Performing Arts Educator 1

Performing Arts Educator 1

The Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County (NHMLAC) include the Natural History Museum in Exposition Park, La Brea Tar Pits in Hancock Park, and the William S. Hart Museum in Newhall. They operate under the collective vision to inspire wonder, discovery, and responsibility for our natural and cultural worlds. The museums hold one of the world’s most extensive and valuable collections of natural and cultural history—more than 35 million objects—used for groundbreaking scientific and historical research, and community engagement. From NHM’s opening in 1913 as the very first museum in Los Angeles, the organization has entered an exciting new era of transformation with building projects and campaigns, exhibitions, community outreach and impactful audience engagement.

NHMLAC’s values—adventurous, inclusive, authentic, and intentional—guide our work and visitor experience, committing us to foster a welcoming, safe and respectful workplace environment where innovation and collaboration thrive and every team member can contribute their unique perspectives to advance our mission. NHMLAC seeks candidates who are aligned with our values and priorities, and are passionate about connecting science with the vibrant and diverse communities we serve throughout Los Angeles.

The NHMLAC is seeking a Performing Arts Educator 1 for our Education, Programs, & Community Engagement department.  The Performing Arts Educator 1 works closely with the Manager, Performing Arts to enhance the visitor experience by creating, supporting, and collaborating on various Performing Arts educational programs at the Natural History Museum and the La Brea Tar Pits. It is an exciting time as we embark on new journeys of becoming a museum of, for, and with L.A.

Responsibilities for this position include, but are not limited to: 

• Acquires knowledge of the Museum and its programs, cultural, and scientific concepts by becoming familiar with the Museum’s resources, exhibits, collections, and programs, as well as the Museum’s initiatives and policies in support of inclusion, diversity, equity, and access. 
• Supports the Manager, Performing Arts by assisting with in-person and virtual Performing Arts programs which may include performing as an actor or host, and by using some of all of the following: mask, marionette, rod puppets, shadow puppets, and other physical theater and puppetry mediums and work. Performing Arts Educators may also participate in programs that include dance, music, acting, playing instruments, and vocal performance (singing). 
• Supports the Manager of Performing Arts by preparing proposed lesson plans and scripts for Performing Arts programs.
• Provides assistance, facilitation, and support to the Manager of Performing Arts for after school performing arts camps, clubs, and theater programming.
• Assists in the creation of standardized training modules for staff operation of puppets for performance in educational Performing Arts programs.
• Under supervision and direction by the technical team, assists with light craft and fabrication work in the creation of puppets or small scenic elements for performance and in puppet workshops, may also assist with technical duties for performance such as cue calling or lighting.

This position has the following requirements:           

• Bachelor’s Degree in Theater Arts or related field and/or at least 2 years professional experience as a dancer, actor, gymnast, or performing artist with physical and movement-based training. 
• One year of paid or unpaid experience in a formal or informal performing arts education setting, or two years’ experience in an educational setting.
• Confidence presenting in front of large groups and on camera.
• Physical ability to walk with stilts and engage in light gymnastic activities.
• Ability to perform musical material, either through vocal performance or playing an instrument.
• Demonstrated ability to work and collaborate with others on teams, across an organization, and with external audiences, including adults and children.
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills, including strong written and oral communication skills.
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and during school and national holidays.

The NHMLAC is especially interested in candidates whose background and experience have prepared them to contribute to our commitment to engagement and inclusion with culturally diverse audiences in museum and in sciences.

The NHMLAC is seeking applicants who have demonstrated experience and commitment to working with a diverse community. The hourly rate for this position is $24.06 plus excellent benefits. We are currently seeking to fill 1 part-time regular.

A cover letter, current resume, and list of 3-4 references are required for all applicants. Review of applications begins immediately and continues until the position is filled. Interested candidates, please visit www.nhmlac.org/careers-our-museums  and click the link of the position you are interested or go directly to the online application.

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.