Job Title: SunWatch Technician
Department: SunWatch and Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
Reports To: Curator of Anthropology & Exhibitions
FLSA Status: Salary, Non-Exempt – $35,000/yr

Summary

This position is divided between archaeological reconstruction efforts at SunWatch Village and compliance-related work under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) for the Dayton Society of Natural History (DSNH). To succeed in this role, the candidate must be capable of performing all essential duties effectively, demonstrating strong organizational abilities and the capacity to work independently as well as collaboratively. Meeting project deadlines is essential.

The individual will lead reconstruction and experimental archaeology initiatives at SunWatch Village. Responsibilities include overseeing hands-on reconstruction activities, supporting volunteer recruitment and management, and conducting guided tours. Please note, this role involves significant physical labor.  The individual will support the DSNH’s NAGPRA program through collections management, archival tasks, and artifact processing. This role may involve handling or working in proximity to human remains, funerary objects, sacred objects, and objects of cultural patrimony.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Oversee the maintenance and construction of outdoor reconstructions and exhibits at SunWatch Village, including the coordination of natural material harvesting for use in reconstruction projects.
• Support the care of native prairie landscapes and outdoor garden spaces.
• Conduct guided tours of SunWatch Village, ensure site security during hours of operation, and manage proper opening and closing procedures.
• Develop and produce educational materials, including reproduction tools, animal hides, and decorative elements that enhance visitor engagement and learning; burn weekly fires in the reconstructed houses.
• Recruit, train, and supervise volunteers participating in SunWatch activities and programming.
• Assist in the organization, documentation, and inventory of the SunWatch collection with the objective of updating and maintaining all relevant NAGPRA databases.
• Provide support for cataloging and inventory efforts at the Boonshoft Museum as needed.
• Digitize historical NAGPRA records and organize ongoing correspondence and documentation related to NAGPRA compliance.
• Contribute to the preparation of human remains (HR) inventories and cultural summaries specific to the SunWatch collection.
• Participate in consultation efforts with Tribal Nations, assist with the planning and coordination of on-site visits, and uphold professional standards related to NAGPRA procedures.
• Attend biweekly staff meetings and regular one-on-one meetings with the direct supervisor to ensure alignment on goals and responsibilities.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Manages SunWatch Volunteers and Seasonal Reconstruction Workers. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. Coordinates with other departments at the DSNH as well as outside contractors.

Education and/or Experience

Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology, Archaeology, or related field with preferred experience in working with Native American cultural materials. Strong understanding of NAGPRA and Experimental Archaeology preferred.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions. While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands or fingers, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls. The employee is required to stand, walk, sit, and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus. The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  The applicant must be comfortable performing the duties associated with this job under various conditions.  The employee may be exposed to wet and/or humid conditions; moving mechanical parts; use ladders for high, precarious places; and outside weather conditions.  The employee is required to comply with all safety equipment provided for the work conducted, including ear and eye protection, chainsaw chaps, leather aprons for the use of draw knives, gloves, and in some cases closed-toe shoes.  The employee may also be regularly exposed to the sun, poison ivy, and insects (bees, wasps, flies, and others).

Equal Employment Opportunity

The Organization provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment regardless of race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, status as a Vietnam-era or special disabled veteran, or any other protected factor in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, employee development, transfer, promotion, compensation, and corrective action.

Interested candidates should forward a resume and cover letter to: HR@boonshoftmuseum.org.

JOB TITLE: Eco Eatery Associate

JOB LOCATION: Boonshoft Museum of Discovery

WORK HOURS: Part-Time, Hourly

HOURLY RATE: $14

REPORTS TO: Eco Eatery Manager

Summary: An Eco Eatery Associate is responsible for maintaining an environment that is welcoming, upbeat, and comfortable for all guests. An Eco Eatery Associate will ensure guest satisfaction, membership promotion efforts, and efficient cash-handling procedures. An Eco Eatery Associate will also demonstrate a mastery of all Society-approved cash handling and retail procedures, and effectively and efficiently operate Eco Eatery operations. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• · Ensure that all visitors are professionally welcomed with information to make certain that they have the opportunity to enjoy the Museum to the fullest extent
• · Provide an outstanding model of customer service standards for all employees and volunteers to follow
• · Execute duties, including preparing and serving food in the Eco Eatery, thoroughly understanding the Point of Sale system and all responsibilities associated with customer experience at all sites
• · Present a friendly, welcoming, and professional image to visitors
• · Be proficient with the proper procedures for entering sales and information into Point of Sales systems
• · Be familiar with Museum policies/operations, and relay inquiries and information to appropriate staff
• · Utilize proactive sales techniques in the Eco Eatery
• · Energetically and consistently promote Eco Eatery promotions
• · Maintain a clean, orderly workspace in Eco Eatery areas
• · Perform opening and closing procedures for the Eco Eatery
• · Assist during special events and private rentals
• · Assist the Eco Eatery Manager and Eco Eatery Assistant Manager in daily tasks and special assignments
• · Other duties as assigned

Interested candidates should forward an Application or resume and salary requirements to: The Dayton Society of Natural History, Manager, Human Resources, 2600 DeWeese Parkway, Dayton, OH 45414, or email HR@boonshoftmuseum.org.

