What are the responsibilities and job description for the Summer Enrichment Instructor position at Rhode Island Computer Museum?
About RICM: The Rhode Island Computer Museum (RICM) is a 501(c)(3) non- profit organization that is committed to procuring and preserving items that relate to our rich computer history. Our extensive collection of vintage computers allows members of the public to connect with the past, appreciate the roots of the digital age, and recognize the profound impact that computers have had on society. Our commitment to education lies at the heart of our endeavors, as we strive to provide enriching experiences that foster a deeper understanding of science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM).
Beyond preservation, the Rhode Island Computer Museum (RICM) is dedicated to offering a diverse assortment of interactive programs that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and technological literacy. Our enrichment programs provide opportunities for students to tinker, build, explore, and have lots of fun. RICM has an extensive catalog of different programs, which address subjects such as 3D modeling, 2D animation, block coding, arts and crafts, and much more.
The Rhode Island Computer Museum (RICM) offers in-person enrichment programming at recreation centers, schools, and libraries across Rhode Island and eastern Massachusetts. We provide after-school classes, school vacation camps, and workshops to students in grades 3-8.
Job Overview: Are you passionate about inspiring children and helping them succeed? Do you want to be a positive role model that encourages a love of learning? The Rhode Island Computer Museum (RICM) is looking for a freelance Summer Enrichment Instructor who will play a pivotal role in bringing an assortment of STEAM-oriented camps to communities throughout Greater Boston. The communities that RICM will serve in the summer of 2026 include Newton, Concord, and Burlington.
The Summer Enrichment Instructor will teach groups of four to fifteen elementary or middle school-aged students with an existing, established curriculum. We will also provide you with the necessary training and equipment so that you are adequately prepared to deliver an exciting and dynamic learning experience!
Time Commitments:
- School vacation camps occur during summer vacation, from late June through late August. Camps convene for 3 hours per day, for a total of five consecutive days. They are half-day camps, and occur within the morning window of 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM or the afternoon window of 12:30 PM-3:30 PM.
- Preliminary setup is where preparations are made prior to camp getting underway. This is when equipment is unloaded, computing devices are set up at their respective table places, connected to the WiFi network, and charged, and curricular materials are reviewed. Setup lasts for a total of 20-30 minutes.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Prepare and deliver high-quality instruction for all camp sessions utilizing RICM’s curricula of STEAM-oriented topics.
- Maintain a comfortable, supportive, inclusive learning environment, where students can excel.
- Diligently record student attendance as camp progresses.
- Handle RICM's inventory of supplies that will foster student learning, which includes portable technologies such as projection systems, Chromebooks, laptops, charging cables, and mice, or crafting materials such as paper, scissors, clay, etc. Inventory is transported in wheeled utility carts or plastic storage containers.
- Assist or substitute for other instructors as needed.
An ideal candidate will:
- Have a background preferably in the fields of science, math, art / design, video game development, animation, 3D modeling / 3D printing, technology, computer science, and / or education. College undergraduate or graduate students actively pursuing a degree in these fields are encouraged to apply. We happily welcome retired teachers who are searching for a flexible opportunity and wish to keep their teaching skills sharp!
- Have previous experience working with elementary and / or middle school-aged children as a teacher, instructional coach, seasonal counselor, tutor, or similar role involving direct child care.
- Have the ability to lift objects weighing approximately 20 to 30 pounds.
- Have credentials with issuing CPR and / or first aid. This is a plus, but is not a firm requirement.
Requirements:
- A computer with a reliable, high-speed Internet connection, webcam, and microphone for accessing teaching materials and attending professional development training sessions that will be held virtually.
- A valid, non-expired driver’s license.
- Have access to a vehicle, to transport yourself to enrichment programs held on-site at recreation centers or schools. The communities where RICM will be delivering its summer programs in 2026 include Newton, Concord, and Burlington.
- The ability to work a flexible schedule that includes weekday mornings and afternoons, from Monday through Friday. Infrequent weekends may be required for virtual professional development trainings.
- Be able to successfully pass Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) and Sexual Offender Record Information (SORI) background checks.
Compensation: The pay for this position is $32 per hour as a lead instructor and $25 per hour as an assistant instructor. One assumes the designation of assistant instructor during the onboarding period / training, and in instances where a fellow RICM instructor requires additional support. At times, our programs may have extremely high enrollment numbers and require two RICM instructors to be present in order to fulfill an appropriate student-to-instructor ratio.
Pay: $25.00 - $32.00 per hour
Application Question(s):
- Can you confirm that you are capable of teaching on weekday mornings, within the approximate window of 8:30 AM-12:00 PM?
- Can you confirm that you are capable of teaching on weekday afternoons, within the approximate window of 12:00 PM-3:30 PM?
- Do you have access to a vehicle in order to transport yourself and equipment / supplies to recreation department buildings and schools?
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Required)
Experience:
- Teaching: 1 year (Required)
License/Certification:
- Driver's License (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $25 - $32