What are the responsibilities and job description for the Staff Scientist - Chemistry and Physics position at Arizona Science Center?
About Arizona Science Center
Located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona Science Center features more than 300 hands-on exhibits, a state-of-the-art planetarium, a five-story giant-screen theater, live demonstrations, traveling exhibitions, and exciting science programs. The Center offers programs for all ages, including Science on Wheels, CAMP INNOVATION, Teen programs, Professional Development, and Adults’ Night Out: Science With A Twist. Whether onsite or at your location–get ready to embark on a hands-on STEM learning journey you’ll never forget.
Arizona Science Center is an EEO/ADA Reasonable Accommodation Employer.
POSITION SUMMARY
As a Staff Scientist specializing in Chemistry and Physics at the Arizona Science Center, you will be a part of our science communication team, providing engaging and relevant science experiences to people of all ages. You will report directly to the Sr. Scientist of Chemistry and Physics to ensure dynamic, high quality visitor experiences that directly correlate with current and future exhibits, particularly in Chemistry and Physics. You will be supporting the maintenance of our chemical inventory and training team members on safe handling. This position is also committed to fostering an inclusive and enriching learning environment. Your role will help to ensure the organization's continued success in science education and public engagement, while also driving attendance and ensuring guest satisfaction.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:
Visitor Experience and Guest Engagement
- Daily, engage with guests inside the center, offering high quality science communication
- Facilitate Physics and Chemistry based activities to encourage an understanding of current science in a hands-on learning environment
- Stay informed of advances in the field of Chemistry and Physics to provide up to date information to guests
Content Creation and Collaboration:
- Collaborate with internal and external partners to enhance the overall visitor experience for Body Depot, Get Charged Up, Sky Cycle, Good Vibrations and in other areas of Chemistry and Physics
- Work with Sr. Scientist, Chemistry and Physics to utilize innovative approaches to convey complex concepts in Chemistry and Physics that align with new programming and new and future exhibits for guest engagement
- Work with Sr. Scientist, Chemistry and Physics to implement specific themed content and programming, such as National Static Electricity Day, National Inventors Day, National Chemistry Week, etc.
- Continuously assess scientific content to verify its alignment with the latest scientific advancements.
EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent or at least four years of related experience and/or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Experience with standard computer applications; proficient in MS Office skills, including Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
- Experience working in a field of Physics or Chemistry
- Knowledge of Arizona College and Career Ready Standards.
- Knowledge of youth development concepts and strategies.
- Knowledge of student-centered, inquiry-based, experiential learning approaches.
- Skill in effective verbal and written communication and reporting.
- Skill in problem-solving and decision-making.
- Skill in adapting program content and complexity to the ages and interests of youth and adults
- Ability to be relied upon to be on time and prepared for programs.
- Ability to work individually and in a team.
- Ability to work with limited supervision.
- Ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with a variety of stakeholders
- Ability to present effectively with diverse audiences. Ability to manage and engage small and large groups in learning activities.
- Ability to speak clearly and project a voice across a room.
- Ability to engage the audience in higher-level thinking through inquiry-based questioning and discussion.
- Ability to multitask and adjust quickly to changing priorities or organizational needs.
- Experience engaging people in interactive, hands-on, engaging learning experience
- Ability to work evenings and weekends.
- Safely handle, store, and dispose of chemicals by OSHA regulations.
- Implement proper labeling and storage procedures for chemicals to ensure safety and compliance.
- Ability to read, write, and converse in Spanish, Navajo, or Diné preferred.
BENEFITS include, but are not limited to:
- 21 paid days off annually including holidays, birthdays, and vacation days
- 15 days of accrued sick time
- Professional Development Opportunities
- Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
- Life and Long Term Disability insurance
- Employee Assistance Program
- 401(k) retirement plan
- Family membership to Arizona Science Center and 600 Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC)
- Admission Exchange Program - Year-round complimentary admission for the employee and one guest to visit the Phoenix Zoo, Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix Art Museum, Heard Museum, Arizona Museum of Natural History, etc.
