JOBS, INTERNSHIPS, FELLOWSHIPS

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the world's preeminent scientific and cultural institutions. Since its founding in 1869, the Museum has advanced its global mission to discover, interpret and disseminate information about human cultures, the natural world and the universe through a wide-ranging program of scientific research, education and exhibition. The Museum is renowned for its exhibitions and scientific collections, which serve as a field guide to the entire planet and present a panorama of the world's cultures.

If interested in any positions listed below, please send résumé, cover letter and salary requirements specifying vacancy to:

The American Museum of Natural History does not solicit or accept applications or résumés unless it is for a specific job listed on this website. The American Museum of Natural History is an Equal Opportunity/ Affirmative Action Employer. The Museum encourages Women, Minorities, Persons with Disabilities, Vietnam Era and Disabled Veterans to apply. The Museum does not discriminate due to age, sex, religion, race, color, national origin, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other factor prohibited by law.

If special accommodations are needed in applying for a position, please call the Office of Human Resources.

Please be advised that due to the high volume of applicants, we are only able to contact those candidates whose skills and background best fit the needs of the open positions.

JOBS

INTERNSHIPS & FELLOWSHIPS

Administrative Assistant, Operational Planning
The Administrative Assistant is responsible for ensuring a high level of functionality between team members and other personnel in the Museum's administration. This includes time management and administrative support for the Senior Director, screening requests, setting priorities, and assuring that needed materials are available to the Senior Director to meet assignments and responsibilities. It also includes providing administrative and special project support to all members of the Operational Planning and Services team and to other Operations staff, as requested. Duties and responsibilities include; Maintaining calendar — schedule appointments and meetings, reserving and preparing meeting space; Maintaining office budget and procurement system, spreadsheets; produce monthly updates, maintain electronic requisitioning system General office maintenance and administrative duties — maintain functioning office environment and open lines of communication; compose letters on behalf of department team members, as requested; maintain the front desk area; answer main telephone lines Special projects are requested; Undergraduate degree or a minimum two (2) years experience in a similar administrative role supporting a multi-faceted department. Strong analytical and organizational skills; an easy-going, good-humored and level headed nature is a must for success in the position.

> Back to Top

Assistant/Associate Director, Institutional Advancement
The American Museum of Natural History is seeking an Assistant/Associate Director to join its Government and Foundation Support department within the division of Institutional Advancement. The department seeks to maximize the Museum’s relationships with and funding from federal, state, and city government agencies and private foundations. The position entails: developing and writing proposals to government and private sources; working collaboratively with department staff, Museum educators and scientists to secure new and continued support; and contributing to related projects and initiatives. The Assistant/Associate Director position focuses on government funding but also works with foundations in developing integrated strategies that leverage public and private support for Museum programs. The Assistant/Associate Director responsibilities include: Writing government and foundation proposals, reports, backgrounders, testimony and other materials; Leading or serving as key member of proposal teams, writing drafts and preparing final documents for submission; Creating annual submission plan; Disseminating funding information; Helping Museum education and scientific staff to identify sources and develop proposals; Researching and reporting on trends and news; Maintaining agency liaison; Carrying out special projects and related assignments. The ideal candidate must possess: Baccalaureate degree required, advanced degree strongly preferred; Minimum 5 years relevant experience in nonprofit educational, cultural, research or higher education institution; Demonstrated record of success in proposal writing, particularly to federal science and education agencies; Exceptional writing and editing skills; Excellent analytical, conceptualization, organizational and interpersonal skills; Ability to interpret budgets. Ability to understand and express scientific and science education content and concepts a big plus; Ability to work collaboratively in team environment, often under deadline and rapid turn around pressure; Fast learner able to orient quickly to diverse education and science subjects; The position will be filled at the Assistant or Associate Director level, depending on qualifications and experience.

