Camp J Stem Specialist

STEM Specialist

COMPANY: Tampa JCCs & Federation
JOB TITLE: STEM Specialist
REPORTS TO: Camp Director
LOCATION: 522 N Howard Avenue, Tampa, FL 33606 (Shanna & Bryan Glazer JCC)
EMPLOYMENT TYPE: Variable
STATUS: Hourly; Non-Exempt
HOURS: Variable
COMPENSATION: Paid biweekly

SUMMARY: The STEM Specialist is a key part of our Summer Camp Program. We are looking for a person to create, plan, and implement hands-on learning activities that integrate STEM concepts. This specialist will create lesson plans for enriching activities for all campers— ages 5-13 (kindergarten through middle school). Specialists should encourage campers to explore their confidence while experiencing many new and exciting challenges and activities.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Commit to dates agreed upon with Camp Director (typically a 1, 2 or 3 week commitment)
• Ensure campers’ safety at all times.
• Follow and promote all policies and philosophies in all interactions with staff, volunteers, and the public on and off site.
• Demonstrate a high quality of work standards and ethics.
• Under the direction of the Camp Director, implement behavior modifications as described in the Camper’s Code of Conduct.
• Prepare weekly lesson plans and age-appropriate lessons, activities, or games for all age groups.
• Prepare materials needed for daily activities; set-up before each group arrives for their daily STEM period.
• Provide clear instruction and guidance to campers while teaching skills.
• Promote Jewish values including Kavod (respect) and teamwork.
• Ensure all sports materials are being used correctly and safely.
• Manage time efficiently, ensuring each group has time to learn, play, and clean up afterwards.
• Ensure all materials are cleaned properly and returned to appropriate areas.
• Communicate with Camp Director about STEM supplies and inventory.
• Assist Senior Counselors in managing camper behavior.
• Use learned positive reinforcement methods in managing camper behaviors.

• Assist in other areas of campus and/or groups during “off-periods.”
• Follow established cleaning procedures; ensure clean and tidy surroundings before transitioning to a different area on campus.
• Participate in weekly staff meetings.
• Be prepared to assist in any emergency situation involving a camper.
• Communicate with Camp Director regarding incidents or issues that arise.
• Honor confidentiality of the Tampa JCCs and Federation.
• Stay up-to-date with all procedure and policy changes.

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• Experience working with school age children, strongly preferred (ages 5-12).
• Possess certification in STEM education and/or minimum of 2 years of experience working in STEM education related field.
• Possess a high school diploma or GED, currently attending post-secondary school, or possess a graduate degree from a college/university.
• Possess First Aid/CPR certification (can be completed during staff training week).

SKILLS REQUIRED:

• Ability to complete background check and First Aid/CPR class.
• Ability to communicate, both verbally and in writing, effectively with staff, campers, and parents.
• Ability to make sound decisions that support the mission and are in the best interest of every camper.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Multi-tasking and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and plan accordingly.
• Adaptability as planned activities and events may need to change unexpectedly.
• Creativity and the ability to take initiative to keep campers engaged throughout the day.

BEHAVIORS REQUIRED:

• Enjoy working with children, and willing to provide a fun and nurturing summer experience.
• Highly motivated and energetic.
• Work cooperatively with directors and staff.
• Ability to take direction and comply with instructions given by supervisor.
• Confidence in supervising children and handling unforeseen situations.
• Willingly attend and participate in training sessions.
• Ability to be discreet and handle sensitive/confidential information in a responsible manner.
• Ability to handle diverse, simultaneous tasks.
• Demonstrate professionalism in appearance, including attire and attitude.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand and walk. Occasionally he/she is required to sit. The employee is frequently required to lift up to 25 pounds and occasionally required to lift up to 40 pounds. Vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. Summer camp employees may be outdoors in a nature type setting or in direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time.