TITLE: Data Collector
DEPARTMENT: Research & Evaluation
REPORTS TO: Director of Research & Evaluation
STATUS: Part-Time, Term, Non-Exempt
DURATION: 1-Year
PAY RATE: $17.05/hr.
LOCATION: Hybrid + Fieldwork
 
POSITION OVERVIEW:   

We are building a Data Collector community to support our Research & Evaluation (R&E) team and contribute to meaningful social science projects. This opportunity is ideal for individuals with an interest or background in social science research who enjoy engaging with diverse groups of people, asking thoughtful questions, and ensuring accuracy in data collection. 

In this role, you’ll go beyond simply gathering numbers—you’ll capture stories, experiences, and insights from a wide range of audiences, including K–12 students, educators, families, community groups, and guests visiting Shedd. Through surveys, interviews, and observations, you will help transform everyday interactions into meaningful data that informs research, programs, and decision-making. 

By joining our community, you’ll gain valuable hands-on research experience in a supportive role—with the flexibility of an as-needed schedule that’s perfect for those seeking opportunities to build skills while balancing other commitments. 

TIME COMMITMENT: This is a project-based, as-needed role supporting the R&E team, offering up to 29 hours of work per week. 
 
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.   

• Collect accurate and timely data through field visits, surveys, interviews, observation, or digital platforms. 
• Lead evaluation activities with K–12 students and youth groups, using effective communication and facilitation techniques.  
• Support preparation of materials for data collection. 
• Record and maintain collected data in paper forms, spreadsheets, or databases. 
• Assist in reviewing and summarizing collected data to identify trends and patterns. 
• Verify data accuracy and resolve any inconsistencies or missing information. 
• Follow data collection protocols and confidentiality guidelines. 
• Support the design and pre-testing of data collection tools (questionnaires, checklists, digital forms). 
• Ensure proper storage, backup, and security of collected information. 
• Collaborate with research teams, supervisors, and stakeholders to meet data needs. 
• Provide progress reports on data collection activities. 
• Travel to assigned locations as required for data collection. 

QUALIFICATIONS: The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. 

Education: High school diploma or equivalent; associate’s or bachelor’s degree in statistics, social sciences, early/K-12 education, or related field preferred. 
 
Experience:   

• 1+ years of experience in social science or community-based research (fieldwork, surveys, interviews, observations, etc.) 
• Strong public speaking and presentation skills with the ability to independently facilitate evaluation activities and maintain student engagement. 
• Experience working with diverse audiences 
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills. 
• Basic computer literacy (MS Office, spreadsheets, and/or data collection apps). 
• Ability to follow instructions and meet deadlines. 
• Ability to travel to research sites that may not be readily accessible by public transportation. 
• Willingness to travel and work flexible hours as needed. 

Preferred Experience:

• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred 

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Combination of office-based and field-based work. 
• Involves traveling to multiple community sites across Chicago 
• Requires adherence to data protection and confidentiality standards. 

BENEFITS OF WORKING AT SHEDD: We offer competitive compensation packages and opportunities for professional growth within our organization. 

• Accrued Paid Time Off
• 401(k)
• Discounted Parking and Public Transit Subsidies
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Wellness program
• Employee discounts
• Employee Tickets 

Reasonable Accommodations: 
Shedd Aquarium is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need reasonable accommodations for any part of the employment process, please email us at jobs@sheddaquarium.org. 

We strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ community, veterans and active duty military, parents, individuals with disabilities, and individuals from all cultural backgrounds to apply. Shedd Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team.