Science Instructor
DEPARTMENT ROLE
The Education Services team supports NYSCI’s mission by developing and implementing a vast array of innovative educational programs for Pre-K-12th grade students, educators and families. Our programs invite learners to actively engage in the exploration of STEM concepts and practices. The department cultivates many local and national partnerships, including colleges and universities; collaborates on research projects; develops STEM learning resources; and leads educational initiatives with our community to increase science awareness, excitement and interest in learners of all ages.
FUNCTION
The Science Instructor is responsible for implementing high quality, interactive STEM programs including student workshops, Out of School Time programs, teacher professional learning courses and multi-generational learning experiences such as STEM Family Days or Community Celebrations. The Science Instructor also plays a key role in the development of new innovative curriculum and leading NYSCI’s signature after school program, Science Innovators Club.
PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Design and implement engaging STEM curriculum, activities and experiences for students, teachers and families that aligns with NYSCI’s institutional philosophy (Design-Make-Play).
2. Deliver onsite and offsite student programs including workshops, after school programs and outreaches on a variety of science topics for Pre-K – 12th grade.
3. Act as a project lead for assigned grade units in the Science Innovators Club including developing or modifying curriculum, collaborating on assessments and assisting with the coordination of operational logistics.
4. Implement online, onsite and offsite teacher professional learning courses correlating to science standards.
5. Assist in the coordination and participation of large scale and small-scale education events including Community Celebration, Science Fairs, and Big Science Days.
6. Act as project leader or team member and collaborate with other NYSCI staff to meet all outcomes and deliverables associated with grant or revenue based projects.
7. Attend various conference/workshops/promotional events to participate or lead sessions/presentations representing NYSCI throughout the year.
8. Assist in the maintenance, organization, inventory, setup, and cleanup of science materials, supplies, and equipment in labs and other storage areas.
9. Assist in other areas of program support as needed in the Education Services Department including special events, workshops, outreaches, teacher trainings, camps, trips, Big Science Days, conferences, etc.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
None
QUALIFICATIONS
• B.A. or equivalent degree in appropriate field (science, education, museum studies, etc).
• At least 1-2 years experience developing lesson plans and teaching STEM for students, educators, or families in a formal or informal setting.
• Must be available to work evenings and weekends as needed.
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS
• Strong communications skills with the ability to express ideas clearly both in written and oral communications.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to work collaboratively with a diverse population.
• Ability to organize and self manage several projects and tasks simultaneously.
• Proficient in use of digital platforms and databases including Google Suite/Workspace, Microsoft Office and Excel.
• Demonstrable experience in working with teams with the ability to harness team creativity and translate into effective programming.
• Capacity to be professional and punctual at work.
• Ability to problem solve and take initiative without direction.
• Ability to reflect on practice.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
3-5 years of experience working in an informal learning environment such as a science center, zoo or museum. Master’s degree in related area preferred.
Bilingual: Proficiency in English as well as Spanish, Korean, Cantonese, or Mandarin.
COMPENSATION
Commensurate with education, skills and experience; salary range is $47, 500.
BENEFITS
NYSCI strives to be an inclusive and equitable place to work. We work to foster diverse voices and perspectives, empower staff as problem solvers, and support professional growth for all.
The New York Hall of Science also offers generous benefits and perks for all regular full-time employees. These currently include:
- Health, dental and vision insurance options
- Flexible spending accounts for healthcare, dependent care and commuter benefits
- Pension plan and 401k plan
- Free life insurance coverage
- Paid vacation and sick leave
- 13 paid holidays off
- Flexible work schedules
- Employee Assistance Program
- Free onsite parking
Organizational Background
NYSCI is New York City's science center, a place where everyone is invited to explore how science and engineering shape our world, and how we can use scientific tools and ideas to answer questions and solve problems. Visitors pose questions, design solutions, explore phenomena, and work together to make amazing things happen.
Located in Queens, one of the most diverse counties in the U.S., NYSCI welcomes 400,000 visitors annually, including families, students on field trips, and camp and after school groups. NYSCI also works with thousands of teachers each year to make classroom science more relevant, exciting and meaningful to students, and conducts innovative research about how science learning happens through everyday experience.
Our exhibitions, programs, and products are informed by strategies of engagement called Design, Make, Play. The defining characteristics of Design, Make, Play — open-ended exploration, imaginative learning, personal relevance, deep engagement and delight — are the ingredients that inspire passionate STEM learners.
How to Apply
Please send cover letter and resume to jobs@nysci.org. Please include job title in subject line. No phone calls.
The New York Hall of Science is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive and innovative environment with the best employees. We provide employment opportunities without regard to age, race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, disability, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, military service, marital status or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law. We support a drug-free workplace.
If there are preparations we can make to help ensure you have a comfortable and positive interview experience,
please let us know.