SUMMARY STATEMENT:

The Engineering Education Associate will facilitate programs to engage large numbers of museum visitors (often 150 guests per hour or more) in activities and interpretations presenting engineering design, “maker” skills, and computational thinking. The Engineering Education Associate will help maintain materials and spaces, and assist with the ongoing professional development for part-time staff and volunteers – developing and delivering briefings, and help develop innovative activities and experiences for introducing museum guests to technologies in our designed world.
RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Facilitate engineering and computational thinking activities, interpretations and presentations for Tech Studio (up to 3-5 hours working directly with the public daily)
• Develop 4-9 briefings for Tech Studio volunteers per year
• Deliver 3-5 briefing sessions for Tech Studio volunteers per week.
• Develop and implement 3-5 new engineering and design-based learning activities/workshops annually.
• Assist in the training of 20-30 volunteers and 2-6 part time staff annually.
• Work with other museum departments to organize and coordinate continuing research on engineering and computational thinking education in informal environments. (1-2 research efforts per year)
• In conjunction with the Program Manager and Coordinator, supervise programs and mentor staff to ensure the proper presentation of programs and activities (daily programs with 20-30 volunteers per week)
• Work one weekend day per week and some holidays as agreed on with Program Manager.

WORK SCHEDULE:

This position is full- time, 40 hours per week, Tuesday-Saturday or Sunday-Thursday. One weekend day and some holidays required.
REPORTS TO:

Manager, Informal and Engineering Computer Science Learning
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• One (1) year or more of Science and technology education experience.
• Bachelors of Science or Arts degree preferred.
• Demonstrated communication skills (verbal/oratory and written).
• Proven ability to provide customer service in a high volume environment as well as comfort working in large groups.
• Demonstrated proficiency in science and technology education.
• Demonstrated ability to successfully manage multiple tasks simultaneously, paying close attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to work both independently and in collaboration with a team (1 – 8).

STARTING SALARY:

Non-Exempt (Hourly).
BENEFITS:

Benefits for full-time, non-exempt (hourly) staff include: free parking, T accessibility, 15 vacation days, 12 holidays, 5-10 sick days, medical, dental, and vision insurance, short- and long-term disability, life insurance, retirement and savings plan, health care/dependent care flex spending plan, employee discounts, employee referral program, tuition assistance, professional development, direct deposit, free admission, free Duck Tours, discounted movie passes, and much more!
The Museum of Science is fully committed to Equal Employment Opportunity and to attracting, retaining, developing and promoting the most qualified employees without regard to their race, gender, color, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, citizenship status, veteran status, or any other characteristic prohibited by federal, state or local law. We are dedicated to providing a work environment free from discrimination and harassment, and where employees are treated with respect and dignity.
No phone inquiries, please. Qualified applicants will be contacted within two to four weeks of initial application.

Title:   Overnight Program Instructor                   Department:  Education: Night Journeys

Effective Date:  September 2017                     Reports to: Overnight Program Coordinator

Status: Hourly/ Non-Exempt; Paid training; Minimum of two shifts per month expected during the busy season from January to May on Thursday, Friday, or Saturday nights from 5:15 pm to 8:45 am; Overnight season runs from September through June

Position Summary:

The EcoTarium, A Museum of Science & Nature, seeks creative and engaging program instructors to assist in delivering interpretative programs for Night Journeys (overnight programs). Programming is on a variety of natural and physical science topics and takes place on the museum floor, in classroom settings, in our digital planetarium, and outdoors on our 55-acre site. Teaching is primarily through hands-on and inquiry-based methods encouraging exploration and self-directed learning.

Candidates must enjoy working with families and children, possess a keen interest in science, and be committed to ongoing growth and learning in the fields of science and education. Participation is required for three evenings of paid training to become familiar with workplace policies, science and nature content, program materials, and teaching skills for various audiences. Separate paid animal-handling training with Wildlife staff is also required.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 18 years of age and completed one year of college or equivalent experience
• Background in physical science, astronomy, biology, education or related fields preferred
• Demonstrated previous experience in formal, informal, inquiry-based and/or experiential learning desirable
• Comfort with performance and/or public speaking, a flair for public presentation
• Good customer service and interpersonal skills
• Ability to multi-task and manage time efficiently
• Creative individual with ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, be flexible and highly dependable
• Interest in and/or experience working with diverse audiences
• Able to navigate the building and grounds under any weather conditions, stay stationary for long periods of time, work in a highly sensory and stimulating work environment due to constant interaction with guests
• An ability to move program equipment and supplies up to 40 lbs desirable
• Pass CORI/ SORI background checks according to EcoTarium’s guidelines

Responsibilities:

• Work as part of a team to provide an exceptional visitor experience and deliver museum-quality, hands-on educational programming on a variety of science and nature topics through formal and informal contacts
• Conduct outdoor programming and navigate trails in all types of weather conditions
• Prepare, tidy, and maintain museum spaces and program materials including technical equipment and other supplies
• Report any issues with programming, guests, staff, wildlife, or exhibits to Senior Overnight Program Instructor and participate in preparation meetings and evening staff debriefs
• Take initiative in problem solving, leading programs, and fostering effective interactions between guests and staff
• Present a positive attitude and engender a sense of fun for guests where appropriate

• Handle animals for use in programs
• Uniform/dress code required

Non-Essential Functions:

• Other duties as assigned

Please send cover letter, resume and list of three references to: Human Resources, Attn: Overnight Program Instructor Search, EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester, MA  01604 or email:  resume@ecotarium.org with “Overnight Program Instructor Search” in the subject line.

Review begins September 15, 2017, applications accepted until position is filled.

AA/EOE

www.ecotarium.org