Position: Pollinator Conservation Coordinator

FLSA Status: Non-exempt

Department: Keller Science Action Center, Field Museum

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


The Pollinator Conservation Coordinator helps advance community-driven conservation for urban pollinators across the Chicago region. This position bridges museum science and on-the-ground action by working directly with community members, partners, and Field Museum scientists to study how urban green spaces support both pollinator habitat and community well-being.

The coordinator will help implement a new community science monitoring program, collect ecological data in urban gardens and natural areas, and contribute to research that informs real conservation decisions. This role is ideal for an emerging scientist interested in applied conservation, urban ecology, and collaborative research that connects science with communities.

This position reports to the Senior Conservation Ecologist and works closely with members of the Monarch and Pollinator team.

Position Details

• Part-time seasonal position (28 hours/week; ~7 hours/day, 4 days/week)
• 16-week appointment
• Work includes field research, community engagement, data analysis, and museum-based collaboration
• At a combination of field sites across the Chicago region and time at the Field Museum

Key Responsibilities

• Field Research & Data Collection
• Implement and deploy a community science monitoring protocol for urban pollinators
• Conduct field surveys in urban gardens, green spaces, and restoration sites
• Collect ecological data using standardized methods, including field cameras and habitat assessments
• Maintain accurate field records and ensure data quality

Community Science & Engagement

• Train and support community members participating in pollinator monitoring
• Help translate scientific methods into accessible, hands-on learning experiences
• Represent the project during community events and presentations

Data Analysis & Research Support

• Conduct data organization, analysis, and quality control
• Contribute to annual literature reviews and synthesis products
• Support interpretation of findings to inform development of future community science projects

Required Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated (within 6 months) from a Master’s or Ph.D. program in biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related field
• Experience conducting independent field research
• Familiarity with ecological research methods and data collection protocols
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Excellent communication skills and interest in collaborative, community-centered science
• Access to a vehicle and willingness to travel to regional field sites

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of Chicago-region ecosystems or Great Lakes ecology
• Interest in interdisciplinary conservation linking ecological and social science
• Experience working with volunteers or community participants
• Plant and/or pollinator identification skills

Equity Commitment
The Keller Science Action Center is committed to a workforce that is diverse and inclusive and the Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Field Museum strives to create a working environment that is free of harassment, discrimination, and retaliation, and that promotes human dignity among all staff. Realizing that good relations between co-workers are an integral part of job satisfaction, the Field Museum strives to create a climate of mutual respect among all employees.

Supervision Received:

Receives general supervision by Lead Conservation Ecologist, Keller Science Action Center

Supervision Exercised:

The position has no direct supervisory responsibilities

Work Hours and Shift:

28 hours/week; 7 hours/day, 4 days/week

Hybrid Eligibility:

Not eligible

Location:

1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr. Chicago, IL 60605

Union Representation: This position is represented by Field Museum Workers’ United, AFSCME Council 31, AFL-CIO.

Pay Range: $21.00/Hourly

PLEASE READ: *When you apply for multiple positions, please make sure to delete your previous resume and cover letter and upload the latest version of your resume and cover letter that is relevant to the job you are applying for, every time you apply. This will help our hiring managers access the correct documents. Please note that removing the resume and cover letter will not delete any previously submitted resumes and cover letters.

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 recruitment@fieldmuseum.org.