Exhibitions Project Lead, Place-Based Activations

Chicago Architecture Foundation; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health & wellness

401(k) match

Paid holidays

Hybrid schedule

Professional development

Job summary

The Chicago Architecture Center (CAC) seeks an Exhibitions Project Specialist to coordinate site activations and exhibitions across partner communities. You will manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects from concept to completion, supporting interpretive content and collaboration with CAC teams.

This role focuses on off-site exhibits, festivals, and place-based activation, requiring strong organizational skills, timely communications, and adherence to grant requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in museum studies, architecture, interior design, urban planning or a related field.
• 3–5 years coordinating complex projects, preferably in exhibitions, cultural programs, design or community-based work.
• Knowledge of architectural history, urban planning, design, historic preservation/cultural heritage conservation.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate planning and implementation of place-based activation projects tied to grant funding.
• Track project timelines, tasks, and budgets using a project management platform.
• Prepare agendas, document meetings, distribute notes, and follow up on actions.
• Monitor KPIs and grant-related payments; support multiple exhibition projects concurrently.
• Collaborate with Learning, Public Programs, Marketing, Facilities and center staff; coordinate with external vendors/partners.
• Contribute to exhibition content, labeling, and interpretation; assist with design, fabrication, lighting, graphics, and installation.

Skills

Project coordination

Stakeholder management

Exhibitions coordination

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor’s degree in museum studies

Bachelor’s degree in architecture or urban planning

Tools

Microsoft Office

Project management platform

Job description

The Chicago Architecture Center (CAC) seeks an Exhibitions Project Specialist to coordinate site activations and exhibitions across partner communities. You will manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects from concept to completion, supporting interpretive content and collaboration with CAC teams.

This role focuses on off-site exhibits, festivals, and place-based activation, requiring strong organizational skills, timely communications, and adherence to grant requirements.