Team picture for the American Writers Staff.

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The American Writers Museum (AWM) is a national museum located in downtown Chicago, dedicated to celebrating American writers and their enduring relevance. The museum fulfills its mission by presenting exhibits and programs for youth and adults that honor the past, promote the present and inspire the future of American writing.

Benefits

The American Writers Museum is proud to offer a comprehensive, flexible, and competitive benefits program for our employees. Full time employees are eligible for medical, dental, vision, and paid time off benefits. Full time employees are also eligible for a robust IRA retirement saving plan with employer match.

All employees receive discounts in our store and free admission to the Museum including programs.

The American Writers Museum is an equal opportunity employer and considers all candidates for employment regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, creed, disability, marital status, sexual orientation or political affiliation. The search process for open positions will reinforce the AWM belief that achieving diversity requires an enduring commitment to inclusion that must find full expression in our organizational culture, values, norms, and behaviors.

Current Opportunities:

Institutional Giving Manager

December, 2024

Position Overview

The Institutional Giving Manager is an integral member of the development team who manages the AWM’s growing portfolio of corporate, foundation, and government (CFG) funding partners. As the primary grant writer for the organization, the Institutional Giving Manager plays an important role in reaching annual fundraising goals by prospecting, cultivating, soliciting and stewarding current and potential CFG partners. The Institutional Giving Manager works closely with the Development team including the Director of Development, the Assistant Director of Development, the Community Engagement Manager, and the President, as well as the Board of Trustees.

Responsibilities

Identification of New Prospects

Conduct research and collaborate with AWM staff and Trustees to identify and qualify potential new CFG partners for both financial support and Board representation
Research CFG prospects’ giving history and interests to determine a strong fit with AWM programs
Create profiles and track activity with new CFG partners to inform longer-term strategies
Manage pipeline of CFG donors

Strengthen Relationships with Existing CFG Partners

Manage a growing portfolio of 20 – 30 CFG funders
Strengthen relationships with CFG funders through individualized strategies for communication and involvement with the AWM
Work with the Director of Development and the President to schedule visits with CFG partners with senior staff and Trustees
Participate in in-person special events for donors and prospects

Grant Writing, Reporting, and Administration

Write proposals, letters of intent, budgets, reports, briefings, and other correspondence for CFG donors
Create engaging proposals for sponsorship of special exhibits and programs, working with a graphic designer
Oversee reporting and pledge payment schedules for grants
Develop and manage a calendar and schedule for prospecting, proposals, reports and stewardship activities

Qualifications

Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the qualifications as described in a job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the position, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and qualifications for this role.

Bachelor’s degree and 3-5 years of progressive fundraising experience
Experience in cultivating and soliciting CFG funders, including sponsorships and special events
Knowledge of Chicago’s philanthropic community
Excellent writing and editing skills
Organizational and research skills
Interpersonal skills
Good judgment and discretion
Computer proficiency, including G Suite and MS Office.
Accuracy and attention to detail and follow through
Ability to excel in a collaborative team setting, be flexible, and manage multiple projects

Hours and Compensation

This is a full-time position. Hours are 9:00 – 5:00 M-F, with evening and weekend hours required for certain museum events. Annual salary: $55,000- 60,000. Health benefits and retirement plan are available with this position.

Work Location

We are currently working in a hybrid model with two to three days at our office at 180 North Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago, with the other days worked remotely.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion

Please send cover letter and resume to hr@americanwritersmuseum.org.

No phone calls.

Open Position:

Storyteller (Front Desk Staff)

We are seeking a friendly and energetic Storyteller, which is the title of our front desk staff, to join our team. The Storyteller is responsible for providing exceptional service to our visitors which include general admissions, school groups, and special event groups. Ensures the upkeep and maintenance of museum exhibits.

Available to work approximately one to three shifts per week, including weekend shift(s). Flexibility to take on extra shifts when available, including weekends, holidays and evening events.

Job responsibilities

Provide excellent face-to-face customer service for our visitors.

Process ticket sales, check-in all student/group tours using the museum’s POS software.

Assist with museum gift shop sales, maintenance, and inventory.

Complete hourly rounds on the museum floor for security checks, exhibit maintenance, cleaning, and disinfecting of interactives.

Assist with special events setup/cleanup, admissions, and guest services.

Provide specialized guided tours for groups and field trips.

Create and facilitate program activities for visitors including Children’s Storytime.

The Storyteller position is part-time. Starting rate $18/hour.

Education and/or Experience:

High school diploma, or equivalent, required; college degree preferred
A minimum of 1-3 years of relevant work experience desired

The American Writers Museum is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The search process will reinforce the AWM belief that achieving diversity requires an enduring commitment to inclusion that must find full expression in our organizational culture, values, norms, and behaviors.

NO PHONE INQUIRIES PLEASE – email resumés to hr@americanwritersmuseum.org

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Volunteer

Support the American Writers Museum by joining our Storyteller Volunteer Program. AWM Storytellers can assist in interacting with guests and assisting with programs on the gallery floor. Help is also needed for our special events.

Learn more and apply to become a Volunteer Storyteller