This is a union position.

The Museum Educator I lead instruction for educational programs, such as summer camps, off-site programs, birthday parties and sleepovers. This position emphasizes relationship-building and requires prompt, friendly, accurate communication with program participants and coworkers.  Weekend work may be required.

Museum Educators are responsible for building relationships with youth and their adult care-givers and for working with a team of museum staff and volunteers to deliver effective, engaging, and safe learning experiences. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND EXPERIENCE:

• Museum Educators are patient, caring individuals who have the knowledge and skills to foster welcoming, safe, social settings that help people explore nature and science and connect with one another. 
• Museum Educators must be comfortable adapting their approaches in a dynamic setting to meet the needs of visitors and program participants.
• Experience facilitating informal learning (community-based, outdoors, in museums, after-school programs, or similar settings) is preferred. 

Candidates working with off-site programs must have a Pennsylvania “C” Class Driver’s License or equivalent from another state.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Demonstrated knowledge of age appropriate content and pedagogy for a variety of audiences
• Demonstrated aptitude for creativity, curiosity, passion, enthusiasm, integrity, and a strong professional ethic
• Documented ability to contribute in team settings
• Passion for/interest in Science and Nature.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in sciences, humanities, social services, creative arts, education or related field.
• Educational certification is valued, but not required.
• Documented experience working directly with stakeholders or parents.
• Cultural competency and experience working with diverse communities.
• Willingness to be open and respectful of all backgrounds.
• Fluency in language(s) other than English valued.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

This position requires constant mobility around the program space and through museum exhibit halls for several hours at a time.  If the person is not able to bend or lift items of 20 – 50 lbs, they must be willing to ask for assistance performing tasks that require these actions. 

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Leading instruction

• Working collaboratively with a team of educators, assistants, and volunteers to deliver effective, engaging, and safe learning experiences
• Applying knowledge of best-practices to create welcoming, age-appropriate spaces where participants feel cared for and are excited to learn about science, nature and one another.
• Designing and defining clear goals and creating opportunities for learners to receive feedback on progress towards goals
• Using a variety of strategies that engage diverse learners, including best practices for accessibility

Planning educational experiences based on resources provided by CMNH staff

• Adapting lesson plans from existing resources
• Coordinating with support staff and volunteers to ensure that learning spaces and materials are prepared and returned before/after each program
• Coordinating with staff and volunteers to ensure that participants are greeted upon arrival and know what to do to get the program started
• For off-site programs, planning and preparation will include transportation of materials to the off-site location.

Supporting efforts to create a safe environment for all people, facilities, and natural resources

• Following established procedures for safety, security, custodial, visitor service, and maintenance procedures.  This includes providing clear safety expectations for participants in the context of educational activities.
• Using appropriate procedures in emergency situations
• Using appropriate reporting procedures for incidents and unexpected situations
• Ensuring that impact of educational activities on museum collections and exhibitions is minimized.
• Ensuring that environmental impact of educational activities is minimized.

Developing pedagogy skills through ongoing practice, reflection, and professional development structured by CMNH

• Attending CMNH Educator professional development meetings
• Observing, analyzing and co-teaching with fellow CMNH educators
• Actively participate in annual review with supervisors

Additional responsibilities may be assigned on a case by case basis.