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Museum Development Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Field Museum

Chief Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$102K - $104K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Supervise and manage engineers including training and personal development * Oversee the ... The Field Museum is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free ...

Field Museum

Chief Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$102K - $104K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Supervise and manage engineers including training and personal development * Oversee the ... The Field Museum is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free ...

Field Museum

Chief Engineer

Chicago, IL

$102K - $104K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Supervise and manage engineers including training and personal development * Oversee the ... The Field Museum is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free ...

University of Findlay

Development Officer

Campus, IL

$25K/yr

... Museum, as well as academic units across the campus. 4. The Development Officer will help create a portfolio of tools for the efficient operation of the major gifts program. These will include ...

University of Chicago

Guest Services Team Lead, Events

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Works with colleagues across the Museum to support ongoing operations including support for operations and facilities, development, public practice, registration, academic engagement, etc. * Provides ...

University of Chicago

Guest Services Associate, Events

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.25 - $18.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Works with colleagues across the Museum to support ongoing operations including support for operations and facilities, development, public practice, registration, academic engagement. * Attends Smart ...

Naper Settlement

Be Seen First

Visitor Engagement Team Leader

Naperville, IL · On-site

$63K - $68K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Maintain accurate scheduling and volunteer record and communicates staffing needs and changes. 6. LEADS onboarding, ongoing training, coaching, and professional development for Museum Educators and ...

New

University of Utah

Administration Management

Campus, IL

$100K - $130K/yr

  • Retirement

Work closely with the Department, Museum leadership, and philanthropy staff on proposal development, donor engagement, and stewardship of funded projects. Cultivate relationships with the University ...

University of Utah

Administration Management

Campus, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

  • Retirement

Work closely with the Department, Museum leadership, and philanthropy staff on proposal development, donor engagement, and stewardship of funded projects. Cultivate relationships with the University ...

University of Utah

Administration Management

Campus, IL · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

  • Retirement

Work closely with the Department, Museum leadership, and philanthropy staff on proposal development, donor engagement, and stewardship of funded projects. Cultivate relationships with the University ...

University of Utah

Program Assistants

Campus, IL · On-site

$36K - $46K/yr

  • Retirement

These programs complement museum exhibitions and collections, offering memorable opportunities to ... Support the development of informational guides and program content that enhance the visitor ...

University of Utah

Program Assistants

Campus, IL

$36K - $46K/yr

  • Retirement

These programs complement museum exhibitions and collections, offering memorable opportunities to ... Support the development of informational guides and program content that enhance the visitor ...

University of Utah

Program Assistants

Campus, IL · On-site

$36K - $46K/yr

  • Retirement

These programs complement museum exhibitions and collections, offering memorable opportunities to ... Support the development of informational guides and program content that enhance the visitor ...

SSA Group

Retail - Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.75 - $18/hr

Retail Associate - Pokemon Fossil Museum Exhibition Store (The Field Museum) Who are we: For more ... developments) Compensation and Benefits * On-Demand Pay Program: Get access to a portion of earned ...

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All JobsMuseum Development JobsMuseum Development Jobs in Illinois

Museum Development information

See Illinois salary details

$17K

$103.4K

$161.8K

How much do museum development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for museum development in Illinois is $103,371.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,700.00 and $112,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in museum development, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Museum Development often encounter challenges such as securing consistent funding, balancing donor relations with institutional goals, and effectively communicating the museum's mission to potential supporters. To address these, it’s important to build strong relationships with donors, stay informed about grant opportunities, and collaborate closely with curators and leadership to align fundraising strategies with the museum’s vision. Flexibility, clear communication, and ongoing professional development are key to navigating these challenges successfully.

What is the difference between Museum Development vs Museum Education Coordinator?

AspectMuseum DevelopmentMuseum Education Coordinator
Primary FocusFundraising, grant writing, and strategic growthDesigning and implementing educational programs for visitors
Required CredentialsTypically a background in nonprofit management, fundraising, or related fieldsOften a degree in education, museum studies, or related areas
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, with some travel for outreach and eventsOn-site at museums, schools, or community centers
Industry UsageCommonly found in museums focusing on growth and sustainabilityCommon in museums emphasizing visitor engagement and education

While Museum Development focuses on fundraising and strategic growth to ensure the museum's sustainability, Museum Education Coordinators concentrate on creating educational programs to engage visitors. Both roles are vital but serve different aspects of museum operations, often working together to enhance the museum's overall mission.

What is museum development?

Museum Development refers to the process of supporting and enhancing museums through fundraising, strategic planning, audience engagement, and resource management. Professionals in this field work to secure financial support, build partnerships, and implement programs that increase a museum's impact and sustainability. Their efforts help ensure that museums remain accessible, relevant, and able to fulfill their educational and cultural missions. Museum development staff often collaborate with curators, educators, and community leaders to create lasting value for both the institution and the public.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in museum development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Museum Development, you need strong fundraising, grant writing, and project management skills, often supported by a degree in arts administration, museum studies, or nonprofit management. Familiarity with donor management systems (such as Raiser’s Edge), CRM platforms, and fundraising software is typically required. Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and strategic planning skills set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These skills are crucial for securing financial support, building community partnerships, and ensuring the museum’s long-term sustainability.

What are popular job titles related to Museum Development jobs in Illinois?

For Museum Development jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Museum Development jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Museum Development jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Museum Development jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Museum Development job openings:

Museum Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Development job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $103,371 per year, or $49.7 per hour.

Story Guide (Grant funded)

KOHL CHILDRENS MUSEUM OF GREATER CHICAGO INC

Glenview, IL • On-site

$20/hr

Part-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

The Story Guide (4 year grant funded) is a vital role in creating a welcoming, developmentally appropriate, and playful experience for museum visitors. This position facilitates many theater and storytelling programing, including creating original productions, securing and maintaining theater inventory, conducting daily programming, and providing meaningful interactions with guests.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Ensure high-quality theater/storytelling experiences primarily within the Roots of Kindness exhibit.
  • Seek opportunities for and provide high level, playful interactions with guests.
  • Help to maintain a neat and clean environment in the exhibit area.
  • Comply with all safety protocols and procedures.


SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • N/A


ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Attend monthly, quarterly and annual museum trainings and meetings as needed
  • Support team members with a positive and collaborative attitude
  • Support the Operations Team with minor sanitation duties
  • Perform other duties as assigned


QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

  • Bachelor's Degree preferred
  • Prior theater, performance, and storytelling experience
  • Minimum of 2 years of interpretive, education or public programming in a performing arts/interactive setting


KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

  • Ability to take initiative, demonstrate proficiency in storytelling, interpretation, and playful learning experiences
  • Customer Service
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office. including Word and Excel
  • Public speaking


ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Valid driver's license, own vehicle and good driving record
  • Flexibility with work schedule, as necessary, to support weekend scheduling and/or evening activities


WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Customary performance-related activities: standing, walking, sitting, bending


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Moderate lifting (up to 15 pounds)


BENEFITS

  • Paid Leave
  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Museum Membership
  • Pet Insurance

Thursday - Sunday
12:00pm-3:30pm