Job Title: Groundskeeper, Full-time

Department: Facilities

Reports To: Director of Facilities

FLSA Status: Hourly Non-exempt

Hourly Rate: $15-17 per hour

Prepared By: Director of Facilities

Prepared Date: 4/7/2025

Approved By: CFO

Approved Date: 4/7/2025

Summary: Maintain lawns, trees, shrubs, flowers, stair paths and turf. Will also assist Maintenance and Housekeeping

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following:

• · Receives written work orders or verbal instructions from supervisor.
• · Mows grass, trim weeds and plows gardens on organization’s property.
• · Spraying insecticides and pesticides, as directed.
• · Cleaning up storm or weather related damages as directed.
• · Operates snow/ice removal equipment to maintain parking lots and sidewalks.
• · Maintain vehicles and grounds equipment (tractors and lawn mowers, weed trimmers, garden tools, etc.), maintain and fill in maintenance schedules as needed.
• · Ability to work outside exposed to variable weather conditions and skin irritants (i.e. poison ivy, poison oak, etc.).
• · Empties trash cans, picks up trash, and consolidates trash for weekly pickup.
• · Operates forklift and/or skid steer to move heavy items.
• · Cuts down and removes trees. Using chainsaws, mulching machinery and hand tools.
• · Assist with repairs in the building involving minor plumbing and electrical systems, includes replacing worn or defective parts such as switches, fuses and light bulbs.
• · Minor carpentry, plumbing, electrical work and attend to repair emergencies as needed (water leaks, etc.)
• · Monitors fire extinguishers and emergency drills.
• · Paints interior and exterior walls and trim.
• · Assists with set up and breakdown of tables, chairs, pipe and drape, trash cans, etc. for institutional events.
• · Assists with cleaning internal areas of buildings, including buffing, dusting, vacuuming, sweeping, and mopping.
• · Assists other departments with moving furniture and unloading and storing supplies.
• · Back-up housekeeping and facilities as needed.
• · Complete tasks list that are posted, written and verbal.

Helpful Attributes: An outstanding attitude of customer service, professionalism and teamwork; Able to follow instructions and respond to management direction; reliable and responsible traits; Committed to working extra hours if necessary. Good work ethic, attendance and punctuality a must.

Qualifications: High school diploma or GED. Knowledge of grounds keeping techniques such as pruning, herbicide and insecticide usage, working building maintenance, plumbing, machinery, electrical, HVAC.

Education and/or Experience: High school diploma or general education degree (or GED); or six months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Essential Physical Functions: This is a physically demanding job. The employee is regularly required to stand, walk, use hands to finger, handle or feel, reach with hands and arms, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to climb or balance. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

Equal Employment Opportunity: The Organization provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment regardless of race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, status as a Vietnam-era or special disabled veteran, or any other protected factor in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, employee development, transfer, promotion, compensation, and corrective action.

Interested candidates should forward an Application or resume and salary requirements to: The Dayton Society of Natural History, Manager, Human Resources, 2600 DeWeese Parkway, Dayton, OH 45414, or email HR@boonshoftmuseum.org.

The Dayton Society of Natural History is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Title: Groundskeeper, Seasonal

Department: Facilities

Reports To: Director of Facilities

Job Title: Groundskeeper, Seasonal

Department: Facilities

FLSA Status: Hourly Non-exempt

Hourly Rate: $15-17 per hour

Prepared By: Director of Facilities

Prepared Date: 4/7/2025

Approved By: CFO

Approved Date: 4/7/2025

Summary: Maintain lawns, trees, shrubs, flowers, stair paths and turf. Will also assist Maintenance and Housekeeping

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following:

