Full-Time/Part-time Positions

If you are interested in becoming a part of our team, complete the application form below. Applicants may drop off their application at either the box office location or email the completed application to apply@rivermuseum.org.

employment application

Banquets & Events Manager (Full-time)

Department: Sales & Guest Services
Full-time/Part-time: Full-time
Exempt/Non-Exempt: Non-Exempt
Reports to: Director of Sales & Guests Services
Staff reporting to this position: Banquets and Event Associates

The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is an outgrowth of the Dubuque County Historical Society, which also operates the Mathias Ham Historic Site, is home to the National Rivers Hall of Fame, and supports a national outreach program called RiverWorks Discovery.

The Banquets & Events Manager position is primarily responsible for managing scheduled banquets and events at both the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium (NMRMA) and Mathias Ham Historic Site (MHHS) including, but not limited to: Weddings, Corporate Banquet Events, Mad Scientist Party, Ice Fest, Audrey Hammer 4th of July Ice Cream Social, Taste of Summer and other after hour events. This position will work directly with the organization’s sales team to manage banquets and events through coordinating logistics, handling administrative responsibilities, reserving and working with vendors, managing inventories and ordering, and managing a team of associates working, setting up and tearing down banquets and events to ensure a quality experience for all museum guests.

This position is an integral part of the Guest Services team that supports the banquets and events program, which provides significant funding for the organization’s mission to create educational experiences where history and rivers come alive. Ideal candidates will be self-motivated team players with strong attention to detail and accuracy. Weekend and evening hours will be required during banquets and events. An ideal candidate will have the opportunity to manage a work schedule that allows for work/life balance while achieving the goals set for the work required. Some work from home opportunity exists for an ideal candidate.

This is a full-time, permanent position. Compensation is competitive and commensurate with experience. Benefits include vacation time, sick time, paid holidays, medical, dental, flex plan, 403b retirement plan and the opportunity to earn additional income by receiving gratuities from banquets worked.
The Dubuque County Historical Society and its properties, the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium and Mathias Ham Historic Site, are committed to embracing diversity, practicing equity, and ensuring accessibility and inclusion. We continually strive to achieve a welcoming environment in all our spaces, where our staff and community feel reflected and valued for their unique perspectives and backgrounds. DEAI values guide and impact all the decisions the museum makes, both internal and external.
 

Primary duties
 

  • Plan, execute, and be onsite contact during banquets and events
  • Collaborate with departments across the organization to prepare for banquet needs and coordinate assigned events
  • Leads and supervises banquet staff including scheduling
  • Provide a high level of customer service to all clients
    • This includes proactively supporting all vendors, associates, and customers, responding promptly and appropriately to all inquiries
  • Work directly with vendors, associates, and partners to prepare for banquets and events
  • Communicate as liaison between vendors, associates, and partners, ensuring banquet and event needs have been accounted for
  • Responsible for internal logistics related to banquets and events including accurate creation of event forms, supply/beverage inventories, internal communications for setup, etc.
  • Helps to manage the inventory, organization, and cleanliness of the catering kitchen
  • Present the museum as clean and aesthetically appealing by helping to maintain event spaces
  • Possess the knowledge of facility management to allow for after-hours use
  • Work with Group Sales Manager as needed
  • Other duties as assigned

 

Qualifications
 

  • Bachelor's degree preferred, or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
  • Ideal candidates will have experience in event planning and preparation
  • Must have a flexible schedule with the ability to work nights and weekends during events and banquets
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy
  • Strong communication and organizational abilities
  • Knowledgeable with technology and database management
  • Ability to prioritize, focus, and manage time effectively
  • Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language
  • Must be able to perform the physical demands of set up, tear down, decoration, and other related tasks for events, either with or without reasonable accommodation
  • Final candidates will be subject to a reference and background check

 

How to apply
 

To learn more, visit www.rivermuseum.org/join-our-team. Apply by emailing your resume, cover letter, salary requirements and references to apply@rivermuseum.org or by delivering them in person to 350 E. 3rd St., Dubuque, IA 52001 by Monday, December 2.

Research suggests that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that any applicant is able to meet all of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if you are drawn to this position and feel your strengths would be an asset to the organization, we highly encourage you to apply.

Banquet Bartender (Part-time)

Department: Guest Services/Banquets
Full-time/Part-time: Part-time
Exempt/Non-Exempt: Non-exempt
Reports to: Sales and Banquet Manager
Staff reporting to this position: N/A
Location: National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is an outgrowth of the Dubuque County Historical Society, which also operates the Mathias Ham Historic Site, is home to the National Rivers Hall of Fame, and supports a national outreach program called RiverWorks Discovery. Its mission is to inspire stewardship by creating educational experiences where history and rivers come alive.

