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

The Field Museum is excited to invite applications for the position of Collections Assistant in our Amphibians & Reptiles (AR) Collections. The Field Museum’s collection of Amphibians & Reptiles includes over 300,000 fluid and dry specimens and over 21,000 cryogenic tissue samples. Our collection is widely utilized digitally, and through national and international inter-institutional loans and onsite visits.

The position reports to the Collections Manager and participates in various day-to-day aspects of the care and maintenance, curation, digitization, and accessibility of the collections.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist in the upkeep and day-to-day physical and operational aspects of the Amphibians & Reptiles lab and collection.
• Develop the skills and experience needed to assist with the day-to-day care, maintenance, curation, digitization, and accessibility of the collection.
• Gain experience in incorporating new materials into the collection, including preparation, accessioning, and cataloging.
• Develop the skills to efficiently and confidently use and curate the Museum's collection database.
• Assist in the development and evaluation of workflows and standards to ensure best practices for sustainable use and care of the collection.
• Participate in digitization efforts including transcription of label data, imaging specimens, georeferencing, and species inventory.
• Packing and shipping of outgoing and receiving incoming local, domestic and international loans.
• Participate in hosting and facilitating the onsite use of the collection by researchers and visitors.
• Assist with training, mentorship, and working with interns and volunteers in the collection when needed.
• Support for the Museum’s public programming and promoting the mission of the Museum and its fundraising goals.

Qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree in biological sciences or wildlife/environmental sciences required; zoology degree a plus.
• Experience in herpetology strongly preferred.
• At least one year experience with zoological collections a plus.

Desirable Qualities:

• Attention to detail.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Dynamic team member with clear, engaging, and thoughtful communication skills.
• Professional attitude to collaborate effectively with others, and capacity for problem solving.

Working Conditions: Must be able to lift up to 55 lbs. with assistance, climb stairs and ladders and stand for extended periods.

Working Hours: Full-time, onsite position of 35 hours/week.

Typical work week is Monday–Friday, 8:30-4:30.

Application Material: (double-spaced, 12-point font, one-inch margins):

1. A cover letter with statement of interest in herpetology and natural history collections (max 2 pages).
2. A Curriculum Vitae.
3. Contact information for two references who may be contacted.

Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit two reference letters (max 2 pages each)

Submit all materials in PDF format.

Application closing date: six weeks from posting date Review of complete applications will start immediately. Interviews anticipated for January 2025.

Desired start date: March 10, 2025.

The Field Museum is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination, embracing diversity, and fostering mutual respect. We value the unique perspectives each team member brings, which empowers our ability to innovate and overcome challenges.

At the Field Museum, we are dedicated to making our career website and recruitment process accessible to everyone. If you encounter any difficulty when using or accessing our online application, or if you need a reasonable accommodation for completing your application, participating in interviews, or any other part of the selection process, please reach out to us at accessibility@fieldmuseum.org.