Program and Education Assistant

Foundation Summary

The Robert R. McCormick Foundation, with annual grants of more than $75 million, seeks to improve economic opportunities and quality of life for the residents of Chicagoland. We invest in organizations serving families in neighborhoods on Chicago's South and West Sides to help them advance their own success. With partners, like United Way, we target investments in Englewood, Little Village, and eight other communities with a focus on kids, jobs, and other key priorities those

neighborhoods have set.

The Foundation also makes grants to leading public serving organizations, including ones based on Colonel McCormick's long-standing commitments to journalism, civic responsibility, and the military community. The Foundation operates Cantigny, Colonel McCormick’s 500-acre estate in Wheaton, IL. Over 450,000 people visit Cantigny annually to enjoy its exceptional gardens, the historic McCormick House, the First Division military museum, and Cantigny Golf, a 27-hole highly rated public course.

Position Summary

Cantigny is seeking an enthusiastic and engaging Program and Education Assistant to support its education and public programming. This position works with school field trips (4th grade through high school) focused on U.S. military history, as well as scout programs (1st–8th grade), family programs, and large special events throughout the year. The ideal candidate is passionate about education, enjoys working with diverse audiences, and thrives in a dynamic, interactive environment. The role also involves teaching cultural and craft-based activities, fostering creativity and engagement for diverse audiences. This is a part-time position (approximately 20 hours/week). The position is on-site and includes weekends, evenings, and holidays.

Essential Functions

• Facilitate educational programming, including tours, field trips, in-classroom programming, Scout badge programs, drop-in programs, scholarly programs, and other special events
• Assist the Educators with the ongoing evaluation and revision of programs, materials, and supplies
• Assist with the setup, running, and break down for any public or education events
• Collaborate with other departments on special events or other initiatives
• Assist with the maintenance and accession of artifacts for the education collection
• Maintain, replace, and update education resource materials, including history trunks.
• Proactively engage visitors and initiate conversations to provide an exceptional visitor experience
• Provides personal safety in the workplace by attending and completing all required safety training, following existing safety rules, and reporting any unsafe conditions to supervisor.
• Other duties as assigned