Hospitality OPT Jobs in Illinois
Illinois is one of the strongest states for hospitality F-1 OPT sponsorship, anchored by Chicago's dense concentration of major hotel brands, restaurant groups, and event venues. Employers like Hyatt, Marriott, and Hilton maintain significant operations in the city, and demand for trained hospitality professionals extends to suburban markets and college towns like Champaign-Urbana.
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Get Access To All JobsDepartment: Gantz Family Collections Center
Location: Chicago, IL
Position: Assistant Collections Manager - Insects
FLSA Status: Exempt
Our Mission: Since the 1893 World Columbian Exposition, our organization has aimed to connect people to the natural environment and human history.
Join our team and enjoy a benefits package that truly supports your well-being and lifestyle:
- Comprehensive Health Coverage: Including medical, dental, vision plans, and even pet insurance.
- Financial Security: Life and disability benefits plus a 403(b) savings plan to help you plan for the future.
- Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off, paid sick leave, and paid holidays to ensure you have time to recharge and spend with loved ones.
- Exclusive Perks: Enjoy great employee discounts and complimentary general admission to participating cultural institutions.
We're dedicated to enhancing your life both at work and beyond!
The Field Museum of Natural History has an opening in the Gantz Family Collections Center for an Assistant Collections Manager (Zoology) focused in our Insects Collection. The Museum’s Insects Collection includes worldwide holdings of Arthropoda (excluding Crustacea) and ranks among the top five largest North American entomological collections, with more than 16 million specimens. The collection includes about 5 million pinned insects plus 8.4 million specimens in alcohol or on microscope slides. In addition, there are more than 17,000 partially sorted bulk samples from traps or leaf-litter extractions. The collection is used extensively by Field Museum scientists and U.S. and international research visitors and borrowers, as well as for educational use.
The Assistant Collections Manager reports directly to the Collections Manager(s), or a Collections Head, and is expected to assist with day-to-day aspects of collections care, curation, and operations and is assigned to specific projects as needed.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Oversee the collection during short-term absence of Collections Manager(s)
- Maintain clean, safe, and organized collections storage, work, and lab areas
- Assist with managing, developing, and evaluating digitization efforts, including transcription of catalog and label data, imaging specimens and items, georeferencing, and collections inventory
- Actively participate in museum-wide collections database working group
- Support accurate, timely, and detailed record-keeping related to collections using the Museum’s collections management system and help ensure collections data and metadata are discoverable
- Work with and digitize specialized and complex collections data
- Assist with processing accessions and acquisitions as well as deaccessions
- Assist with management of day-to-day physical and operational aspects of lab and collection, including but not limited to engaging with Facilities and Protection Services
- Understand and implement best practices and community standards for physical and digital collections care and curation
- Track and report metrics of collections use and growth
- Work with Collections Manager(s) to facilitate an active domestic and international loan program and on-site use of the collection by researchers, exhibitions, and visiting communities
- Participate in the Museum’s Integrated Pest Management Program (IPM)
- Assist with collections reorganization efforts and other priority projects in Collections as needed
- Help train, mentor, and work with interns, volunteers, and technicians
- Support the Museum’s public and education programming and promote the mission of the Museum and its fundraising goals
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree and minimum three years’ museum collections experience (or equivalent) (Master’s degree in scientific area related to collection preferred)
- Familiarity with biological collections and research
- Working knowledge of basic taxonomic or identification principles and collections management
- Proficiency with preparing, housing, accessioning, and cataloging of materials
- Ability to work with a variety of preservation chemicals (e.g., ethanol)
- Strong organizational skills necessary to keep collections accessible
- Attention to detail
- Demonstrated proficiency with collections databasing is required
- Familiarity with imaging systems is preferred
- Proficient knowledge of and experience with international and domestic regulations for acquisition and shipment of specimens and requirements for packing loans preferred
- Knowledge of basic word-processing and spreadsheet software required
- Excellent oral and written communication skills in English required
- Ability to read cursive handwriting desired
- Ability to work well with others and independently
- Capacity for problem solving
Application review will begin 1 August 2026. Applications should include a cover letter, CV, and names and contact information for two references.
