Employment

The MK Reichert Sternlicht Foundation Summer Internship Program

The MK Reichert Sternlicht Foundation Summer Internship Program introduces undergraduate students to museum work and offers in-depth experience under the supervision of a dedicated Bruce Museum staff member. As a result of their internship, students will understand the inner workings of a museum and learn about career opportunities in the museum field. The program is designed to be an introductory experience for students with limited or no prior experience in museum work.

Program Details

The MK Reichert Sternlicht Foundation Summer Internship Program offers undergraduate students the unique opportunity to develop professional skills and learn museum best practices. Selected students will receive support and mentorship from Museum staff while working on a defined project. At the conclusion of the internship, students will not only gain a deeper understanding of museum work but also strengthen their resumes and ability to gain further employment in the field.

The internship will begin June 1, 2026 and run for 9 weeks until July 31, 2026. During the internship period, students will work 5 days a week (typically Monday through Friday) for a total of 35 hours each week. Over the course of the internship, students will receive a $5,512.50 stipend. Each department will assign the intern a defined project along with routine responsibilities and each intern will work under the supervision of a full-time Museum staff member. Interns will learn the inner workings of the Museum by participating in Department and All Staff meetings and by receiving mentorship and support from their supervisor. Interns will also participate in a field trip to a nearby museum with Bruce staff for a behind the scenes tour and networking opportunities.

At the conclusion of the program, interns will present on their project at an All Staff or Senior Staff meeting. The MK Reichert Sternlicht Foundation is generously supporting this program.

Qualifications

Ideal candidates will have an interest in art, science, or both and a desire to learn more about working in a museum. No previous experience in art, science, or museum work is necessary. This program is open to currently enrolled undergraduate students; students graduating during the 2025–2026 academic year are eligible.

Positions available

In summer 2026, the Bruce will accept two interns, one for each department described below.

Audience Engagement

The Education Intern will work with the Audience Engagement (AE) Department as they develop programs for visitors of all ages. The intern will assist AE staff with critical daily tasks while focusing on visitor experience research. Examples of visitor experience research could include collecting post-program survey responses, tracking museum visitor movement, taking notes on participant interactions during programs, and developing a post-experience questionnaire for specific programs. Examples of daily tasks include material prep, program delivery, and upcoming event research. Reporting to the Director of Audience Engagement, the Intern’s typical hours will be Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm, with occasional weekend and evening hours.

Development

The Development Department Intern will work closely with members of the Development team to carry out the Museum's fundraising efforts. Responsibilities include drafting select fundraising letters including donor acknowledgement and solicitation letters, researching individual, corporate, and foundation prospects, supporting select special events, and supporting efforts to maintain accurate donor records. Reporting to the Associate Director of Development, the Intern’s typical hours will be Monday through Friday, 9am–5pm.

How to Apply

Please submit the following application materials to internships@brucemuseum.org by Monday February 2, 2026:

• Completed internship application cover sheet
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae: Please be sure to include relevant academic, employment, and volunteer experience as well as computer and language skills.
• Statement of Interest: Please submit an essay of no more than 750 words explaining your interest in the museum field, what led you to apply for the Sternlicht Foundation Summer Internship Program, and how your specific interests and skills sets may apply to the department internship you would like to be considered for.
• Unofficial transcript(s) from your undergraduate institution(s)
• Writing sample of 3–5 pages in length
• Contact information for 3 references, which can be current or previous employers, professors, or academic advisors; please include name, job title, email address, and phone number

Timeline

• December 2025: Applications open for submissions
• February 2, 2026: Application due date
• February 2026: First-round interviews conducted via Zoom
• March 2026: Finalist interviews, in-person if feasible
• April 2026: Applicants informed of final decisions
• June 1, 2026: Internships commence
• July 31, 2026: Internships conclude

Contact

Please direct any questions about the Sternlicht Foundation Summer Internship Program to internships@brucemuseum.org

Major Gifts Officer, Full-Time

The Major Gifts Officer is responsible for the identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of individuals, organizations, private foundations, and businesses/corporations related to Major Gift fundraising activities of the Bruce Museum. They will develop and implement strategies for cultivating relationships, and matching donor interests with Museum needs while securing financial donations.