• · Receives written work orders or verbal instructions from supervisor.
• · Mows grass, trim weeds and plows gardens on organization’s property.
• · Spraying insecticides and pesticides, as directed.
• · Cleaning up storm or weather related damages, as directed.
• · Operates snow/ice removal equipment to maintain parking lots and sidewalks.
• · Maintain vehicles and grounds equipment (tractors and lawn mowers, weed trimmers, garden tools, etc.), maintain and fill in maintenance schedules as needed.
• · Ability to work outside exposed to variable weather conditions and skin irritants (i.e. poison ivy, poison oak, etc.).
• · Empties trash cans, picks up trash, and consolidates trash for weekly pickup.
• · Operates forklift and/or skid steer to move heavy items.
• · Cuts down and removes trees. Using chainsaws, mulching machinery and hand tools.
• · Assist with repairs in the building involving minor plumbing and electrical systems, includes replacing worn or defective parts such as switches, fuses and light bulbs.
• · Minor carpentry, plumbing, electrical work and attend to repair emergencies as needed (water leaks, etc.)
• · Monitors fire extinguishers and emergency drills.
• · Paints interior and exterior walls and trim.
• · Assists with set up and breakdown of tables, chairs, pipe and drape, trash cans, etc. for institutional events.
• · Assists with cleaning internal areas of buildings, including buffing, dusting, vacuuming, sweeping, and mopping.
• · Assists other departments with moving furniture and unloading and storing supplies.
• · Back-up housekeeping and facilities as needed.
• · Complete tasks list that are posted, written and verbal.

Helpful Attributes: An outstanding attitude of customer service, professionalism and teamwork; Able to follow instructions and respond to management direction; reliable and responsible traits; Committed to working extra hours if necessary. Good work ethic, attendance and punctuality a must.

Qualifications: High school diploma or GED. Knowledge of grounds keeping techniques such as pruning, herbicide and insecticide usage, working building maintenance, plumbing, machinery, electrical, HVAC.

Education and/or Experience: High school diploma or general education degree (or GED); or six months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Essential Physical Functions: This is a physically demanding job. The employee is regularly required to stand, walk, use hands to finger, handle or feel, reach with hands and arms, stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to climb or balance. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

Equal Employment Opportunity: The Organization provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment regardless of race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, status as a Vietnam-era or special disabled veteran, or any other protected factor in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, employee development, transfer, promotion, compensation, and corrective action.

Interested candidates should forward an Application or resume and salary requirements to: The Dayton Society of Natural History, Manager, Human Resources, 2600 DeWeese Parkway, Dayton, OH 45414, or email HR@boonshoftmuseum.org.

The Dayton Society of Natural History is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Position: Public Programs Internship

Sessions:

• Applications for the May to August session must be received by April 1st
• Applications for the September to December session must be received by August 1st
• Applications for the January-April session must be received by December 1st

Supervisor: Public Programs Manager

Summary:

Interns will join the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery’s education team to learn about the informal education aspects of the museum world. They will lead daily educational programs and provide engaging opportunities for visitors in topics such as chemistry, physics, biology, and more.

Public speaking and interpretation techniques are core skills that will be developed over the course of the internship. Lead daily interactive shows with science demonstrations inside our Science Theater and walk participants through a hands-on science activity in the Do Lab. Additionally, encourage exploration as exhibit guide in key areas of the museum such as the Discovery Zoo, or lead smaller hands on moments with our Toddler Basket and Discovery Table programs. Opportunities to attend training sessions, school programming, and special events will be offered when available.

This is an unpaid internship. Some colleges may offer financial support to interns and/or provide monetary benefits.

Scheduling:

• Internship sessions run for 12 weeks.
• 16 hours per week up to a maximum of 24 hours per week.
• Shifts are 8 hour days from 8:30am-5:00pm with a 30 minute lunch.
• Some shifts may change in response to any special events or requests for assistance.

Requirements:

• Must be at least 18 years old
• Currently enrolled, or seeking enrollment, at the college level.
  • Degree backgrounds in education, early childhood development, the sciences, history, and museum studies are our core areas.
• Submit a complete application and resume for an interview.
• Submit paper work for a background check and photo release.
• Attend museum orientation prior to start.

Core Duties:

• Provide educational and engaging content, answer visitor questions, and ensure visitors leave with a positive and memorable experience.
• Lead daily Science Theater and Do Lab presentations for the public.
• Be an Exhibit Guide in core exhibits within the museum such as Discovery Zoo or Ancient Egypt.
• Lead Discovery Table and Toddler Baskets for short hands on science activities.
• Help track visitor and student attendance for accurate record keeping.
• Complete Lab Safety Training to work with and around chemicals in the labs to prepare and lead programming that uses them.
• Plan, research, and develop a project during your internship. This will be discussed with your supervisor early in your internship.
• Work with and assist the education team in other areas such as school programming, field trips, summer camps, and volunteer support.

Interested applicants should send a resume and cover letter to:

Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
2600 DeWeese Parkway
Dayton, OH 45414

OR Email:
jutterback@boonshoftmuseum.org

Location: Boonshoft Museum of Discovery

Work Hours: 16 to 19 hours per week, some weekend work required | Applications for the Winter Session (January – March) must be received by October 15; Summer Session (June – August) by March 15; Fall Session (September – November) by July 15.