Banquet Bartenders are part of a team that coordinate and help to manage all aspects of afterhours banquet operations for groups hosting events at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium. An ideal candidate is someone that can take direction and contribute to a team setting, has exceptional service skills, is organized, and positively portrays the organization. This position requires a flexible schedule working evening and weekend hours. This position is paid hourly with an opportunity to earn additional income.

The Dubuque County Historical Society and its properties, the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium and Mathias Ham Historic Site, are committed to embracing diversity, practicing equity, and ensuring accessibility and inclusion. We continually strive to achieve a welcoming environment in all our spaces, where our staff and community feel reflected and valued for their unique perspectives and backgrounds. DEAI values guide and impact all the decisions the museum makes, both internal and external.
 

Primary duties

  • Banquet Bartenders: Work under the direction of the Sales & Banquet Manager along with banquet team assisting in all aspects of the event including but not limited to: tables/chairs set up/tear down, managing bar set up/tear down, bar operations and bar needs of specific event, cash handling, etc.
  • Provide an exceptional experience for all guests of the DCHS and NMRM&A
  • Communicate effectively with Sales & Banquet Manager and banquet staff to ensure all event needs are met
  • Present the museum positively by maintaining clean and presentable work areas
     

Qualifications

  • Previous customer service experience with banquet and/or bartending experience preferred, but not required
  • Excellent verbal communication skills
  • Must maintain composure, objectivity, and quick decision-making under pressure
  • Cash-handling experience
  • Ability to prioritize, focus, and manage time effectively
  • Compliance with the mission of the DCHS and the NMRM&A
  • Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language.
  • Must be able to perform any physical demands of job duties, either with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Final candidates will be subject to a reference and background check.
     

How to apply

To learn more, visit www.rivermuseum.org/apply. From website, download application and email to apply@rivermuseum.org or mail/deliver in person Attn: Teri Witt to 350 E. 3rd St., Dubuque, IA.
Research suggests that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that any applicant is able to meet all of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if you are drawn to this position and feel your strengths would be an asset to the organization, we highly encourage you to apply.

Digital Marketing & Graphic Design Coordinator (Full-time)

Department: Marketing & Communications         
Full-time/Part-time:  Full-time    
Exempt/Non-Exempt: Non-exempt
Reports to: Marketing & Communications Manager
Staff reporting to this position:  N/A
Location:  National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is an outgrowth of the Dubuque County Historical Society, which also operates the Mathias Ham Historic Site, is home to the National Rivers Hall of Fame, and supports a national outreach program called RiverWorks Discovery. Its mission is to inspire stewardship by creating educational experiences where history and rivers come alive. 

The Marketing & Communications team at the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is responsible for the public representation of the Museum & Aquarium through branding, advertising, media relations, social media, sales, and public events. The organization seeks a creative professional with strong communications, social media, photography, and videography skills who is looking for an opportunity to begin their career at a nationally recognized facility.

This is a full-time, permanent position. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience. Benefits include vacation time, sick time, paid holidays, medical, dental, flex plan, and 403b retirement plan. Some weekends, special events, or evening hours may be required.

The Dubuque County Historical Society and its properties, the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium and Mathias Ham Historic Site, are committed to embracing diversity, practicing equity, and ensuring accessibility and inclusion. We continually strive to achieve a welcoming environment in all our spaces, where our staff and community feel reflected and valued for their unique perspectives and backgrounds. DEAI values guide and impact all the decisions the museum makes, both internal and external.

Primary duties

Content Development
  • Work closely with the Marketing & Communications Manager, Creative Services Manager, and internal departments to create, strategize, organize, and disseminate engaging content for social media, e-newsletters, promotional pieces, advertising, and the website
  • Use design programs (Adobe Creative Suite) to create media content, advertising campaigns for print, digital, outdoor, and television, and internal communications. 
  • Maintain consistent messaging throughout all channels that aligns with the organizational mission. 
Social & Digital Media
  • Serve as the primary “voice” of the River Museum’s social media channels, developing strategy, providing creativity, and producing engaging content while managing day-to-day social media responsibilities and amplifying our brand and mission
  • Interact with our social media audience as necessary and assist in responding to inquiries and posts on our platforms
  • Work closely with the Marketing & Communications Manager and others to develop strategy, content, placement, and success of digital media efforts and to keep the website updated and maintained
Photography/Videography
  • Produce short form video for social media platforms as well as in-depth and longer educational content for grant and programming purposes
  • Take quality photographs and videos for use on social media and the organization’s website as well as take photographs, as needed, of events, programs, and activities for use in marketing publications   
Research and Analysis
  • Work closely with other departments to ensure accuracy of content prior to publication
  • Compile key metrics to inform future work and track for grant purposes
Collaboration
  • Work collaboratively with constituents to further the goals of the organization, including internal clients and external clients like local media and advertising partners
    • Collaboration with these constituents requires strong communication and organizational skills, while maintaining flexibility
Education
  • Actively seek ideas and keep appraised of trends and best practices in social media, marketing, communications, design, and the industry
  • Provide recommendations to strengthen and improve marketing and communications efforts
     