> Back to Top

Assistant Director, Grants & Sciences
Primary responsibility is the strategic budgeting of Federal Grants and management of all Science Division budgets according to the expected timing of expenditures. The individual will liaison with colleagues in the divisions of Science, Education, Finance, Accounting, Human Resources, Payroll, Government Relations and IT on all aspects of Federal grant budgeting as well as restricted and unrestricted budget management. Ongoing duties include: working with individual PI’s to create annual grant budgets and budgets for new Federal awards, development of annual operating budgets, monitor monthly progress of actual vs. budgeted expenditures, diagnose and recommend improvements to current systems, and work with other departments to ensure accuracy of reporting and management of ongoing change. The ideal candidate must possess the ability to work independently and as part of a team. Requires specific expertise in Federal Grant management including pre- and post-award processes and experience in project budgeting and management. Advanced Excel skills required and knowledge of Oracle accounting/ database system recommended. Excellent verbal, interpersonal and communication skills, detail oriented with ability to multi-task. Bachelors’ degree in Finance/Accounting and 3-5 years experience in Federal Grants Management required.

> Back to Top

Assistant to Director, Center for Biodiversity & Conservations
The Assistant to the Director will provide administrative and budgetary support for the CBC Director and other CBC staff as needed, and to supervise and manage the research initiatives of CBC interns and volunteers. Manage the Director’s calendar, travel schedule, correspondence, administrative paperwork, and general communications; Facilitate the planning and preparation of bi-annual Advisory Council meetings; Supervise CBC research interns and volunteers by directing on-line and library searches for materials associated with CBC projects and by reviewing and editing as needed written documents prepared by the interns and volunteers before submission to CBC staff; Qualifications: BA or BA with business or management focus; Three (3) years office experience, knowledge of academic or not-for-profit institutions. Knowledge of conservation biology a plus; Project administration, office management and budget management experience; High proficiency in Excel including pivot tables, database software (Filemaker and Endnote), and budget management. Experience with Mac.

> Back to Top

Assistant to VP, Communications
The Assistant to the Vice President will support the Vice President of Communications and Marketing. The responsibilities of the position include but are not limited to coordinating VPs’ calendars; scheduling meetings, arranging logistics; making and confirming reservations; performing administrative functions such as copying, faxing, answering phones, typing and editing correspondence, updating computer files and filing; will work on department projects such as exhibition press previews, and other special assignments as required. Bachelor’s Degree is strongly preferred; previous administrative experience supporting a top-level executive in addition to a communications, public relations or marketing background is a huge plus. Must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills; demonstrated poise and professionalism; ability to work independently and diligently; ability to juggle multiple task simultaneously. Proficiency with the Microsoft Office suite, MeetingMaker and database software experience is desirable.

> Back to Top

Associate Traveling Exhibitions Registrar

The Associate Traveling Exhibitions Registrar will manage registrarial aspects of temporary exhibitions at AMNH and traveling exhibitions managed by AMNH that travel to other venues. Review facility reports, insurance policies and loan agreements for traveling exhibitions Process loans for exhibitions including negotiate/issue loan agreements, distribution of venue facility report(s), provide insurance information to potential lenders, and coordinate insurance coverage. Liaise with registrarial counterparts at other institutions; Coordinate/arrange the receipt and dispatch of AMNH collections and outside loans including maintaining object lists and database, tracking budgets for object-related exhibition costs, facilitating customs, packing, crating, shipping, coordinating couriered shipments including flight itineraries, hotel accommodation, per diem and installation/ de-installation of loans. Issue receipts.

• Installation of exhibitions at AMNH and other venues as required by traveling exhibition schedule, including unpacking/re-packing, condition reporting, and supervising installation/de-installations.
• Complete/write condition reports for outside loans and AMNH collections on loan to traveling exhibitions
• Traveling Exhibitions Registrar will delegate projects and administrative tasks to the Assistant Traveling Exhibitions Registrar and graduate student interns.