Reports To: Curator of Live Animals

Overview:

• The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is seeking applicants for the Animal Care Internship. Interns work with animal care staff for 10 to 14 weeks during Winter, Summer or Fall Sessions and gain experience in the areas of animal care, record keeping, animal enrichment and interpretation of animal exhibits.
• Internships in the Live Animal Department are non-paid positions and hours worked accumulate as volunteer hours.
• Interns will work between 16 and 19 hours per week with a minimum of 190 hours completed. Schedules will be coordinated with the Curator of Live Animals and will include weekend hours.
• Duties include daily maintenance of the animal exhibits, behind the scenes areas, and visitor spaces. Interns will learn how to present educational programs to Museum visitors.
• Each intern must complete an independent project for the Live Animal Department if completing the externship for credit. The project will be selected with guidance from department curators.

Qualifications:

• Interns must be a currently enrolled in college degree program or have completed a college degree within the past two years.
• Interns must be able to perform basic animal care activities including standing for extended periods, bending, sweeping and lifting up to 50 pounds.
• Interns must be able to tolerate the presence of animal fur, feathers, and bedding.

Interested applicants should send a resume and cover letter to:

Associate Curator of Live Animals
Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
2600 DeWeese Parkway
Dayton, OH 45414

Email: ltoth@boonshoftmuseum.org

Applications for the Winter Session (January – March) must be received by October 15; Summer Session (June – August) by March 15; Fall Session (September – November) by July 15.

The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums and houses a diverse collection of over 125 animals.

POSITION: Animal Behavior Internship
LOCATION: Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, Dayton, Ohio
WORK HOURS: 8 hours per week
REPORTS TO: Curator of Live Animals

The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is seeking applicants for the Animal Behavior Internship. Interns work with animal care staff for 12 weeks during Winter, Summer or Fall Sessions and gain experience in animal psychology.

The Animal Behavior Internship is focused on gaining an understanding of “why animals do the thing.” Interns will learn about animal welfare, animal behavior, animal enrichment, and animal training. These four categories help us understand how to improve the lives of animals under human care. Each category has an associated project our intern is to complete to gain an understanding of how animal behavior is measured and understood.

This internship is focused on animal behavior rather than animal husbandry. Interns will not be expected to participate in cleaning habitats or other regular cleaning tasks. Interns will be expected to read scientific articles, stand for long periods of time conducting observational data, and complete research and paperwork pertinent to our animals.

By gaining an understanding of how our animals are spending their time and how they interact with their environment, interns will be providing us with invaluable insight into their lives.

Qualifications

Interns must be currently enrolled in a college degree program or have completed a college degree within the past two years.

Interns must be able to tolerate the presence of animal fur, feathers and bedding.

Interested applicants should send a resume and cover letter to Associate Curator of Live Animals, Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, 2600 DeWeese Parkway, Dayton, OH 45414 or LToth@boonshoftmuseum.org

Applications for the Winter Session (mid-January through April) must be received by October 15; Summer Session (June through August) by March 15; Fall Session (September through November) by July 15.

The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums and houses a diverse collection of over 125 animals

Position: Animal Interpretive Internship – Fall Session (mid-August – November)

Location: Boonshoft Museum of Discovery

Work Hours: 16 hours per week, some weekend work may be required | Applications for the Fall Session (September – November) by July 15.

Reports To: Curator of Live Animals

Overview:

The Animal Interpretive Internship is focused on facilitating students’ interpretive skills and animal ambassador handling techniques. This internship provides interns a unique opportunity to become involved with the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery’s educational efforts on-site, off-site, and at special events. Participants will join a multidiscipline team and collaborate with Education and Live Animals Department team members throughout their internship. In doing so, Interns will gain experiences with established professionals, mentors, and new skills. These skills include, but are not limited to; safe animal handling techniques, public speaking, foundational interpretation skills, collaborative programming, informal education experiences, record keeping, and familiarity in guest relations. The animal ambassador collection includes birds, reptiles, mammals, arthropods, and amphibians. This internship is focused on interpretation utilizing live animals rather than animal husbandry.

• Internships in the Live Animal Department are non-paid positions and hours worked accumulate as volunteer hours. Housing is not provided. 
• Interns will work 16 hours per week.
• Schedules will be coordinated with the Curator of Live Animals and Director of Education and may include weekend hours.

Qualifications:

• Interns must be a currently enrolled in college degree program or have completed a college degree within the past two years.
• Interns will be expected to read scientific articles, stand for long periods of time and complete paperwork pertinent to our animals.
• Interns must be able to tolerate the presence of animal fur, feathers, and bedding.

Interested applicants should send a resume and cover letter to:

Associate Curator of Live Animals
Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
2600 DeWeese Parkway
Dayton, OH 45414

OR Email:
ltoth@boonshoftmuseum.org

Applications for the Winter Session (January – March) must be received by October 15; Summer Session (June – August) by March 15; Fall Session (September – November) by July 15.

The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums and houses a diverse collection of over 125 animals