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in graphic design, media studies, communications, marketing, or related field required
  • A minimum of 1-3 years of experience in the field preferred 
  • Proficient in the following applications: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, LinkedIn, and website CMS systems such as Drupal
  • Intermediate experience with Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Premiere Pro 
  • Proven organizational skills, self-motivated, proactive, and excellent at time management
  • Strong oral and written communication skills, including strong proofreading abilities
  • Experience in paid social media advertising and other forms of digital advertising preferred
  • Proficient use of technology, including photography equipment
  • Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language
  • Must be able to perform any physical demands of job duties, either with or without reasonable accommodation.
  • Final candidates will be subject to a reference and background check

 

How to apply

To learn more, visit www.rivermuseum.org/join-our-team.  Apply by emailing your resume, cover letter, salary requirements, portfolio and/or media samples, and references to apply@rivermuseum.org or by delivering them in person to 350 E. 3rd St., Dubuque, IA 52001 by November 25, 2024.

Research suggests that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that any applicant is able to meet all the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if you are drawn to this position and feel your strengths will be an asset to the organization, we highly encourage you to apply.
 

Director of Education (Full-time)

Department: Education     
Full-time/Part-time: Full-time; flexibility on weekends, holidays and evenings is required
Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt
Reports to: President & CEO
Staff reporting to this position: Education staff
Location: National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium (NMRMA) is an outgrowth of the Dubuque County Historical Society (DCHS), which also operates the Mathias Ham Historic Site, is home to the National Rivers Hall of Fame, and supports a national outreach program called RiverWorks Discovery. Its mission is to inspire stewardship by creating educational experiences where history and rivers come alive.

The Director of Education oversees all interpretive programming at DCHS including educational programs, education-based partnerships, outreach, distance learning and interpretive tours.

This is a full-time, permanent position. Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience. Benefits include vacation time, sick time, paid holidays, medical, dental, flex plan, and 403b retirement plan.

The Dubuque County Historical Society and its properties, the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium and Mathias Ham Historic Site, are committed to embracing diversity, practicing equity, and ensuring accessibility and inclusion. We continually strive to achieve a welcoming environment in all our spaces, where our staff and community feel reflected and valued for their unique perspectives and backgrounds. DEAI values guide and impact all the decisions the museum makes, both internal and external.

Primary duties- Education

  • Ensure cohesive implementation of interpretation across all exhibits and programming
    • Lead core implementation team for the Interpretive Master Plan
    • Partner with various departments to ensure successful implementation of our interpretation plan
  • Assist with hiring, scheduling, training, supervising, and mentoring staff in a variety of educational programing and interpretation methods
    • Manage the Education team, both directly and through Education leads
    • Implement professional development opportunities for Education staff
  • Develop and manage an annual budget for the department that includes staffing, annual operating costs, and program revenue 
  • Assist the Education Department in developing, coordinating, instructing, and implementing educational programming on topics including but not limited to science, conservation, STEM, history, and the rivers of America
    • Maintain ability to lead any of NMRMA’s education programming/events as needed, which includes tours, classes and camps, MakerSpace, overnight adventures, behind-the-scenes tours and special events for learners of all ages
  • Serve on internal committees to provide input in the exhibit development process to ensure that exhibits contribute to institutional mission and guest experience goals

 

Additional duties

  • Co-lead DCHS board Education Committee meetings quarterly with board chairperson of committee
  • Represent DCHS at various community events, conferences, workshops, and other events as required
  • Maintain working relationships with local and regional educational organizations to foster new and continued collaboration
  • Work collaboratively with other departments, volunteers, the board of directors, and other stakeholders
  • Respond to private and public inquiries and media requests in coordination with the Marketing department
  • Stay versed in history, conservation, STEM, and other education-based topics, including learning about the animals and artifacts in the institutional collection
  • Maintain written records in accordance with established practices and departmental policies
  • Other duties as assigned

