Challenge Lab Lead

Description

Summary

Reporting to the Manager of Maker Experiences, the Challenge Lab Lead is an energetic, professional individual with a passion for delivering high-quality, STEAM-based programs to audiences of all ages. These programs will primarily take place in-person and virtually in the Museums onsite makerspace, The Challenge Lab, but this position will also provide support for the Museums community-oriented outreach program, the TECH Truck. The educator will work with the Manager of Maker Experiences and the rest of the Maker Programs team to develop original and engaging maker-based programming and execute them for a variety of ages and skill levels. This person will assist in training employees and volunteers in maker-based programming and teaching engagement techniques as well as equipment best practices. They will order materials, keep track of spending, maintain equipment and ensure that the Challenge Lab is adequately supplied in order to run efficiently. The Lead is responsible for ensuring that the Perot Museum maker-based programs are innovative, engaging, fun and at the forefront of STEAM education in the Metroplex.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Execute and develop curriculum of the Challenge Lab and TECH Truck programs

• Assess program supply inventory and purchase supplies and materials for Challenge Lab

• Document program spending to ensure expenditures are within budget

• Create procedures and protocols (manual and operating checklist) for proper running and maintaining the Challenge Lab and its programs, in addition to periodic training of staff and volunteers

• Ensure that Challenge Lab equipment is maintained and in proper working order

• In collaboration with the Chief Learning Officer, Manager of Maker Experiences and other team members, continue to shape the look, layout and feel of the Challenge Lab to best suit the Museums vision and for optimal visitor engagement

• Continually research new trends in maker-related education programs, equipment and other technologies in order to keep the Challenge Lab relevant and a leader in STEAM-oriented learning

• Create and deliver a strategic survey plan for program participants in order to accurately determine program needs, successes and areas for improvement

• In conjunction with the Manager of Maker Experiences, the rest of the Maker Programs team, the Development and Marketing teams, establish a successful program format and schedule for Museum patrons and cross platform promotion strategy and content delivery

• Establish network with other institutions with similar maker and makerspace related programs, both local and nationally, to assist in establishing a standard for shared community practices

• Serve as liaison to Volunteer department in scheduling and training volunteers for Challenge Lab needs, such as special events, supply preparation and more

• Assist with safety, program and presentation training for volunteers and staff

• Responsible for the operations of scheduled programs including supply prep, program set-up, clean-up, and implementation in accordance with the scheduled program time

• Regularly engage in external professional development via webinar or in-person training

• Present at one or more related conference such as TLA, ASTC, etc. either virtually or in-person

• Keep accurate records of program attendance, equipment, purchasing and supply inventories

• Maintain program processes, safety, and procedures to ensure high quality programming and efficient operations

• Assist in cross-department workload to accomplish all short and long-term institutional program goals

• Must be available to work weekend and evening hours

• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

Knowledge/Skills/Experience

• Completion of or in the process of completing a Bachelor of Arts or Science degree.

• Experience with and a passion for engaging youth in educational programs. 

• Familiarity with makerspace related tools and software a plus.

• Individual must be highly organized  and detail-oriented.

• Outstanding interpersonal skills, positive attitude, collaborative spirit and ability to interface at all levels.

• Excellent presentation and communication skills, both written and oral. 

• Must be highly self-motivated, collaborative, organized, flexible, and innovative.

• Punctual and professional with a commitment to promoting Museum values and mission.

• Knowledge of makerspace tools, technologies and related software a plus.

• Clean driving record and the ability to pilot large profile vehicles.

• Bilingual in Spanish preferred.

• Must be optimally protected from COVID-19 by being vaccinated and up to date with a booster dose.

Essential Physical Requirements

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; use hands to touch, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; talk and hear.  The employee frequently is required to walk.  Must occasionally lift up to 40 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions