Part-Time STEM Presenter - Animal Programs

The Role   
Liberty Science Center (LSC) is seeking a part-time STEM Presenter of Animal Programs to enhance the learning experience of Liberty Science Center guests by facilitating the exploration of exhibits and delivering educational programs and activities specifically about the LSC’s animal collection.  The STEM Presenter of Animal Programs' primary areas of focus will be: (1) Presenting engaging animal-related programs and demonstrations to a varied audience, (2) Serving as an engaging and informative presence for guests within the animal-related galleries, and (3) Working with other members of the School and Public Program team, as well as Animal Husbandry staff, to collaborate in the creation of new STEM content for our live animal collection.

The STEM Presenter of Animal Programs will report to the Sr. Director of School and Public Programs, and be an accountable and engaged participant in the broader STEM Education and LSC community.

What You’ll Bring
You have a strong interest in animals of all kinds, ecology, wildlife conversation, and a passion for informal education. You are comfortable handling a wide range of invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, birds, marine species, and small mammals.  You have strong public speaking skills and can present in front of diverse crowds. Your innovation and creative thinking enhance the world of informal museum education. You strive to ideate new ways to engage the public in the ever-converging worlds of biodiversity, environmental science, and conservation. While a strong independent worker, you possess powerful collaborative skills and recognize that the best results come from strong teamwork.

What You’ll Do
The STEM Presenter of Animal Programs will:

1. Provide daily, animal-related experiences for guests of all ages, including live animal demonstrations and touch tank operations onsite and occasionally offsite
2. Assist with the development of new animal-related activities and programs as needed
3. Ensure the continued health of animals used in programs and provide high guest safety
4. Maintain a thorough knowledge of animal handling techniques and safety protocols
5. Consistently take part in regular animal training sessions under the direction of the Animal Programs Coordinator and Animal Husbandry staff
6. Maintain overall cleanliness and organization of animal exhibit and presentation areas, including the set and breakdown of equipment for programs
7. Assist with non-animal Public Programs demonstrations as needed
8. Serve as an informational resource for guests, keeping up-to-date on all of LSC’s exhibitions, films, and programmatic offerings
9. Ensure that all programs are performed in a manner that is consistent with LSC’s approach to science communication, utilizing a theatrical approach to reach across different age groups and abilities
10. Work with other members of the Public Programs team to develop and implement new demonstrations and programs and additional science content for existing programs as needed
11. Other duties and responsibilities as assigned

Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

1. Extensive animal-handling experience
2. Excellent communication skills, including strong public speaking and performance skills
3. Skilled at speaking to a varied audience of different ages, backgrounds, and abilities
4. Organization/time management skills
5. Ability to work collaboratively with supervisor and peers
6. Teamwork orientation, as well as the ability to work independently

Preferred Qualifications and Experience

1. Pursuing a college degree in a science field or a BA/BS in a field of science, such as zoology, biology, or environmental science
2. Experience handling a wide variety of animals, including but not limited to invertebrates, reptiles, marine animals, and small mammals
3. 1 years of experience working in informal education

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

1. Applicant must provide a negative TB test yearly

Classification and Schedule
This part-time, non-exempt position is expected to be scheduled up to 28 hours per week. Hours will vary based on business demand. The ability to work weekends and occasional evenings is a must! All LSC employees must be able to work a flexible schedule that could include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and/or holidays as business needs require.

Compensation & Benefits
The rate for this position is $19.50 per hour Liberty Science Center also provides perks for all eligible part-time employees, including:

1. Paid vacation time
2. Paid sick time
3. A LSC Membership (for two adults four children)
4. 25% discount in LSC’s gift shop
5. 15% discount in LSC’s café
6. Free onsite parking

​​​​Physical Demands
The STEM Presenter of Animal Programs will operate standard office equipment, such as a computer, printer, and phone. In addition, the STEM Presenter will carry and use a two-way radio. The majority of work takes place on the museum floors. During those times, the STEM Presenter of Animal Programs will stand/walk for long periods and maneuver through crowds with moderate to high noise levels. The ability to lift 35 lbs. will be necessary. The STEM Presenter will also be exposed to loud sounds, nuts, and legumes.

LSC’s Work Culture at a Glimpse
LSC prides itself on fostering a workplace culture that enables all employees to experience a sense of pleasure, passion, and purpose. We believe in embracing and driving change, inspiring fun and learning, and creating a positive and family-friendly team spirit. Our differences as individuals (race, gender, age, cultural heritage, physical ability, education, and lifestyle) are an asset and contribute to our ability to drive innovation. Lastly, at the heart of our work culture is the commitment to delivering a “wow factor” through our exceptional customer service to our guests and one another.

Our Environment
Liberty Science Center is located in a beautiful waterfront state park in Jersey City, New Jersey. Not only is Jersey City easy to get to from any points in Northern NJ and Manhattan, but it also holds the title of the most diverse city in the United States. Employees have access to free parking, the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail, and the NJ Path train. In addition, all employees have access to a terrace with stunning NYC views.

Travel
This position requires minimal travel, usually limited to the tri-state area.

___________________
Liberty Science Center is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive and innovative environment with the best employees. We, therefore, provide employment opportunities without regard to age, race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, disability, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, military service, marital status, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law. If there are preparations we can make to help ensure you have a comfortable and positive interview experience, please let us know.

• To find out more, visit lsc.org or follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter.

Salary : $20