 

Qualifications 

  • Relevant college course work and/or a Bachelor’s degree with an emphasis in museum studies, education, biology, chemistry, engineering, environmental science, ecology, history, anthropology, or related field is required
  • Minimum of 6 years of experience in a zoo, aquarium or museum education setting strongly preferred
  • Minimum of 4 years of supervisory experience strongly preferred
  • Certified Interpretive Guide Trainer (CIG-T) certification from National Association for Interpretation preferred. 
  • Capable of dealing with emergencies calmly and efficiently
  • Possess superior decision-making skills to make sound, independent judgments
  • Possess superior problem-solving skills to identify problems and suggest solutions
  • Must be self-motivated enough to think outside the confines of established procedures to come up with new solutions to old problems
  • Demonstrate superb team-building skills with an ability to instill a positive and productive attitude in others
  • Must be comfortable around water and working indoors and outdoors in any weather
  • Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language
  • Must hold or be able to possess an Iowa, Wisconsin or Illinois driver’s license within 3 months of hire
  • Must be capable of holding certification in First Aid and CPR
  • Must be able to perform any physical demands of job duties, either with or without reasonable accommodation
  • Final candidates will be subject to a reference and background check

 

How to apply
 

To learn more, visit www.rivermuseum.org/join-our-team.  Apply by emailing your resume, cover letter, salary requirements, and references to apply@rivermuseum.org or by delivering them in person to 350 E. 3rd St., Dubuque, IA 52001.

Research suggests that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that any applicant is able to meet all of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if you are drawn to this position and feel your strengths would be an asset to the organization, we highly encourage you to apply.
 

Educator, Overnight (Part-time)

Department: Education     
Full-time/Part-time: Part-time    
Exempt/Non-Exempt: Non-exempt
Reports to: Director of Education
Staff reporting to this position: N/A
Location: National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is an outgrowth of the Dubuque County Historical Society, which also operates the Mathias Ham Historic Site, is home to the National Rivers Hall of Fame, and supports a national outreach program called RiverWorks Discovery. Its mission is to inspire stewardship by creating educational experiences where history and rivers come alive.

Educators are primarily responsible for the presentation of engaging and inclusive educational programs. On-site and off-site programs highlight connections to the Mississippi River through history, conservation, and STEM topics, utilizing dynamic resources of the NMRMA campus to forge meaningful connections with all audiences. Programs may also require live ambassador animals, requiring a degree of comfort around animals.

The Educator, Overnights position will be responsible for providing a quality experience for groups spending the night at the Museum during overnight hours. This position requires the educator to stay awake for the whole shift. Some number of daytime hours may be available for interested Educators to work during open museum hours as well.

The Dubuque County Historical Society and its properties, the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium and Mathias Ham Historic Site, are committed to embracing diversity, practicing equity, and ensuring accessibility and inclusion. We continually strive to achieve a welcoming environment in all our spaces, where our staff and community feel reflected and valued for their unique perspectives and backgrounds. DEAI values guide and impact all the decisions the museum makes, both internal and external.

Primary duties

  • Supervise students and their chaperones during the overnight portion of Overnight Education Programs: 
    • Transition the group from evening activities to their sleeping arrangements. 
    • Walk around at least once every hour and log anything that may be happening.
    • Wake the group and take them to the breakfast area.
    • Accompany the group and provide an opportunity to explore before the building opens for the day.

 

Secondary Duties

If desired, this position may also include the following duties:

  • Present and create exceptional and dynamic guest experiences in formal and informal settings
    • Develop and implement education programs, events, and activities for diverse audiences of all ages, including classes, camps, overnights, volunteer programs, tours, etc.
    • Conduct safety checks throughout the night
    • Assist with every aspect of a groups stay, including meals
  • Present and create exceptional and dynamic guest experiences in formal and informal settings.
    • Develop and implement education programs, events, and activities for diverse audiences of all ages, including classes, camps, volunteer programs, tours, etc.
    • Incorporate small and medium sized live animals, biological specimens, and/or historical artifacts and replicas whenever possible
  • Perform variable daily roles as assigned, including, but not limited to: MakerSpace, Boat Shop, Delta, Tidepool, W.M. Black dredge boat, camps, overnights, outreach, and tours


