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Shedd Aquarium

Major Gifts Officer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Shedd Aquarium is seeking a full-time Major Gifts Officer to join its Development Department and play a critical role in advancing operational fundraising by more than 13% as we prepare to open brand ...

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What are some common challenges faced by Shedd Aquarium staff working in animal care roles?

Staff in animal care roles at Shedd Aquarium often face challenges such as maintaining rigorous standards for animal health and habitat cleanliness, adapting to rapidly changing situations with animal behavior, and collaborating closely with veterinarians and other specialists. The work can be physically demanding and requires strong attention to detail, as well as the ability to follow strict protocols. Teamwork and clear communication are essential, as staff must coordinate daily routines, enrichment activities, and emergency responses to ensure the well-being of all animals in their care.

What are Shedd?

Shedd is not a widely recognized job title in most professional contexts. If you are referring to 'Shedd' as a company, such as the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, then employees may be referred to as Shedd staff or associates. Otherwise, if you are referring to another context, more information may be needed to clarify the job role associated with the term 'Shedd.'

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

To thrive as an employee at Shedd Aquarium, you generally need a background in biology, zoology, environmental science, or a related field, often supported by relevant degrees or certifications. Familiarity with animal care systems, aquarium management software, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong teamwork, public communication, and problem-solving skills are crucial for engaging with visitors and supporting conservation initiatives. These competencies ensure the well-being of aquatic animals, effective educational outreach, and a positive experience for guests.
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Infographic showing various Shedd job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution.
Sr. Director, Membership & Giving Circles

Sr. Director, Membership & Giving Circles

Shedd Aquarium

Chicago, IL • On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Shedd Aquarium rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 33 rated wildlife parks and zoos

Job description

TITLE: Sr. Director, Membership & Giving Circles
DEPARTMENT: Development
REPORTS TO: Chief Development Officer
STATUS: Full-time, Exempt
SALARY: $130,000 - $140,000
LOCATION: Hybrid
POSITION OVERVIEW: The Senior Director of Membership and Giving Circles holds primary oversight for growing and sustaining Shedd's membership and donor circles to help transform the culture of philanthropy and advance donor revenue and participation from individual supporters up to $5k. This role leads with a data-driven approach for membership growth while creating more structure for giving circles, encouraging team members to innovate using their skills and experience, while focusing on successfully achieving or exceeding established metrics and goals. They also serve as members of Shedd's development leadership team, helping identify and advance shared goals for fundraising and other institutional priorities.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
  • Develop and implement strategies to achieve annual and long-term fundraising goals across direct response campaigns, giving society and philanthropic volunteer engagements, and one-on-one donor relationships.
  • Oversee membership and annual giving programs, enhancing donor engagement and retention.
  • Build strong data-informed member growth and retention strategies that mix benefit enhancement with strong stewardship and experiential principles; champion them across the organization to assure alignment and delivery on goals.
  • Cultivate, solicit, and steward a portfolio of 25-40 high-capacity donors and prospects.
  • Strengthen infrastructure and metrics to track performance, auditing, and adapting regularly to meet goals.
  • Develop, analyze, and adjust budgets for membership and giving circle programs.
  • Supervise, guide, and mentor a team of 3, including membership and giving circle fundraisers and support staff.
  • Provide training, guidance, and performance evaluations to ensure team success.
  • Foster a collaborative and motivating work environment aligned with Shedd's mission and values.
QUALIFICATIONS: The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
Education: Bachelor's degree in a related field; advanced degree preferred.
Experience:
  • 10+ years of progressive experience in development
  • Proven track record of managing successful fundraising programs to grow revenue and donor participation
  • Experience managing a multidisciplinary team in a nonprofit or cultural institution, including driving accountability.

Skills, Abilities & Attributes:
  • Exceptional leadership and strategic planning skills.
  • Commitment to transparency.
  • Ability to leverage fact-based reporting to drive decisions and recommendations.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
  • Specific knowledge of membership strategies and understanding of the drivers, levers, and best practices that drive performance.
  • Ability to cultivate relationships with major donors and community leaders.
  • Proficiency in fundraising software and CRM systems (Tessitura knowledge strongly preferred).
  • Knowledge of current trends in philanthropy and charitable giving.
  • Passion for Shedd Aquarium's mission and conservation efforts.
  • High level of integrity, professionalism, and commitment to excellence.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.

Work Environment:
  • Flexibility to attend evening and weekend events as required.
  • Ability to lift to 20 pounds, sit, stand, stoop, and walk.
  • Work environment may include exposure to water, heat, cold, and varying noise levels
BENEFITS OF WORKING AT SHEDD: We offer competitive compensation packages and opportunities for professional growth within our organization.
  • Medical Insurance, including FSA and HSA plan options
  • Vision and Dental Insurance
  • Accrued Paid Time Off
  • Up to 12 Paid Holidays
  • Life Insurance
  • Parental Leave and Adoption Assistance
  • 401(k)
  • Discounted Parking and Public Transit Subsidies
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Wellness program, including Preventive Care Incentive
  • Employee Discounts
  • Employee Tickets
Reasonable Accommodations:
Shedd Aquarium is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need reasonable accommodations for any part of the employment process, please email us at jobs@sheddaquarium.org.
We strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ community, veterans and active duty military, parents, individuals with disabilities, and individuals from all cultural backgrounds to apply. Shedd Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team.

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