Apply by:
January 04, 2015

The EcoTarium, a Museum of Science & Nature, seeks Program Instructors to deliver and facilitate interpretive programs for the general public and school groups. Program Instructors will work both independently and in teams to deliver hand-on interactive programs for the general public and groups of all ages, on subjects including astronomy, ecology, and other earth, physical and life science topics. Instructors will present engaging content in the planetarium, in a classroom, at the Nature Explore Outdoor Exhibit, or on the museum floor. Instructors independently manage smaller groups in the field, and help with group and teacher orientation. Applicants must have a background in education or science, and enjoy working with children. Strong classroom management skills and a costumer service orientated attitude are expected. Experience with inquiry approaches to teaching and public presentation experience is helpful.

Effective Date: December/January for training, calls beginning mid-December 2014 and continuing through June 2015 with a possibility of ongoing on-call shifts. Programs generally run weekday mornings and early afternoons. Weekend shifts and evening hours are occasionally available.                      

Status:  Temporary on call position with option to apply for summer employment.

Responsibilities:

  • Set-up and lead school and public programs on a variety of science topics, including but not limited to environmental science, animal behavior, astronomy, physical science, and more with indoor and outdoor components
  • Utilize hands-on participatory teaching methods
  • Prepare for and actively participate in staff training and meetings
  • Do independent background research on program topics
  • Handle animals for use in programs
  • Provide an exceptional visitor experience through formal and informal contact
  • Conduct programming outdoors in any type of weather
  • Uniform/dress code required

 

 

Qualifications:

  • Background in biology, physical science, education or related fields
  • Strong presentation skills and classroom management skills
  • Demonstrated experience in formal and/or informal teaching
  • Knowledge and experience with inquiry based, experiential learning desirable
  • Excellent interpersonal, organizational and leadership skills
  • Comfort with performance and/or public speaking, a flair for public presentation
  • Interest in and/or experience working with diverse racial/socioeconomic populations
  • Multi-lingual skills a plus
  • Valid driver’s license and/or personal transportation needed
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
  • Ability to work as part of a team
  • Must be flexible and highly dependable
  • Be in good physical condition to meet the physical demands of the position.  Ability to move program equipment/supplies up to 40 lbs, navigate the Tree Canopy Walkway and trails under any weather conditions.  Walking, standing, highly sensory and stimulating work environment due to constant interaction with guests.
  • Pass CORI background checks according to EcoTarium’s guidelines

 

 

 

How To Apply:

Please send cover letter, resume and list of three references to: Human Resources, Attn:  Program Instructor Search, EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester, MA 01604 or

e-mail to:  resume@ecotarium.org with “Program Instructor Search” in the subject line.

Application Review — Immediately

AA/EOE

Apply by:
January 04, 2015

Salary:
Public Programs: Hourly, Non-Exempt; School Programs: $30 for first program each day, $10 for each subsequent program that same day, on-call. Training stipend.

About this Organization:
The EcoTarium is a not-for-profit museum dedicated to inspiring a passion for science and nature in all of its visitors. Set upon 55 scenic acres just two miles from downtown Worcester, Massachusetts, the EcoTarium features interactive exhibits and programming, interpretive nature trails, wildlife habitats, a planetarium, the region’s only tree canopy walkway and a narrow-gauge railroad.