Qualifications:
B.A. with concentration in museum studies is highly recommended; at least two years experience with museum collections handling and major traveling exhibitions is required. Experience in collections and records management including object handling, packing, display, conservation issues, knowledge of legal issues, etc; excellent interpersonal skills; ability to juggle multiple complex projects at once, flexible personality, while formal specialist training is preferable

> Back to Top

Chief Engineer, Facilities Operations
AMNH seeks a Chief Engineer, who under general supervision, manages and coordinates all electrical and mechanical functions. The Chief Engineer will have responsibility to supervise the current supervisors of electricians, elevator mechanics, HVAC and general mechanics. S/he will also be responsible for overseeing maintenance and operation of the physical plant; prioritize and plan mechanical projects and programs. Responsible for the operation of all building systems; including heating and cooling, plumbing, elevators, electrical, fire protection/life safety and computerized building management system (BMS). Conversant in sustainable practices related to facilities operations. Responsible for maintenance, repairs and upgrades to physical plant; including supervision of maintenance contracts, code compliance. Acts as the museum’s quality control advocate with regards to new projects and upgrades to the museums facilities; interfaces with capital construction project management in the improvement of all museum facilities. The ideal candidate must possess the following qualifications: Minimum of eight (8) years of progressive experience in the full time supervision of large physical plants; preferably in similar institutions; Bachelor’s Degree in engineering discipline; Personnel management experience a must; Fluency with financial spreadsheets; Experience with CAD systems

> Back to Top

Development Associate of Administration
An Entry-level position is currently available in the fundraising office at the American Museum of Natural History. The Development Associate of Administration will be responsible for a number of tasks, including but not limited to: data and gift entry, gift processing, assisting the Director of Administration, and various administrative duties and special projects. This position provides an outstanding opportunity for an individual wishing to embark on a career in Development. Requirements: Bachelor’s degree; excellent organizational, writing, and communication skills; accuracy and attention to detail, strong interpersonal skills; flexibility; fluency in Microsoft Office, in particular Excel and Power Point; database experience and knowledge of Raiser’s Edge is a plus.

> Back to Top

Director of Operational Planning & Services
The Museum seeks a highly organized, self-motivated, experienced and analytical person to serve as the Director of Operational Planning & Services. Reporting to the Vice President of Operations and Capital Programs, the Director will be responsible for, but not limited to, overseeing: operational planning; capital planning and budgeting; and one or more direct service delivery departments. Duties include: Management of the Museum's capital plan and budget; preparation of proposed capital plans and presentations for executive and Trustee approval; Government capital contract development, compliance and reimbursement; Expense budget management analysis, productivity reviews, operational analysis and special projects for the Operations and Capital Programs division; Disaster recovery and business continuity program management; mail and shipping services: Qualifications: Prior capital budget and planning experience, and experience on City-funded projects, strongly preferred; Experience in cultural institution or other not-for-profit expense budget management analysis preferred; A minimum of 8-10 years experience in successively responsible positions that include government and/ not-for-profit work, preferably in cultural institution(s), as well as staff supervisory responsibility; Bachelor's Degree or equivalent required; graduate degree strongly preferred. Other Qualities Sought: Top-notch analytical and communication skills; Team player and problem solver; Can represent the VP within the Museum and with government funding agencies; Can handle highly visible institutional projects in fast-paced environment; Able to produce recommendations to aid Museum decision-making at the top levels of the institution.

> Back to Top

Exhibition Installation Coordinator (Traveling Programs)
The American Museum of Natural History seeks an Exhibition Installation Coordinator who will supervise exhibition installation, de-installation and repair work at other museum sites for traveling exhibitions. Responsibilities include managing installation teams, managing relationships with operating/exhibitions personnel at peer institutions, hands-on assembly of exhibitry, trouble shooting installations and handling and installing artifacts. Must be a people person, have practical knowledge of construction and repair work, experience managing a team, good communication skills, and ability to problem solve. Position will travel domestically and internationally, spending at least 50% of the time on the road.

Responsibilities

• Supervise installation, de-installation and repair work at other museum sites for AMNH traveling exhibitions (exhibitry, AV work, security, object installation, etc.) Involves managing installation teams of 2-8 depending on project/venue.
• Manage relationships with operating/exhibitions personnel at other museums and help them prepare for exhibit install, exhibition maintenance, and exhibition deinstall (ie answer questions on gallery needs, installation guides, staffing requirements, education/marketing materials, public programs, etc.)
• Manage/plan shipping and crating of exhibitions and installation team travel
• Provide hands-on assembly support and trouble-shooting of exhibit installations when needed including handling artifacts under the supervision of a registrar.

