SPARK!LAB EDUCATOR

The part-time, 20-hour position of Spark!Lab Educator is available immediately. This position reports to the STEM Education Coordinator.

Position Summary:

This position will be responsible for maintaining weekend public operations of the Smithsonian Spark!Lab in the Springfield Science Museum.  Primary duties will include staffing the Spark!Lab and assisting with the development of invention-based activities and programs during weekend public hours.

Responsibilities:

Essential functions of the position include but are not limited to the following:

The Spark!Lab educator will staff The Smithsonian Spark!Lab during weekend public hours and assist with the development of invention and science-based educational activities to be offered in the space. The educator will create a welcoming environment for a diverse range of museum visitors; assist visitors in learning about the activities; and lead interactions with visitors that emphasize the mission of Spark!Lab.

Statistics on visitation and program participation must be kept, and materials must be properly maintained. The educator will assist with the training and supervision of interns and volunteers who work in the space on the weekends. On the second Sunday of the month, the educator will lead programming during the designated Sensory Friendly Sundays time of 9-11 am.  Additionally, the educator will work on the first Wednesday of each month, supporting the Museums’ free admission day.

Developing an in-depth knowledge of the museum collection is required. Occasionally, the educator may assist with leading school groups.  The educator will perform other similar duties as responsibility or necessity dictates, or as requested by supervisor.

Qualifications include, but are not necessarily limited to:

An Associate’s degree is preferred, and experience in the fields of early education, museum education, or STEM education is required. Bi-lingual English/Spanish preferred. Candidate must be dependable, energetic, creative, and enjoy working with children and families.  The position requires lifting up to 30 pounds. The selected candidate must pass a CORI check. 

This part-time, 20 hour per week position is not eligible for health and other insurance related benefits; however, the incumbent will receive paid vacation, holiday, sick and personal time.  The schedule is as follows: Fridays 9:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Saturdays 9:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.; and Sundays 10:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.  Occasionally, the educator will be asked to shift assigned hours due to staffing needs and other special events, such as Sensory Friendly Sundays and First Free Wednesday.

This position offers the following benefits:

·         Generous paid time off

·         401(k) retirement plan

·         Family Membership to the Springfield Museums

·         Generous discounts for Museum School courses

·         Museum Store discount

·         Free parking

Interested candidates should provide a cover letter and resume to sadan@springfieldmuseums.org by

Monday, November 08, 2024.

An Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer, The Springfield Museums is committed to developing and sustaining a diverse staff to further the organization’s mission.  Women and candidates from historically underrepresented groups are especially encouraged to apply.