Additional duties

  • Follow all protocols, procedures, and uphold the Education Department Code of Conduct
  • Remain comfortable, competent, and invested in history, conservation, and STEM topics to ensure redundancy and cross-training are in place
  • Attend mandatory, prescheduled training sessions
  • Maintain written records in accordance with established practice and policy
  • Keep all education areas clean, organized and hazard free, report maintenance needs, and perform minor maintenance tasks
  • Engage in continued learning about machinery, animals, plants, and artifacts in institutional collection


Qualifications 

  • Relevant college course work, a Bachelor’s degree, or relevant experience with an emphasis on STEM fields including but not limited to engineering, computer science, graphic design, mathematics, biology, environmental science, ecology, history, anthropology, education, or a related field is encouraged but not required
  • Prior exposure to informal learning processes, preferably in an aquarium, zoo, nature center, historic site, or museum setting is beneficial
  • A personal email account and phone number are required for information exchange
  • Must be comfortable around the water, and indoors and outdoors in any weather
  • Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language
  • Must be able to perform any physical demands of job duties, either with or without reasonable accommodation
  • Final candidates will be subject to a reference and background check


How to apply

To learn more, visit www.rivermuseum.com/apply.  Apply by emailing your resume, cover letter, and references to apply@rivermuseum.com or by delivering them in person to 350 E. 3rd St., Dubuque, IA 52001.

Research suggests that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that any applicant is able to meet all of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if you are drawn to this position and feel your strengths would be an asset to the organization, we highly encourage you to apply.
 

Outreach Educator (Part-time)

Department: Education     
Full-time/Part-time: Part-time: flexibility on weekends, holidays and evenings is required.
Exempt/Non-Exempt: Non-exempt
Reports to: Outreach Manager
Staff reporting to this position: N/A
Location: National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is an outgrowth of the Dubuque County Historical Society, which also operates the Mathias Ham Historic Site, is home to the National Rivers Hall of Fame, and supports a national outreach program called RiverWorks Discovery. Its mission is to inspire stewardship by creating educational experiences where history and rivers come alive.

The Outreach Education position works as an advocate to ensure each of the Museum & Aquarium’s three core disciplines (history, conservation, and STEM) are represented through development of engaging interdisciplinary programs, and is responsible for the presentation of engaging and inclusive educational programs. This position is at its core focused most intensely on off-site programs. Many of these programs involve the use of live ambassador animals, requiring a degree of comfort around animals. On-site and off-site programs highlight connections to the Mississippi River through history, conservation, and STEM topics, utilizing dynamic resources of the NMRMA campus to forge meaningful connections with all audiences. In addition to programs, the Outreach Educator will assist with floor shifts, tours, and other projects as assigned, especially during slow periods in the outreach schedule, and often including one weekend day. Strong candidates will have an interest in curriculum development, and possess leadership skills to support the mission and vision of the NMRMA and the entire Dubuque County Historical Society.

The Dubuque County Historical Society and its properties, the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium and Mathias Ham Historic Site, are committed to embracing diversity, practicing equity, and ensuring accessibility and inclusion. We continually strive to achieve a welcoming environment in all our spaces, where our staff and community feel reflected and valued for their unique perspectives and backgrounds. DEAI values guide and impact all the decisions the museum makes, both internal and external.

Primary duties

  • Act as program specialist for off-site educational events, requiring a high degree of generalized knowledge of history, conservation, and STEM topics
    • Present and create exceptional and dynamic guest experiences in formal and informal settings
    • Lead educational programs, which often include: crafts, live animal encounters, games, hands-on activities, historical artifacts, props, etc.
    • Assist the Outreach Manager in the development of education programs and activities for diverse audiences of all ages.
    • Incorporate small and medium sized live animals, biological specimens, and/or historical artifacts and replicas whenever possible.
    • Lead RiverWorks Discovery off-site educational experiences, such as Who Works the River, as needed

 

Additional duties

  • Perform variable daily roles as assigned, including, but not limited to: MakerSpace, Boat Shop, Delta, W.M. Black dredge boat, Wet Lab, Camps, Overnights, and Tours
  • Follow all protocols, procedures, and uphold the Education Department Code of Conduct
  • Maintain strong communication with the Outreach Manager and Animal Ambassador Keeper
  • Maintain written records in accordance with established practice and policy
  • Attend mandatory, prescheduled training sessions
  • Remain comfortable, competent, and invested in history, conservation, and STEM topics to ensure redundancy and cross-training are in place
  • Engage in continued learning about tools, artifacts, animals, and plants in institutional collection
  • Keep all education areas clean, organized and hazard free, report maintenance needs, and perform minor maintenance tasks

