Learning Intern

Job Description

We have an opening for a Learning Intern who will support the Learning department in work on interpretation projects for exhibitions and specialized programs for student and family audiences. The Learning Intern will deepen their understanding of museum education and its impact, while gaining skills in interpretive planning, project management, administration, museum pedagogy, studio art activities, and in-gallery teaching. To be successful in this role, you will:

Provide planning, administrative, and preparation support for interpretation projects. This includes:

Coordinating projects with other museum departments and external stakeholders such as artist’s studios, subject matter experts, and other institutions.

Support interpretation project meetings by building agendas, taking notes, and communicating action items.

Participate in development, production, and review of exhibition videos, audio features, and wall texts.

Provide planning, administrative, and preparation support for student field trips and monthly Family Days. This includes:

Preparation, gathering, and organizing of project materials and hospitality supplies.

Helping to welcome and orient students and families to programs and assisting them in engaging with projects and artworks.

Connecting and collaborating with other Chicago cultural organizations.

Review research on MCA exhibitions to aid in the design of Learning Programs and conduct research in areas related to museum learning.

Design and lead one learning project from start to finish, to be determined based on the intern’s particular area of interest. Potential projects include:

Design and host an interactive activity for families.

Facilitate a studio-making workshop for students on field trips.

Organize and produce an “Object Lesson” video.

Attend regular Learning department meetings and cross-departmental meetings pertinent to Learning programs.

Participate in departmental meetings and MCA staff events.

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Interest in contemporary art.

Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.

Ability to manage assignments with attention to detail and strong organization skills.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365.

Ability to perform occasional light lifting.

General mobility throughout the museum.

BENEFITS OF WORKING AT THE MCA INCLUDE:

Individual and MCA-provided retirement savings plans.

Paid time off.

Pre-tax, reduced rate parking and Ventra/Metra benefits.

Free admission to MCA exhibitions for yourself and guests.

Free admission to many special and member events.

Reduced price tickets to MCA Stage performances.

Discounts on dining in Marisol and in our award-winning MCA Store.

Access to our onsite library.

Opportunities to attend curator-led staff tours.

Free or discounted admission to many other cultural institutions across the United States.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

MCA Internships are geared towards current college students and recent grads (<1year) who are interested in contemporary art and have a passion for learning more about how museums work.

Candidates must be interested in exploring a potential career in the culture sector.

Interns must be able to work 24 hours per week onsite for the entirety of the internship period (August 18, 2025 through May 15, 2026).

Please detail your availability in your cover letter.

*THE DEADLINE TO APPLY IS FRIDAY JUNE 20, 2025.*

This is a part-time temporary position, with a schedule determined by the needs of the department that will include evening and weekend availability as required to fulfill responsibilities and for related museum activities. This position is not eligible for hybrid work arrangement per the Remote Work Policy.

Up to 24 hours per week.

Hybrid remote