Job Announcement – Spark!Lab Lead Facilitator

Opens February 24, 2015; applications must be received by 5:00 p.m. EDT on March 10, 2015.

Expected start date is May 14, 2015.

This position is located in the Jerome and Dorothy Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and

Innovation (Lemelson Center) at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History (NMAH) in

Washington, DC under the direct supervision of the Interpretive Exhibit Manager. The Lead Facilitator is

responsible for delivering compelling visitor experiences in Spark!Lab, a hands-on invention space for

children and families, and assisting other Spark!Lab staff in developing and implementing evaluation of

the Spark!Lab experience.

The Lemelson Center is dedicated to exploring invention in history and encouraging inventive creativity in

1. Work cooperatively with the staff and volunteers to present educational programs in Spark!Lab for

general Museum visitors, specifically children and families, ensuring a positive Spark!Lab experience

by greeting visitors; engaging visitors through conversation, inquiry and experimentation; helping to

present facilitated invention challenges and offering assistance and encouragement at self-directed

2. Assist with daily operations to open, operate, and close Spark!Lab, according to procedures,

performing routine maintenance, including inspecting for damaged or missing materials, replenishing

supplies, keeping equipment cleaned and organized, and reporting problems appropriately.

3. Assist with the planning, development and implementation of informal and formal evaluation of for

4. Generally assist with other Lemelson Center activities as requested

The best qualified applicants will have experience working in a hands-on education space, with a variety

of personalities, learning styles, and age groups. Experience with evaluative techniques and interpretation

of data is helpful. The position will require frequent walking, bending, standing and moderate lifting.

This is a part-time, Trust (non-Federal) position at IS-5, Step 1. The hourly rate is $16.66, with

benefits. Required schedule includes weekends and some holidays. To apply, please submit by email a

cover letter, resume by 5:00 p.m. EDT on March 10, 2015:

Interpretive Exhibit Manager

Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and Innovation

National Museum of American History, Smithsonian

14th Street and Constitution Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20013-7012

fehrenbach@si.edu – Email

The Smithsonian is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.  Women, minorities,

people with disabilities, and candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.