 

Qualifications 

  • Relevant college course work and/or a Bachelor’s degree with an emphasis on history, anthropology, education, biology, environmental science, ecology, or a related field is strongly preferred
     
  • A minimum of 2 years of paid education experience with formal or informal learning processes, ideally in a museum, aquarium, zoo, or nature center preferred
  • Possess the ability to adapt quickly and be flexible in any scenario, as well as maintain considerable patience 
  • Possess a curiosity to identify and creatively facilitate strategies which engage audiences with making and design
  • Ability to learn quickly and be self-motivated to elevate personal skill set
  • Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language
  • Must have a personal email account and phone number for information exchange
  • Must possess or be able to acquire a valid Iowa, Wisconsin or Illinois driver’s license within 3 months of hire
  • Must be capable of holding certification in First Aid and CPR
  • Must be comfortable working in and around water, and in inclement weather conditions
  • Must be able to perform any physical demands of job duties, either with or without reasonable accommodation
  • Final candidates will be subject to a reference and background check

 

How to apply
 

To learn more, visit www.rivermuseum.com/apply.  Apply by emailing your resume, cover letter, and references to apply@rivermuseum.com or by delivering them in person to 350 E. 3rd St., Dubuque, IA 52001.

Research suggests that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that any applicant is able to meet all of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if you are drawn to this position and feel your strengths would be an asset to the organization, we highly encourage you to apply.
 


 

Volunteer Positions

The very nature of volunteering means choosing to work without being paid for it. As a result, people choose to spend their time on issues they feel strongly about. If you have a passion for animals, history, education, or conservation, the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, Dubuque County Historical Society, and Mathias Ham Historic Site are for you!

Volunteers receive several benefits including free individual admission. Flexible schedules are available. To apply, complete the volunteer application below. Some positions may require you to upload a cover letter and resume. For more information, contact Missy Wersinger at 563-557-9545 x213 or mwersinger@rivermuseum.org.

volunteer application

Blacksmithing

Blacksmith volunteers work in either the boat shop or the blacksmith shop to help with electrical, woodworking, blacksmithing, building, and repair projects for the Museum & Aquarium. Volunteer blacksmiths also conduct demonstrations for guests during certain special events throughout the year. Those interested in this position do not need to have previous blacksmithing experience, but must be interested in learning skill work to demonstrate for visitors.

Equipment and basic training is provided upon starting in this position.

Conservation

Conservation volunteers work alongside our Curator of Conservation Programs on daily, weekly, and monthly projects in the community, including habitat restoration, campus habitat care, greenhouse tending, mussel survey work, prairie, forest, and woodland restoration days, river cleanups, seed harvesting, and more. Those interested will be scheduled and contacted about opportunities as they arise. 

Development

Volunteers will assist Development staff with matching pre-scanned documents to donation records in our database, Altru. The scanned document would then be attached to the file associated to that record. Training is provided and once understood the volunteer can work independently.

Applicants should possess:

  • A comfortability in working with computers
  • Attention to detail

 

Note: An NDA must be signed by Development volunteers as files and documents may contain sensitive donor information

Greeters

The volunteer greeter is one of the first individuals that the guests of the Museum & Aquarium interact with. Greeters welcome each visitor to our campus, provide them with a map, and direct them to the various features and exhibits of the Museum & Aquarium. This includes explaining the different buildings and areas, highlighting certain animals, and going over the daily activities being offered.

Basic training is provided prior to starting in this position.

MakerSpace

At the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, the MakerSpace volunteer will assist the educator in overseeing the space.

Role and Responsibilities:

  • Welcome guests to the space.
  • Assist with describing what activities are available to the guests and helping them with the activity, as needed.
  • Clean up areas, as needed.
  • Good communication skills. Comfortable approaching guests and initiating conversation.
  • Other related duties as assigned.

Living Collections

Living Collections volunteers will help to provide daily care of various animals at the Museum &  Aquarium. This may include daily feedings and enclosure cleaning, making and documenting observations related to animal health and well-being, maintaining written and electronic records, testing water quality, and following other Living Collections procedures.

A typical Living Collections volunteer will possess a high school diploma, a background or experience relating to animal husbandry, and be able to commit to a minimum of 8 hours a week with the team.

Extensive training is provided upon starting this position.

Receptionist

The volunteer receptionist is stationed in the administration office of the Mississippi River Center. Receptionists answer all incoming calls during normal business hours and direct them accordingly. They will also greet, welcome, and direct all in-person guests who arrive for meetings and other business. Various mailings and other administrative and office-related tasks also fall under this position.