Qualifications:

• Experience managing and motivating diverse work teams
• Practical knowledge of constructing furniture and other exhibitry and repair work; good hands-on construction and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong organizational skills, ability to multitask and keep to timelines
• Good communication skills; comfortable interacting one-on-one with wide range of people
• Able to problem-solve and to be a team player.
• Willing to travel on a frequent basis.
• Understanding of audio/visual equipment and security equipment/issues helpful
• Experience with art/object handling helpful
• Computer literate, with proficiency in office (Word, Excel) and design (CS) programs

> Back to Top

Exhibition Maintenance Manager
This position is responsible for the maintenance, cleaning, up-keep, and repairs of all of the public exhibits in the Museum, including cleaning and repairs of objects and specimens on display. This is a hands-on position, but also includes responsibility for managing freelance staff, contractors, and vendors as necessary. This position is necessary for the safe-guarding of specimens as well as for helping to deliver positive experiences to the Museum’s visitors and for protecting the Museum’s investment in its exhibits.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Cleaning exhibit elements, objects, and specimens
• Repairing exhibit elements damaged due to materials or hardware failure, rough use by visitors, or wear and tear.
• Ordering replacement parts and materials, coordinating vendors and contractors, maintaining maintenance logs.
• Coordinating additional repairs with museum staff
• Routine maintenance, parts and supplies replacement for exhibits

Qualifications:
HS Diploma although undergraduate degree strongly preferred; Experience working with wood, metal, and plastics. Constructing and repairing exhibit elements; handling delicate and valuable objects. This position is physically demanding and entails long periods of walking and standing as well as climbing and working on ladders and lifts and using manual and power tools.

> Back to Top

New Media Specialist
The New Media Specialist will create smart digital content using terrific reporting, writing, multimedia, editing and production skills. The New Media Specialist will also play a key role in the ongoing development of amnh.org, related micro-sites, e-mail campaigns and other digital media efforts.

Responsibilities

• Create original video content for amnh.org and other digital platforms
• Produce, edit and manage all Museum podcasts
• Develop leads and pitch story ideas
• Assist in the process of drafting, requesting approval, editing, and publishing online copy using the Percussion CMS
• Guide and help content creators across the Museum do the same
• Assist in maintaining editorial calendar

Skills

• Ability to pitch, research, interview and write stories in a variety of formats, styles and voices including science and general interest reporting, blogs, and promotional material.
• Comfortable with communicating complex scientific concepts effectively to the general public, as well as an academic audience.
• Strong writing, editing and proofreading skills, including an understanding of digital content best practices.
• Proficiency with all digital production tools including Wordpress, Dreamweaver, Photoshop, Flash, Final Cut Pro, GarageBand or Podcast Producer.
• Experience with transferring raw video/audio from camera to computer and performing all off-line editing and post-production tasks to create finished content packages for web and other digital distribution mediums.
• Ability to independently set up and shoot video/audio for b-roll and interviews.
• On-camera presentation, hosting and interview skills.
• May work with producer and/or sound recordist on more complex shoots, but should be capable of operating independently in the field.
• Excellent ability to multitask, plan and meet deadlines under time constraints, and work independently and collaboratively.

> Back to Top

PT Membership Assistants
Sales and customer service experience; familiarity with computer software; excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

The Membership Assistants are responsible for ensuring customer satisfaction by speaking with customers; answering and directing inquiries as needed; efficiently managing all operational functions including receiving/back room, inventory, merchandising and store maintenance; additional duties as assigned. Previous experience in a busy retail area strongly preferred. Demonstrated excellent customer service skills and phone manner as well as a clear speaking voice required. Must be reliable, an energetic team player, and demonstrate the ability to thrive in a dynamic and busy work environment. Great place for someone looking for career growth. Must be willing to work weekends and holidays.

