Architectural Content Specialist

Job Title:

Architectural Content Specialist

Location:

Chicago Architecture Center Department:
Programs Salary Range: $85,000.00 - $95,000.00

Reports To:

Chief Program OfficerFLSA Status:
Full Time Exempt

Job Summary:

The Architectural Content Specialist serves as the Chicago Architecture Center's (CAC) subject matter expert on Chicago architecture, architectural history, and interpretive content. This position leads the development, governance, and strategic application of architectural content across CAC's tours, exhibitions, educational programming, volunteer training, public programs, marketing initiatives, and institutional communications.

Working collaboratively across departments, the Architectural Content Specialist establishes content standards, develops interpretive guidelines, and ensures the accuracy, consistency, and accessibility of architectural storytelling. Through research, writing, training, public speaking, and cross-functional partnership, this role translates complex architectural concepts into engaging experiences that connect diverse audiences with Chicago's built environment, architectural legacy, and contemporary design.

The Architectural Content Specialist partners closely with teams supporting CAC's volunteer community, learning programs, exhibitions, marketing, development, and executive leadership to align content strategy with organizational priorities, strengthen interpretive excellence, and advance CAC's mission as a leading resource for architecture education and engagement.

Duties and responsibilities

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Actively identify, assess, and address needs within the tour, exhibits, and programs related to architectural history and emerging projects in the City of Chicago.

Attends and contributes to relevant Volunteer Community committee meetings and docent trainings, representing CAC staff and organizational values.

Serves as a primary authority on Chicago architecture and interpretive tour standards, with responsibility for establishing content guidelines, reviewing materials for accuracy, and advising internal stakeholders.

Collaborates with the Public Programs team in the production of programs focused on Chicago’s architectural legacy and future in relationship to CAC’s audience segments and program offerings.

Supports the Learning department in review and implementation of content, curricula, and trainings related to architectural history for teachers and students.

Collaborates with Exhibits and associated partners in the development of a permanent exhibition experience related to Chicago’s architectural legacy, including interpretive text, artifact and image sourcing, and Volunteer Community alignment.

Acts as a content resource for Exhibits and contributes to interpretive text, including script copy, labels, and image sourcing.

Assists Marketing in delivering accurate and engaging content related to Chicago architecture including the Architecture Encyclopedia and Buildings of Chicago online databases and social media  partnership with Marketing, answers media and press inquiries related to Chicago architectural history and supports Executive leadership by developing talking points, ensuring content accuracy, and providing historical context related to Chicago’s built environment in preparation for media interviews.

Provides subject matter expertise, research, and strategic content support to internal teams including Development, Civics, and Executive Leadership to advance institutional priorities and external engagement.

Improves workflows related to architectural content development, review, and delivery across departments.

Improves processes, tools, and content governance practices to ensure alignment, quality control, and timely delivery of relevant content across CAC initiatives.

Skills and Qualifications Education Master 's degree in Architecture, Historic Preservation, Architectural History, Urban Planning, or related field preferred.

Experience Five or more years developing architectural or cultural content.

Experience in museums, cultural institutions,…