Basic training is provided upon starting this position.

River of Innovation (ROI)

The Rivers of Innovation (ROI) Assistant helps to provide a positive experience for visitors to the Rivers of Innovation area focusing on the topographic map and water table area.
Volunteers will perform the following tasks:

  • Welcome and interact with visitors in the exhibit
  • Mopping up any water on the floor from the water table
  • Sweep up topographic map pieces
  • Interpreting the various elements of the ROI exhibit from the Machine Shop to the Boat Shop
  • Direct guests to locations around campus as needed such as the bathroom, comfort room, and the second salt water building.

Special Events

Special events volunteers assist with the Museum & Aquarium's events throughout the year, ranging from small to large scale. Typical tasks may include set up and tear down, helping facilitate crafts, games, and experiments, food preparation, ticketing, historical demonstrations, dressing up in character, and more. Those interested will be contacted about opportunities as they arise. 

Stingray Touch Tank

Down in the Delta volunteers work alongside a museum educator to interpret and inform guests who visit the Delta touch tank about the various rays and skates on exhibit. Volunteers are also responsible for helping to maintain the safety of both the animals and guests, such as instructing guests to rinse their hands before touching the animals, explaining the proper technique to touch and feed the animals, and providing basic facts about the rays and skates to enrich guests’ experience.

Basic training is provided prior to starting in this position.

Traveling Exhibit (seasonal)

Our special traveling exhibits are on the 2nd floor of the Mississippi River Center. The volunteer will direct guests to areas of the exhibit and assist when needed.

Volunteers will perform the following tasks:

  • Welcome and answer questions about the exhibit
  • Direct visitors on how to use certain interactive parts 
  • Assist the mini rock wall and zip line
  • Notify staff if there are broken parts that need repaired
  • Wipe down areas that get used frequently throughout the exhibit
  • Other related duties as assigned
     

William M. Black (WMB) (seasonal)

The William M. Black dredge boat volunteer provides a positive experience for visitors that come aboard the 1934 vessel. The dredge boat is open seasonally and weather dependent. The volunteer will assist the William M. Black Educator by welcoming them and directing them to tour specific areas of the boat. 

Volunteers will perform the following tasks:

  • Welcome and interact with visitors as they board the vessel
  • Hand out brochures with facts about the William M. Black 
  • Mopping up any water on the deck
  • Sweep or dust visible areas near the entry of the boat 
  • Interpreting the various elements of the William M. Black including the history and the function of different portions of the dredge boat.
  • Direct guests to locations around campus as needed such as the bathroom, comfort room, café and the second building.

 

Internships

We love helping college students gain real-life experience! If you are interested in any of the posted internships, please complete the internship application below and email along with your resume, cover letter, and any additional requirements. Applications may also be submitted in person at either box office. 

For questions, contact Kristen Leffler at 563-557-9545 x221 or kleffler@rivermuseum.org.

Deadlines for submission are as follows

  • Spring semester application deadline January 1 annually
  • Summer semester application deadline: April 15 annually
  • Fall semester application deadline: August 15 annually 
     

internship application

Banquets Internship

The Banquet intern will assist the Sales & Guest Services Department with the booking, planning, coordination, preparation, and post-event needs of all after-hours banquet operations for events at NMRMA. This may include weddings, receptions, corporate events, and other similar gatherings.

Primary Duties

  • Participate in organizing and executing events
  • Attend client meetings or participate in client phone calls
  • Set tables, chairs, and other equipment to the specification of the client
  • Collaborate with Banquet service and Banquet bartenders as to achieve the overall success of the event
  • Break down and store tables, chairs and other equipment at the conclusion of an event
  • Clean and maintain all event space to the standards of the organization

 

Application
Please send application, resume, and cover letter materials to Kristen Leffler at kleffler@rivermuseum.org. Details and information can be found on www.rivermuseum.org/join-our-team.

Conservation Programs Internship

Are you interested in getting hands-on, outside of the classroom experience in the environmental field and becoming a member of the next generation of conservation heroes?  The Conservation Programs internship allows for the opportunity to understand the role of action-oriented conservation campaigns and participate in networking opportunities with and learn from conservation professionals.

