Overnight Program Instructor

Do you wonder if the exhibits really come to life in the night? Do you have a flare for performance? Do you enjoy working with children? If you said, “Yes”, to any of these questions then you might be just who we are looking for!

The EcoTarium, A Museum of Science & Nature, seeks creative and engaging program instructors to assist in delivering interpretative programs for Night Journeys (overnight programs). Programming is on a variety of natural and physical science topics and takes place on the museum floor, in classroom settings, in our digital planetarium, and outdoors on our 55-acre site. Teaching is primarily through hands-on and inquiry-based methods encouraging exploration and self-directed learning.

Candidates for this position must enjoy working with families and children, possess a keen interest in science, and be committed to ongoing growth and learning in the fields of science and education. Participation is required for three evenings of paid training to become familiar with workplace policies, science and nature content, program materials, and teaching skills for various audiences. Separate paid animal-handling training with Zoo staff is also required.

Duties/Responsibilities :

• Work as part of a team to provide an exceptional visitor experience and deliver museum-quality, hands-on educational programming on a variety of science and nature topics through formal and informal contacts
• Conduct outdoor programming and navigate trails in all types of weather conditions
• Prepare, tidy, and maintain museum spaces and program materials including technical equipment and other supplies
• Report any issues with programming, guests, staff, wildlife, or exhibits to Senior Overnight Program Instructor and participate in preparation meetings and evening staff debriefs
• Take initiative in problem solving, leading programs, and fostering effective interactions between guests and staff
• Present a positive attitude and engender a sense of fun for guests where appropriate
• Handle animals for use in programs
• Uniform/dress code required

An ideal candidate will have:

• Background in life science, earth science, astronomy, engineering, and/or physical science
• Experience with inquiry-based and/or experiential learning
• Experience leading or assisting programming at a science camp or museum
• A flair for public presentation
• Demonstrated ability to have fun with kids, laugh at oneself, and be silly·
• Availability for training

Requirements

• 18 years of age or older
• Availability for training
• Demonstrated previous experience teaching and/or working with children
• Interest in and/or experience working with diverse audiences
• Comfort with presentation and/or public speaking
• Demonstrated success working both independently and as part of a team
• Flexibility and dependable
• Willingness to learn and grow through constructive feedback
• Documented proof of vaccination against COVID-19, or willingness to provide weekly COVID-19 testing results throughout active employment
• Ability to navigate the building and grounds under any weather conditions, lift and transport up to 25 lbs., and work in a highly sensory and stimulating work environment due to constant interaction with guests
• Pass CORI and SORI background checks

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $15.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount

Schedule:

• 12 hour shift
• Night shift
• Weekend availability

COVID-19 considerations:
vaccination requirements, mask requirements

Work Location: One location