STEAM Educator & Curriculum Developer

The STEAM Educator and Curriculum Developer will deliver programs integrating areas of science, technology, engineering, arts and math. These programs will take place off-site and on-site for students, teachers, families, public visitors, and members across the Lehigh Valley and beyond. Specific responsibilities include developing and delivering classroom programs, after school programs, science celebrations, summer learning programs, and science shows. The Educator works closely with part time staff, interns, and volunteers as a mentor and trainer, always demonstrating quality and excellence in their own work, and setting an example for other team members. The Educator delivers exemplary customer service and effectively collaborates with community partners. Creativity, complex problem solving, initiative, and a productive relationship with team members are key to the Educator’s success. The flexible schedule includes some evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Specific Job Responsibilities

Program Delivery (50%):

• Deliver programs with a special focus on integrating areas of science, technology, engineering, arts and math as scheduled.
• Demonstrate and work towards mastery of effective presentation techniques, inquiry-based pedagogy, project-based learning, design thinking, maker education, science content, and exemplary customer service.
• Learn the program you will be teaching and be able to answer questions about the topic (training materials will be provided)
• Drive to and from the site where your program will take place, occasionally using a company vehicle (travel is usually within 25 miles of Da Vinci Science Center, but occasionally travel is between 25 and 150 miles from Da Vinci Science Center). Travel in personal vehicles is reimbursed at the then current federal IRS mileage rate.
• Arrive at the site on time, with a strict adherence to program punctuality
• Set up classroom and teach educational programs
• Exhibit positive youth development in classroom management strategies that are appropriate to the physical, social, and emotional development of diverse guests
• Follow the established schedule and program facilitation guides for the daily events
• Actively engage all guests in learning experiences
• Represent the science center professionally to school and community contacts
• Incorporate feedback into future lessons
• Clean classrooms after each program (put supplies away, wash goggles, wipe tables, sweep floor if needed)
• Carry totes with materials (up to 50 pounds) from place to place
• Proactively provide guests with information about the Center and its offerings
• Deliver scheduled on-site programs including member nights, summer camps, public programs, and more as needed.
  
  

Program Development and Training (40%):

• Lead teams to develop and implement lessons that are engaging and relevant to participants aligned to Next Generation Science Standards and PA STEELS Standards
• Seek new and innovative programs, strategies, and engaging teaching styles.
• Develop programs that consider the diverse needs of learners.
• Attend and actively participate in training sessions to understand and implement the Da Vinci Science Center’s inquiry-based approach, next generation science teaching and learning, and effective presentation techniques.
• Assist in the development of demonstrations, activities, media, and other program content.
• Train volunteers, trainers, and staff on effective program techniques. Topics may include but are not limited to next-generation science teaching and exemplary customer service.
• Train volunteers, trainers, and staff in new education programming such as Classroom Programs, Science Celebrations, and Live Science Shows.
  
  

Administrative (10%):

• Purchase materials, follow all budget and finance guidelines and policies.
• Make safety a priority. Complete all safety training and follow all safety guidelines. Ensure customers follow safety routines and wear personal protective equipment. Alert management of any safety issues.
• Provide positive interactions with teachers, students, and other customers. Deliver memorable programs. Demonstrate cultural competency and welcome all customers. Continuously improve Da Vinci Science Center products.
• Assist with recruiting staff, volunteers, and interns. Participate in coaching staff, supporting a culture of feedback, innovation, and growth.
• Provide any requested feedback about programs including reflection forms.
• Participate in evaluation of the impact of programs as needed. Incorporate feedback into future programs.
• Promote exemplary communication by actively participating in STEAM team meetings and represent the STEAM team in other cross departmental teams.
• Participate in future planning and development of new program initiatives.
• Support the Science Center’s mission and values statement, support the mission to bring science to life and lives to science, and display a consistent commitment to fostering a respectful and inclusive workplace by treating all colleagues, clients, and stakeholders with dignity, actively listening to diverse perspectives, and contributing to a culture of fairness, empathy, and collaboration.
• Other duties as assigned.
  
  

Qualifications

• Minimum of three years’ experience in a similar education environment or experience working with the public and with children of all ages.
• Experience teaching STEAM and training educators on STEAM teaching required.
• Experience developing curricula for traveling science programs preferred.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, and Publisher) required.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Highly organized and self-motivated individual.