major construction programs.
  • 5+ years or experience in Document Control environment in an engineering or construction company, oil and gas or within a utility
  • 3+ years of experience in Microsoft Office products and Adobe Professional. Scanning and printing with OCE plotters, and experience should include working in an electronic Document Management System.

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