Play and Learning Educator

Mission: The Children’s Museum of South Dakota sparks imagination and learning for all children and their grown-ups through play, creativity, and discovery.  

Vision: CMSD seeks to transform the world by inspiring generations to love learning and to believe that life is full of possibilities.  

Position Timeline:  Accepting applications through March 5.  Tentative start date for the position is May 2025.

Job Summary:

Our Play and Learning Educator guides and facilitates educational, interactive play that enhances the learning experience for our guests.  This position promotes a welcoming, fun, and inclusive learning environment for all visitors, encouraging participation and engagement in Museum exhibits and programs.  This role engages with children and their grown-ups to inspire creativity, discovery, and curiosity across all Museum experiences. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare and facilitate age-appropriate educational programming and lead interactive learning experiences that align with the Museum’s values and learning framework, adapting to meet the needs of diverse audiences.
  
• Actively engage children and all visitors in interactive, hands-on play and learning experiences on the Museum floor and within our exhibits.
• Facilitate memorable, engaging experiences for groups, such as field trips, birthday parties, and community organizations.
• Foster trusting relationships with program participants and their grown-ups, with intentional interaction before, during, and after program offerings to nurture connections.
• Participate in observation, documentation, and reflection of Museum programs and learning experiences, gathering feedback for development, improvements, and research.
  
• Assist in the delivery of off-site programs and outreach experiences that extend the Museum’s impact beyond its walls.
• Prepare learning environment, including materials, setting up program spaces, and maintaining supplies and equipment.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in education or related field is required.
• At least 3 years prior experience in related role is required.
• Demonstrated experience and understanding of how young children learn through hands-on play and familiarity in creating interactive learning environments. Experience with a Reggio-inspired philosophy is recommended, but not required.
• Shows a passion for and commitment to the Museum’s mission, vision, and values.
• Communicates effectively and interacts genuinely with people of all backgrounds, abilities, and life experiences. 
• Team player with ability to collaborate and cooperate.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organization and ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.

What We Offer:

• Starting compensation range of at least $23.00 per hour and will be evaluated commensurate with experience and qualifications.  This is a non-exempt role.
• Comprehensive benefit package includes health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement benefits, and paid time off. Additional benefits include an Association of Children’s Museums (ACM) Reciprocal Membership, discount onsite at Café Coteau and Play Central Toys and Books, professional and career development, and a playful environment.

Work Environment:

• This role requires an active, hands-on approach, including standing for extended periods, engaging with guests throughout the Museum, and performing tasks that involve lifting, bending, and moving objects to ensure a vibrant, engaging, and safe environment for our visitors.
• This role must be completed onsite and some flexible scheduling options may be available.
• Scheduled shifts include evenings, weekends, and some holidays.
• Full-time commitment requires a minimum of 38 hours per week.
• This position reports to our Education Manager.

How to Apply:

Please complete our online application which will require a resume of past work experience.

The Children’s Museum of South Dakota celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment where employees of all race, color, religion, marital status, age, gender, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, and veteran status feel welcome.

Salary : $23