The Training Coordinator is responsible for the training and youth development of the Explainers and youth interns associated with the vision and mission of the Science Career Ladder. This means ensuring that diverse STEM content and concepts, related to the NYSCI exhibits, current events, and other NYSCI programs and associated funded work are well understood, that STEM communication and visitor-focused facilitation techniques are developed and well-executed, and help sustain the alignment with positive and current youth development and workforce practices. Together with the Manager of Training and Content who works closely with the Director of Youth Programs and Pathways, the Training Coordinator co-creates, documents, and delivers training, workshops, and demonstrations that embrace inquiry, communication, creativity, problem-solving, conflict resolution, leadership, and collaboration.

Training and Implementation

• Foster empowerment among youth participants through the creation and facilitation of captivating training sessions aligned with NYSCI's learning goals.
• Conduct training sessions for all levels of the Science Career Ladder on floor interactions, STEM content, demonstrations, cart activities, and other activities that support visitor engagement.
• Establish and maintain sustainable documentation processes for training and professional development initiatives, ensuring comprehensive and organized records are created and maintained to support ongoing learning and growth within the organization.
• Assess Explainers’ content, facilitation development, and growth in training, along with the Daily Operations team, and recommend promotions.

Program Design

• Support the development and testing of new demonstrations and other floor activities emphasizing inquiry and the scientific and design process.
• Review, assess and assist in the use, management and possible redesign of the Explainer resource page
• Work with other departments to develop new opportunities for Explainers in communicating science.
• Consult with experts in each field that reflects the accuracy of content and methods used in that discipline.
• Curate and integrate devices to use as Apron Tools by Explainers on the museum floor and in demonstrations.
• Work with the Manager of Training and Content and Program Manager of the Science Career Ladder on program development.

Leadership

• Mentorship of high school and college-aged Explainers to support their growth and development in their roles and skills that can be transferred to next academic and career steps.
• Participate in regular reflections (verbal and written) of self and of staff.
• Attend professional development seminars related to training and content in STEM and disseminate ideas to the larger department.
• Participate in the interview and orientation process of new staff.
• Assist in SCL program evaluation and assessment.

Assessment

• Under the supervision of the Manager of Training and Content - coordinates with the Daily Operations team to assess Explainers; give constructive feedback and address areas for growth, make recommendations for promotions and terminations.

Additional responsibilities include:

• Represent the Explainer department at meetings.
• Assist with other Explainer Department programs and responsibilities as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Explainers as it relates to training and floor activities. 
• Other related duties, and responsibilities, as assigned

• Education: Bachelor's Degree in Education, Sciences, Museum Studies, Social Sciences, or a related field; and or it’s work experience equivalent
• Experience: 3+ years’ experience in a museum, youth/workforce development organization
• Knowledge of science, technology, engineering and math concepts, theories, processes and its real-life and relevant applications
• Experience developing innovative and novel content for informal settings with a youth development and science communication focus.
• Knowledge of youth development and programmatic responses to youth strengths and needs.

• Ability to plan and organize the activities of others.
• Ability to get ideas accepted and to guide a group or individual to accomplish the task
• Ability to develop a budget and manage resources.
• Ability to assist in the establishment of long-term objectives and specify the strategies and actions to achieve them. Co-develop policies, procedures, methods & standards within the department.
• Work with the Science Career Ladder team to identify Explainer developmental needs, and then coach, mentor or otherwise help Explainers to improve their knowledge or skills.
• Assist in monitoring and evaluating Explainer performance, recommending and implementing personnel actions, such as promotions and dismissals.

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods during training sessions
• Carry materials up to 50 lbs (Science demonstration materials)
• Move around the museum to different exhibit areas

• A science center, natural history museum or children’s museum background is preferred but not required.

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

Please upload your resume and cover letter through our online careers page: https://workforcenow.adp.com/m...

Please note that while careful consideration will be given to each submission, the Museum will only be able to contact those applicants whose knowledge, skills, and work experience best fit the requirements of the position.

1. Virtual Interview (Zoom)
2. Hiring Committee interview
3. Explainer Leadership Team Interview (in-person)

No phone calls or faxes please.

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 help ensure you have a comfortable and positive interview experience, please let us know.

Research shows that women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds often apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the qualifications. We recognize that it is highly unlikely that an applicant meets 100% of the qualifications for a given role. Therefore, if much of this job description describes you, then you are highly encouraged to apply for this role.

Since its founding at the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair, the New York Hall of Science (NYSCI) has inspired millions of people — children, teachers, and families — by offering innovative, participatory ways to learn and encouraging people to explore their curiosity and nurture their creativity. Located in Queens, the most ethnically diverse county in the country, NYSCI welcomes 400,000 visitors each year and serves thousands more through outreach in schools, teacher professional development and participation in a variety of public events and research initiatives.

NYSCI is a leader in the science museum field, recognized for its highly regarded exhibitions, programs, and products, all of which are informed by our inclusive, research-derived approach to STEM learning and 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 invite broad participation in STEM and make engagement and learning irresistible. Through this transformative model for STEM exploration, NYSCI engages diverse communities of learners in STEM, by fostering the excitement of self-directed exploration and by tapping into the joy of learning intrinsic in young people’s play. NYSCI has approximately 87 full-time and over 103 part-time and casual staff members.