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Natural Science Museum Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Natural Science Museum information

What is a natural science museum?

Natural science museums are institutions dedicated to educating the public about the natural world, including subjects like biology, geology, paleontology, and environmental science. They typically display collections of fossils, minerals, plants, animal specimens, and interactive exhibits to help visitors learn about the history and diversity of life on Earth. These museums often offer educational programs, workshops, and special events for students and families. Their goal is to promote scientific understanding and inspire curiosity about the natural world.

What are common challenges faced by staff working at a natural science museum, and how can they be addressed?

Staff at natural science museums often encounter challenges such as balancing educational programming with exhibit maintenance, managing large groups of visitors (including school tours), and keeping scientific information up-to-date and engaging. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as staff frequently collaborate with educators, curators, and researchers to develop exhibits and public programs. Staying proactive with ongoing professional development and fostering a collaborative environment can help address these challenges and contribute to a rewarding work experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a natural science museum curator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Natural Science Museum Curator, you need a strong background in natural sciences, museum studies, and typically a relevant advanced degree. Familiarity with collection management systems, conservation techniques, and exhibit design software is highly valuable. Excellent organizational, communication, and public engagement skills help curators educate visitors and collaborate with researchers and staff. These skills are crucial for preserving collections, designing compelling exhibits, and fostering community interest in science.

What is the difference between Natural Science Museum vs Science Educator?

AspectNatural Science MuseumScience Educator
Required CredentialsDegree in natural sciences or related fieldDegree in education, science, or related field
Work EnvironmentMuseum exhibits, research areas, public displaysClassrooms, museums, outdoor programs
Employer & IndustryMuseums, research institutionsEducational institutions, museums, science centers

Natural Science Museum staff focus on managing exhibits, conducting research, and maintaining collections, while Science Educators primarily develop and deliver educational programs to visitors and students. Both roles require a background in science or education and often work within museum settings, but their core responsibilities differ in research versus teaching.

What job categories do people searching Natural Science Museum jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Natural Science Museum jobs in Michigan are:

Infographic showing various Natural Science Museum job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution.

Development Coordinator

Ann Arbor, MI

Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum
Museums and Historical Sites • 11 - 50 employees

$45K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

For over 35 years the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum and the Leslie Science & Nature Center have been creating moments of discovery that inspire curiosity, exploration and respect for STEAM and the natural world. Our Museum and Nature Center sites, outreach programs to school classrooms, and digital distance learning programs provide opportunities for people to explore the world around them.


We encourage our team members to be curious, foster innovation, visualize the big picture and take the lead when creating and implementing strategies for achieving our mission. As the Development Coordinator, you’ll advance our mission by maintaining accurate donor records, communicating with donors, managing grants, and supporting annual fund strategy and fundraising events.


This is a full-time, in-office position at our Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum and Leslie Science & Nature Center locations. Working occasional evenings and weekends will be required to support fundraising events. 


How you’ll contribute:

Data & Record Management

  • Process gifts, pledges, and acknowledgments with precision, ensuring accuracy and donor confidentiality.
  • Maintain timely and accurate donor records in the CRM (Versai), partnering closely with finance and development teams.
  • Support wealth screening and prospect identification using iWave.
  • Run reports, mailing lists, and queries for communications, appeals, and stewardship efforts.
  • Strengthen data integrity through ongoing contact updates, record maintenance, and donor segmentation.

Donor Communications

  • Draft, edit, and send donor acknowledgment letters, thank-you notes, and other stewardship communications.
  • Support production and distribution of mailings, newsletters, and digital campaign content.
  • Assist in creating impact stories, donor updates, and appeal materials.
  • Ensure communications uphold consistent voice, branding, and stewardship standards across all donor touchpoints.

Events, Annual Fund & Administrative Support

  • Provide logistical and on-site support for donor and member events—including PLAY, Flutter, donor receptions, and sponsored activities.
  • Track RSVPs, prepare name tags, and organize event materials to ensure seamless experiences.
  • Assist with sponsor fulfillment, recognition activities, and follow-up communications.
  • Assist with annual fund coordination and execution.
  • Support fundraising team with schedule coordination including donor meetings.

 Grant Management

  • Proactively research, identify and stay current on grant opportunities that align with our mission, strategic priorities and programs.
  • Maintain a comprehensive grant calendar, including application deadlines, reporting requirements, and key milestones. 
  • Track grant applications, awards, deadlines, deliverables, and reporting requirements to ensure timely submission and compliance.
  • Maintain streamlined communications with internal team members to ensure deadlines and other deliverables are achieved.

Advancing our Core Values

  • Champion Excellence
  • Embody the Learner
  • Facilitate Flexibility
  • Invite Optimism
  • Provide Opportunity
  • Think Globally
  • Inclusivity


Experience and qualifications you bring:

We acknowledge that people bring all of themselves to their work, and your perspective, talents and skills may come from a wide range of work and life experiences. Your qualifications may include paid work, volunteer work, projects in a different field, or other experiences that have helped you build the competencies and knowledge needed to be successful in this role. We welcome and encourage diverse perspectives combined with a spirit of collaboration and community. We excitedly anticipate your application.


  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • 1–3 years of experience in fundraising, nonprofit administration, grant management, customer relations, or event support.
  • Proficiency with donor databases or a comparable CRM preferred.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Graphic design skills (Canva or Adobe Creative Suite) are a plus.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities.
  • A collaborative, positive attitude and commitment to the mission of AAHOM + LSNC.

 

Compensation and Benefits

This is a full-time, exempt position that includes access to a comprehensive benefits package including medical and dental healthcare, paid vacation & sick days, 9 paid holidays, retirement plan, paid parking, EAP, membership discounts and more! The salary range is $45,000 - $55,000, commensurate with experience.


Application Process & Timeframe

Cover letters and resumes will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. The formal interview process will begin in August with an anticipated start date of mid-September 2026.