Public Programs Facilitator

Our Mission: Since the 1893 World Columbian Exposition, our organization has aimed to connect people to the natural environment and human history.

The Public Programs Facilitator position is a temporary, part-time public-facing position within the Sue Ling Gin Center for Education and Public Programs of the Field Museum. There are two primary responsibilities of these term positions: First is leading public engagement programming within the temporary exhibit Cats: Predators to Pets. Second is supporting the operations of the Crown Family PlayLab, which is an interactive, family-friendly learning space geared for early childhood audiences (ages 2-6). This position is defined as term and will be active from approximately October 2024 - May 2025.

• There are 4 part-time positions available, each averaging 10-18 hours per week, within the range of 9:30am - 4:30pm. Multiple weekly schedules are available.
• Interviews will be held in October 2024. Candidates must be available for a general, in-person training schedule at the Field Museum during the weeks of November 18 and 25. Accommodations may be available. The Cats temporary exhibition opens to the public on November 29, 2024.

This position will primarily focus on independently leading educational programming and hands-on activities designed for the temporary exhibition Cats: Predators to Pets. This position will also regularly provide support to the Crown Family PlayLab by independently staffing the front desk, greeting guests, and assisting with the space operations. Opportunities to learn and support other Public Programs may become available.

Within the temporary exhibition, Cats will be examined through structured conversation and exploration of:

1. Diverse preserved animal specimens that illustrate how cat biology and behavior have led them to be some of the most successful families of animals living today.
2. The complex relationship cats have with humans, from being pets to making long-lasting impacts on our culture.

Facilitators will learn hands-on, interactive programs and activity stations to facilitate with visitors. Training will also include learning and accurately describing the exhibition sections and themes to museum visitors, and helping to direct visitors to specific exhibition areas that may help them explore their own questions further. Listening and responding to difficult or challenging questions and statements with sensitivity, respect, and care is required for this position.

Program Goals:

• Interact with visitors in an approachable, upbeat, and respectful manner.
• Guide visitors in conversation related to animal evolution and adaptation.
• Within Cats: Encourage critical thinking and curiosity surrounding cat survival, natural history, and cultural impact.
• Within the PlayLab: Provide a safe and welcoming environment by being the first point of contact for visitors.

This position requires active attention and consistent verbal communication in a fast-paced, high-attendance environment. Staff will utilize tablet computers to access and display media. Staff will occasionally push rolling carts, handle delicate objects, and handle real preserved animal specimens of various types. Staff will need to utilize a two-way radio to communicate with team members and other museum personnel. Training will be provided.

Moderate lifting and carrying of items up to 15 poun