Supervision Received:
General supervision from the Collection Manager(s), with oversight from the Head of Zoological Collections.
Supervision Exercised:
The position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.
Work Hours:
35 hours each week
Hybrid Eligibility:
Not eligible
Union Representation:
This position is represented by Field Museum Workers’ United, AFSCME Council 31, AFL-CIO.
Pay Range: $49,000 - $52,000 annually
PLEASE READ: When you apply for multiple positions, please make sure to delete your previous resume and cover letter and upload the latest version of your resume and cover letter that is relevant to the job you are applying for, every time you apply. This will help our hiring managers access the correct documents. Please note that removing the resume and cover letter will not delete any previously submitted resumes and cover letters.
The Field Museum is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination, embracing diversity, and fostering mutual respect. We value the unique perspectives each team member brings, which empowers our ability to innovate and overcome challenges.
At the Field Museum, we are dedicated to making our career website and recruitment process accessible to everyone. If you encounter any difficulty when using or accessing our online application, or if you need a reasonable accommodation for completing your application, participating in interviews, or any other part of the selection process, please reach out to us at recruitment@fieldmuseum.org.
Department: Gantz Family Collections Center
Location: Chicago, IL
Position: Assistant Collections Manager - Insects
FLSA Status: Exempt
Our Mission: Since the 1893 World Columbian Exposition, our organization has aimed to connect people to the natural environment and human history.
Join our team and enjoy a benefits package that truly supports your well-being and lifestyle:
- Comprehensive Health Coverage: Including medical, dental, vision plans, and even pet insurance.
- Financial Security: Life and disability benefits plus a 403(b) savings plan to help you plan for the future.
- Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off, paid sick leave, and paid holidays to ensure you have time to recharge and spend with loved ones.
- Exclusive Perks: Enjoy great employee discounts and complimentary general admission to participating cultural institutions.
We're dedicated to enhancing your life both at work and beyond!
The Field Museum of Natural History has an opening in the Gantz Family Collections Center for an Assistant Collections Manager (Zoology) focused in our Insects Collection. The Museum’s Insects Collection includes worldwide holdings of Arthropoda (excluding Crustacea) and ranks among the top five largest North American entomological collections, with more than 16 million specimens. The collection includes about 5 million pinned insects plus 8.4 million specimens in alcohol or on microscope slides. In addition, there are more than 17,000 partially sorted bulk samples from traps or leaf-litter extractions. The collection is used extensively by Field Museum scientists and U.S. and international research visitors and borrowers, as well as for educational use.
The Assistant Collections Manager reports directly to the Collections Manager(s), or a Collections Head, and is expected to assist with day-to-day aspects of collections care, curation, and operations and is assigned to specific projects as needed.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Oversee the collection during short-term absence of Collections Manager(s)
- Maintain clean, safe, and organized collections storage, work, and lab areas
- Assist with managing, developing, and evaluating digitization efforts, including transcription of catalog and label data, imaging specimens and items, georeferencing, and collections inventory
- Actively participate in museum-wide collections database working group
- Support accurate, timely, and detailed record-keeping related to collections using the Museum’s collections management system and help ensure collections data and metadata are discoverable
- Work with and digitize specialized and complex collections data
- Assist with processing accessions and acquisitions as well as deaccessions
- Assist with management of day-to-day physical and operational aspects of lab and collection, including but not limited to engaging with Facilities and Protection Services
- Understand and implement best practices and community standards for physical and digital collections care and curation
- Track and report metrics of collections use and growth
- Work with Collections Manager(s) to facilitate an active domestic and international loan program and on-site use of the collection by researchers, exhibitions, and visiting communities
- Participate in the Museum’s Integrated Pest Management Program (IPM)
- Assist with collections reorganization efforts and other priority projects in Collections as needed
- Help train, mentor, and work with interns, volunteers, and technicians
- Support the Museum’s public and education programming and promote the mission of the Museum and its fundraising goals
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree and minimum three years’ museum collections experience (or equivalent) (Master’s degree in scientific area related to collection preferred)
- Familiarity with biological collections and research
- Working knowledge of basic taxonomic or identification principles and collections management
- Proficiency with preparing, housing, accessioning, and cataloging of materials
- Ability to work with a variety of preservation chemicals (e.g., ethanol)
- Strong organizational skills necessary to keep collections accessible
- Attention to detail
- Demonstrated proficiency with collections databasing is required
- Familiarity with imaging systems is preferred
- Proficient knowledge of and experience with international and domestic regulations for acquisition and shipment of specimens and requirements for packing loans preferred
- Knowledge of basic word-processing and spreadsheet software required
- Excellent oral and written communication skills in English required
- Ability to read cursive handwriting desired
- Ability to work well with others and independently
- Capacity for problem solving
Application review will begin 1 August 2026. Applications should include a cover letter, CV, and names and contact information for two references.