> Back to Top

PT Visitor Service Representatives
The Visitor Services Representatives are required to provide high quality and friendly service to visitors of the Museum to ensure a pleasant experience. Requirements include, but are not limited to: Greeting visitors in a friendly manner, processing all transactions quickly and effectively. Prior sales, customer service and experience working with the public preferred. Familiarity with computer software helpful. Demonstrated excellent communication and interpersonal skills required. Prior handling cash and cash register equipment strongly preferred.

> Back to Top

Public Programs Associate, Education
This position assists with operations and programming of the Margaret Mead Film & Video Festival, while also helping to implement the full calendar of public programs. (S)he also manages 3-5 interns each term and serves as direct Public Programs liaison with the Communications/Marketing/Digital Division. Specific tasks include, but are not limited to: Assist with all film festival operations; Participate in all festival programming and panel discussion design; Coordinate development of community-programming partners; Assist in cultural and science programming for adult and family audiences; Coordinate program logistics and manage event details; Prepare contracts and assist with budget tracking; Collaborate with internal Museum divisions on Web, Marketing, and Media Relations efforts; Oversee data collection and analysis from program surveys; Manage hiring, training, and overseeing interns; This position sits within the Public Programs division of the Education Department, and reports to the Associate Director of Public Programs. Qualifications: knowledge and/or passion for international documentary film and new media; Knowledge and/or passion for public events featuring science and culture; Interested in all aspects of public programming, from adult lectures to family workshops to non-festival film screenings; At least 2 years experience working with film festivals or public programs and events; Excellent written and oral communication skills; Highly organized and detail oriented; Team player who can juggle multiple projects and work well under tight deadlines; Ability to work some nights/weekends a must; Proficiency in using MS Excel, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop, and FileMaker Pro

> Back to Top

Science Educator/Teacher
The Science and Nature Program in the American Museum of Natural History educates children aged 2 to 12 and their parents and teachers about life sciences, paleontology, astronomy, and anthropology. The Science Teacher role is significant and requires teaching and co-teaching parent-child science classes during the day and after school.

Duties include: Supporting the Director in all aspects of maintaining this innovative Program. Plan, develop, and document curricula as well as supervise program assistants, interns, and volunteers. Documentation and assessment is an ongoing part of the program. Full-time/Part-time Afterschool positions available starting August, 2010.

Qualifications:
Teaching experience with young children in educational settings and/or museums is required. A Master's degree in Science and/or Early Childhood Education is required. Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Photoshop required. Must have an interest in children, science, live animals, and museums. A sense of humor and flexibility is necessary. Fluency in Spanish and other languages is a plus.

> Back to Top

Science & Nature Program Assistant
The Science and Nature Program educates children aged 2 to 10 and their parents and teachers about life sciences, paleontology, astronomy, and anthropology. The Science and Nature Program classes aim to enhance children's understanding of and respect for the natural world, and to help them develop initial skills of scientific inquiry. Based on the premise that children attain deeper and more sustained learning when significant adults in their lives are engaged in the process, the classes in the core Program require that each child be accompanied in class by a parent or grandparent or other relative. The SNP also offers classes designed for the children of working parents. Each child attends class with his or her non- parental caregiver. Our two classrooms offer stimulating environments for early childhood science. They serve as "base camps" for in-depth studies, lessons, and projects, enhanced by "safaris" to relevant Museum halls

The Program Assistant supports SNP educators in the teaching of science and nature during the school day and after school. Duties include:

• Work with staff to plan activities, set up for classes, gather teaching specimens and equipment, and maintain model classroom environment
• Assist in the maintenance of over 40 live animals in their habitats
• Contribute to the development and documentation of curriculum
• Assist with teacher training and other Program outreach projects
• Support the Director and staff in all administrative aspects of maintaining the Program

Teaching experience with young children in educational settings and/or museums is required. A Master’s degree (or someone working towards a Master's) is preferred. Must be computer literate (especially in Word and Excel), flexible, creative, and enjoy working as a member of an enthusiastic team of professionals. While a formal background in science is not required, the candidate should show an interest in science and in the specific challenges of teaching science to very young children. Sense of humor a plus. The position offers excellent potential for growth within the Program, depending on the candidate's experience, interests, and level of initiative.

