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Museum Development Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Field Museum

Annual Giving Manager

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$62K - $81K/yr

Since the 1893 World Columbian Exposition, the Field Museum has aimed to connect us all to the ... development for each appeal. * Analyze appeal results, renewal and upgrade rates, donor response ...

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All JobsMuseum Development JobsMuseum Development Jobs in Chicago, IL

Museum Development information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$18K

$109.9K

$172K

How much do museum development jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for museum development in Chicago, IL is $109,891.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,300.00 and $120,000.00 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 Chicago, IL? For Museum Development jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Museum Development jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Museum Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Museum Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Museum Development job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $109,891 per year, or $52.8 per hour.

Museum Intern

Elk Grove Park District

Elk Grove Village, IL • On-site

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Salary: Starting at: $15.00 per hour

Starting at: $15.00 per hour
Hours: Flexible


JOB SUMMARY

Here is a unique opportunity to apply first-hand the practices of the public historian. The Elk Grove Historical Museum campus includes an orientation/exhibition building, a furnished farmhouse, barn, chicken coop, and contains a fairly substantial collection for its size. The intern will experience multiple aspects of work as a public historian within a museum setting. The museum is located at 399 Biesterfield Rd. in Elk Grove Village, a northwest suburb of Chicago. Must be enrolled in a degree or certificate program including history, public history, museum studies, or related field of study.


The intern will be responsible for completing specific tasks designated at the outset of the internship. This would include becoming familiar with the basic history of the Elk Grove area and could also have the opportunity to provide tours of the site on occasion. Additionally, the intern would work directly with the collection. This would entail examining what is in the collection, assisting with an inventory, organizing the materials, and creating finding aids. Assistance with other museum duties including accessioning, exhibit design, event planning, and possibly assistance with events/programs themselves would be included. It is also possible for the intern to complete a specific project for the site. The specific topic as well as the scope of this project are to be approved by the curator of the museum and the students advisor.


ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

  • The intern must be familiar with or become familiar with accessioning
  • Process items in the collection and catalog information in CatalogIt software
  • Photograph artifacts
  • Assist in research
  • Assist with exhibit planning
  • Assist with exhibit design
  • Conduct tours
  • Assist with the planning/facilitation of events/programs as schedule allows
  • Able to lift 30lbs.


EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

  • Basic computer skills - Google Docs, Sheets, etc. Experience with CatalogIt a plus
  • Knowledge of history, research, and writing processes a plus
  • Responsible, conscientious, self-motivated


Elk Grove Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Summary of Benefits