Primary Duties

  • Facilitate in-situ community-based conservation action programming with area conservation partners targeting family audiences. Programming may include but is no limited to:
    • Freshwater Mussel Propagation for Restoration
    • Invasive Species Removal
    • Trash Clean-ups
    • Bottomland Forest Restoration
    • Wildlife Surveys
    • Water Quality Monitoring
  • Assist in the facilitation of Teen Stewardship Team work sessions and in-situ conservation action programming 
  • Explore the elements that go into an aquarium-based conservation organization including:
    • Conservation Education
    • Development and Funding
    • Marketing
    • Graphics
    • Public Relations
  • Enhance teamwork, leadership and communication skills.
  • Work with others towards the goal of saving wildlife and stewarding rivers


Application
Please send application, resume, and cover letter materials to Kristen Leffler at kleffler@rivermuseum.org. Details and information can be found on www.rivermuseum.org/join-our-team.

Development Database Internship

The Development intern will assist the Development department with ongoing fundraising activities that meet our mission. The intern will work collaboratively with staff to update donor and member demographic information, research match gift organizations and opportunities, and work to update our digital donor gift history information as we move closer to our goal of being an even more sustainable/green organization while learning the processes and importance of non-profit development.

This is a distinct opportunity to advance the organization’s capability to fundraise and maintain a properly updated database and increase strong collaborative efforts with local organizations and prospective donors.


Primary Duties

  • Gain and maintain working knowledge of our donor and member database system

  • Maintain a working database of funders and deadlines

  • Assist in prospect research and cultivation of current and new donors, major gifts, and matching gifts

  • Research possible sponsors, which fits the organizations vision, mission and ongoing educational activities

  • Track and report event sponsors in the community

  • Assist in planning Museum & Aquarium upcoming events

Application

Please send application, resume, and cover letter materials to Kristen Leffler at kleffler@rivermuseum.org. Details and information can be found on www.rivermuseum.org/join-our-team.

Living Collections Internship

The Living Collections internship provides a unique opportunity for students to gain hands on experience, develop transferable job skills, and learn about a variety of different topics related directly to the zoo and aquarium industry.  Interns will learn about a variety of aspects concerning animals in human care across multiple taxonomic groups such as freshwater fish, saltwater fish, reptiles, amphibians, birds, invertebrates, and mammals.  Interns will work directly with the Living Collections team and, over the course of the internship, gain a working knowledge of various concepts in the subjects of animal husbandry, water quality, and life support systems.  Additionally, students will be given the opportunity to complete a project of their choice that aligns with their personal goals as well as the goals of the organization and present their outcomes to the team.

Preference will be given to highly motivated 3rd and 4th year college/university students majoring in biology, zoology, or a related field with career goals specifically related to this field of study.  

The minimum hours requirement for fall and spring is 12 hours weekly (1–8-hour day and 1 half day), and in the summer is 16 hours per week (2 full 8-hour days).  Interns are welcome to work more hours per their availability.

Primary duties

  • Preparation of animal diets
  • Enclosure cleaning and servicing
  • Basic water quality testing
  • Lead public feedings
  • Provide excellent customer service to guests
  • Other duties as assigned.

 

Application

Please send application, resume, and cover letter materials to Kristen Leffler at kleffler@rivermuseum.org. Details and information can be found on www.rivermuseum.org/join-our-team.

 

Social Media & Communications Internship

The Marketing & Communications team at the organization is responsible for public representation through branding, advertising, media relations, social media, sales, and public events. The Social Media and Communications intern will work closely with the Marketing & Communications Manager, Graphic Design Manager, and other departments to collect, develop, organize, and disseminate engaging content for social media, press releases, e-newsletters, promotional pieces, advertising, and the website.

Primary Duties

  • Collaborate to serve as a primary “voice” of the River Museum’s social media channels, developing strategy, providing creativity, and producing engaging content while managing day-to-day social media responsibilities and amplifying our brand and mission
  • Interact with our social media audience as necessary and assist in responding to inquiries and posts on our platforms
  • Work closely with the Marketing & Communications Manager and others to develop strategy, content, placement, and success of digital media efforts and to keep the website updated and maintained
  • Take quality photographs and videos for use on social media and the organization’s website as well as take photographs, as needed, of events, programs, and activities for use in marketing publications
  • Produce short form video for social media platforms as well as in-depth and longer educational content for grant and programming purposes
  • Maintain the organization’s website, including organizing and updating webpages
  • Assist with content development as needed for website, social media, and digital creative
  • Actively seek ideas and keep apprised of trends and best practices in social media, marketing, communications, design, and the industry
  • Provide recommendations to strengthen and improve marketing and communications efforts

 

Application
Please send application, resume, and cover letter materials to Kristen Leffler at kleffler@rivermuseum.org. Details and information can be found on www.rivermuseum.org/join-our-team.