Responsibilities

The Major Gifts Officer reports to the Chief Development Office and is responsible for the following:

• Identify, cultivate, and develop strategies to solicit major donor prospects for significant contributions to Bruce Museum funding Campaigns, giving societies, and overall fundraising goals.
• Maintain a portfolio of major gift donors/prospects; track and report progress using metrics on a defined basis.
• Work closely with the Museum board and fundraising committees to manage prospect assignments and record interactions/actions.
• Serve as an integral part of the team that develops the major gifts annual campaign and Endowment Campaign, coordinating the development of campaign materials, activities, and events.
• Solicit or facilitate solicitation meetings with major donor prospects, working directly with the CDO and museum leadership as appropriate.
• Maintain accurate and timely records/contact reports of all interactions with donors utilizing fundraising software.
• Coordinate and maintain positive relationships with other staff members to maximize donor relationships and philanthropic giving.
• Function as a resource in the coordination of fundraising events.
• Prepare written materials such as proposals, solicitations, reports, and appeal letters.
• Provide excellent donor service as a primary point of contact.
• Work collaboratively with the development and finance teams to facilitate reporting, research, and analysis.
• Assist with proposal/concept development, including management, writing, and ensuring high quality, successful submissions to individuals and private foundation donors.
• Coordinate strategic meetings with major donors and internal teams.
• Use major giving fundraising and marketing tools.
• Work collaboratively with board members and staff on fundraising priorities.
• Acknowledge major donors through public and private recognition.
• Attend institutional cultivation events to steward donors and prospects and development new key relationships.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Recommended Education, Experience, Knowledge, and Skills:

• At least six years of relevant work experience, including front-line fundraising, working with individual donors, and experience with 501(c)(3) fundraising.
• Demonstrated work experience and donor contacts in mission-aligned areas.
• Demonstrated success managing a portfolio of donors.
• Proven track record in fundraising from individuals.
• Demonstrated entrepreneurial ability to develop alliances and coordinate shared interests of all parties.
• Excellent problem-solving skills designed to meet the organization’s challenges.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with considerable experience in writing and presenting information to a variety of audiences.
• Ability to use data and CRM systems to set fundraising strategy and priorities, measure outcomes, and drive superior performance.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Strong analytical and prospect research skills.
• Strong interpersonal, mediation, and facilitation skills.
• Familiarity with 501(c)(3) regulations is a plus
• Bachelor’s Degree

Compensation: $80,000–$87,000, commensurate with experience.

Benefits: Medical & Dental (approximately 75% of premium covered by employer); HSA (employer contribution towards plan(medical) deductible); 401k (5% employer contribution); Pre-tax Commuter benefit; Group Term Life Insurance coverage up to $50k maximum; Short Term & Long-term disability coverage; PTO (Sick, Vacation & some federal holidays); Bruce Museum, AAM & NEMA Memberships; 20% discount in the Museum Store & Café.

To apply: submit a cover letter and CV to jobs@brucemuseum.org with the subject line applicant’s last name and “Major Gifts Associate”.

Facilities Associate, Part-Time

The Facilities Associate plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation and maintenance of museum facilities to create a welcoming and safe environment for visitors, staff, and collections.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Perform daily walkthroughs of museum facilities to identity and address any maintenance issues, safety hazards, or cleanliness concerns.
• Assist with routine maintenance tasks such as cleaning, dusting, vacuuming, and trash removal to uphold museum standards of cleanliness and presentation.
• Monitor and maintain building systems, including HVAC, lighting, plumbing, and security, to ensure optimal functionality and efficiency.
• Coordinate with external vendors and contractors for repairs, maintenance, and facility upgrades as needed.
• Operate power tools and other variety of hand tools, i.e. Cordless drill, snowblower, weedwhacker, lawn mower, sockets, wrenches, and pliers
• Assist with the installation, deinstallation, and exhibition materials under the guidance of museum curators and registrars.
• Provide support for museum events, exhibitions, and programs by setting up and breaking down furniture, equipment, and signage as needed.
• Assist with facility security procedures, including opening and closing duties, alarm system monitoring, and emergency response protocols.
• Conduct regular inspections of museum facilities to ensure compliance with safety regulations, building codes, and ADA accessibility standards.
• Maintain accurate records of facility maintenance activities, work orders, and inventory of supplies and equipment.
• Collaborate with museum staff across departments to address facility-related needs and support the overall mission and vision of the museum.
• Must be able to complete tasks independently, efficiently, and effectively

Required Education/Experience/Skills:

• Education: high school diploma required
• Professional Experience: Minimum 1 year of experience.
• Bilingual preferred
• Experience with Power tools and equipment

Compensation: $22.00–$24.00 per hour, commensurate with experience.

To apply: submit a resume to jobs@brucemuseum.org with the subject line applicant’s last name and “Facilities Associate”.