Supervision Received:
General supervision from the Collection Manager(s), with oversight from the Head of Zoological Collections.
Supervision Exercised:
The position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.
Work Hours:
35 hours each week
Hybrid Eligibility:
Not eligible
Union Representation:
This position is represented by Field Museum Workers’ United, AFSCME Council 31, AFL-CIO.
Pay Range: $49,000 - $52,000 annually
PLEASE READ: When you apply for multiple positions, please make sure to delete your previous resume and cover letter and upload the latest version of your resume and cover letter that is relevant to the job you are applying for, every time you apply. This will help our hiring managers access the correct documents. Please note that removing the resume and cover letter will not delete any previously submitted resumes and cover letters.
The Field Museum is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination, embracing diversity, and fostering mutual respect. We value the unique perspectives each team member brings, which empowers our ability to innovate and overcome challenges.
At the Field Museum, we are dedicated to making our career website and recruitment process accessible to everyone. If you encounter any difficulty when using or accessing our online application, or if you need a reasonable accommodation for completing your application, participating in interviews, or any other part of the selection process, please reach out to us at recruitment@fieldmuseum.org.
OPT Hospitality Job Roles in Illinois
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Search Hospitality Jobs in IllinoisHospitality OPT Sponsorship Jobs in Illinois: Frequently Asked Questions
Which hospitality companies sponsor F-1 OPT visas in Illinois?
Chicago-headquartered Hyatt Hotels Corporation is one of the most active hospitality employers for F-1 OPT candidates in Illinois, alongside Marriott and Hilton properties concentrated in the downtown Loop and River North districts. Large hotel management groups, convention center operators, and food service companies contracted to venues like McCormick Place also have a documented pattern of hiring international students on OPT authorization.
Which cities in Illinois have the most hospitality F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs?
Chicago accounts for the overwhelming majority of hospitality OPT positions in Illinois, particularly in neighborhoods like the Loop, River North, and Magnificent Mile where luxury hotels and restaurants concentrate. Rosemont near O'Hare International Airport is a secondary hub with several major hotel properties tied to conference and convention business. Champaign-Urbana sees smaller but consistent hospitality hiring driven by the University of Illinois campus activity.
What types of hospitality roles typically qualify for F-1 OPT sponsorship?
F-1 OPT authorization covers practical training directly related to your field of study, so roles that align with hospitality management, food and beverage operations, hotel administration, event coordination, or tourism degrees are the strongest fit. Positions such as front office coordinator, revenue management analyst, food and beverage manager, and catering operations associate are common in Illinois OPT hiring. Roles should connect clearly to your degree program to satisfy USCIS requirements.
How do I find hospitality F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs in Illinois?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for international students and filters hospitality F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs in Illinois so you're not sorting through listings from employers who won't work with your visa status. You can filter by state, visa type, and industry to surface relevant openings from Chicago hotel groups, restaurant companies, and event management firms. Applying through a targeted platform reduces the time spent on roles where OPT authorization isn't supported.
Are there any Illinois-specific considerations for F-1 OPT sponsorship in hospitality?
Illinois employers in hospitality are generally familiar with OPT work authorization given the state's large international student population from schools like University of Illinois, Northwestern, and DePaul. Chicago's tourism industry operates year-round, which means OPT roles are not strictly seasonal the way they can be in resort-dependent markets. Students on STEM OPT extension should confirm whether their specific hospitality role and employer meet the STEM OPT training plan requirements, as not all hospitality positions qualify under STEM-designated programs.