> Back to Top

Scientific Assistant, Earth & Planetary Sciences
The Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences seeks an individual to assist in the maintenance of and research on the petrology collections, which consist mainly of mafic and ultramafic rocks. Applicants must have a minimum of a BA (preferably an MS) degree in geology and interest in and knowledge of igneous petrology and geochemistry.

Qualifications:
Applicants must have a minimum of a BA (preferably an MS) degree in geology and interest in and knowledge of igneous petrology and geochemistry. Experience with the electron microprobe and/or SEM desirable.

> Back to Top

Web Application Developer
The Web Application Developer is integral to the development and production of all ongoing Digital AMNH work. The candidate will participate and play a key role in all aspects of the website and the scientific database development process. Create conceptual wireframes and compositions; Develop dynamic applications from the ground up, PHP Scripting for data collection and interactive components. Strong Multitasking and interpersonal skills required to properly plan and manage multiple concurrent projects and interface with AMNH stakeholders. Strong ability to accept and carry out related tasks and duties, as requested by management.

Specific Responsibilities

• Develop web applications using PHP/MySQL
• Work with tech lead to architect and plan projects and databases.
• Develop web pages using HTML, CSS, Javascript, AJAX
• Manage Webtrends tracking system.
• Maintain current systems including content management systems, Subversion repository and other applications as needed.

Requirements:

• Bachelors in Computer Science or equivalent years of experience.
• 3-5 years of LAMP development.
• Object oriented programming experience.
• Ability to accurate estimate design and development timelines.
• 3+ years of experience with front-end development (HTML,CSS,Javascript)
• 3+ years experience using an established content management system such as Drupal, Wordpress, and/or Percussion Rhythmyx is a plus.
• 3+ years of database design and administration. MYSQL strongly preferred.
• Experience with source control systems, Subversion specifically.
• Experience working with and managing relationships with 3rd party vendors.
• Familiarity with Java.
• Familiarity with web services technology.

Pluses

• Experience with HTML5
• Knowledge of frameworks like PEAR, Zend, jQuery

Please include resume, cover letter, and link to portfolio website.

> Back to Top

Web Developer/Designer
The Web Developer/Designer is responsible for the design and production of interactive projects, websites and presentations for a large number of digital properties at AMNH. Previous experience as a professional Web Designer/Developer is desired. Strong ability to accept and carry out other related tasks and duties, as requested by management.

Job Responsibilities

• Develop web pages using HTML, HTML5, CSS, Javascript, AJAX, PHP technologies.
• Work with tech leads to assist in project planning and documentation.
• Work with AMNH and external stakeholders to scope and define requirements for web projects.
• Create wireframes, sitemaps and design guides.
• Design site elements such as photo mockups, illustrations, newsletters and interfaces, and standalone web graphics.

Requirements:

• Bachelors in Computer Science or Graphic Design or equivalent years of experience or certifications.
• Strong working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite.
• Strong initiative to stay ahead of the curve on new web development technologies and techniques.
• Experience working with content management systems like Drupal and Wordpress
• Experience developing and designing web based interactive projects.
• Experience with common JS frameworks such as JQuery.
• Familiarity with website usage analytics such as Webtrends
• Experience with XML and RSS syndication.
• Familiarity with Android and iPhone operating systems and mobile compatible website best practices.
• Strong communication skills and willingness to collaborate on projects with multiple stakeholders.
• Ability to accurate estimate design and development timelines.
• Experience working with and managing relationships with 3rd party vendors.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to multitask and handle multiple projects is desired.

Pluses

• Experience with Percussion/Rhythm-X CMS systems.
• Familiarity with web server management
• Familiarity developing and maintaining Flash interactive.
• Experience with HTML5 and PHP.
• Knowledge of H.264 and other video streaming codecs.
• Experience designing/developing iPhone Applications.
• Ability to create motion graphics and animation for video.
• Designing and administering SQL databases.

Please include resume, cover letter, and link to portfolio website.

> Back to Top

Last updated: August 13, 2010.