The Mariners’ Museum and Park Education team seeks a Science Educator.
Purpose: The Mariners’ Museum and Park’s mission is to connect people to the world’s waters because through the water, through our shared maritime heritage, we are connected to one another. One key component of that connection to the water and our maritime heritage is the science and technology that enabled cultures to explore, trade, and fight on the water. Educational programs represent one of the Museum’s four core functions: exhibits, programs, research, and conservation. The Education Department is committed to providing equitable access to a unique, engaging museum experience that enriches students’ education. The Science Educator is a professional charged with working under the general supervision of the Director of Education to support the Museum’s educational and interpretive mission to provide STEM-focused programming to K-12 students. Program formats include, at the Museum, outdoors in Mariners’ Park, in the classroom, and virtual. The Education Department is comprised of Educators and Senior Educators. The Science Educator will be trained and mentored by the Senior Educators. While the focus of this position will be the presentation and development of STEM-focused programs, the Science Educator will also assist in delivering history-based programs.
Duties:
- Maintain a strong commitment to welcoming, encouraging, educating, and enriching youth of all ages, identities, and learning styles.
- Help students find their connection to our shared maritime heritage and see themselves as a valued part of The Mariners’ Museum community.
- Assist with executing the NOAA B-WET grant-funded project, “The Mariners’ Environmental Co-op.” The purpose of this three-year project is to empower 9th-grade Newport News Public Schools students to become stewards of their local watershed. Project components include students growing eelgrass in their classroom, installing the eelgrass in and around Mariners’ Lake, and gathering data on the health of the Lake.
- Collaborate with Senior Educators in conceiving, researching, developing, and modifying STEM-focused programs designed for a museum, classroom, or virtual setting. Programs address elementary and secondary school educational objectives and learning standards that enhance the public’s understanding of the Museum’s mission, collections, and resources.
- Teach STEM-focused programs in a museum, classroom, or outdoor setting or via distance learning.
- Assist in teaching history-based programs.
- Collaborate with other Educators and Senior Educators to create interdisciplinary learning opportunities for students in new and existing educational programs.
- Collaborate with Senior Educators and other Museum staff in conceiving, researching, developing, and implementing specialized educational programming. This may include grant-funded programming with external partners.
- Assist with program evaluation as needed.
- Represent the Museum at professional meetings, conferences, and workshops.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Requirements
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
- Excellent oral and written communication skills are required.
- Excellent organizational skills.
- Ability to prioritize work assignments.
- Ability to connect and engage with students.
- Ability to adapt and think creatively.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Must be flexible, patient, resourceful, and accountable.
- Must be proficient in Microsoft Office and Google Suites
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Science, Education, or a related field required. Master’s degree preferred.
- Volunteer or internship experience in a museum or educational setting is preferred.
Conditions of Employment:
- Must be available to work some evenings, weekends, and special events.
- Must be able to pass a background check and drug screen prior to employment.
- Must have access to reliable transportation for off-campus events and programs.
This is a full-time, salary-exempt position with a salary of $40,000. Candidates must include a Cover Letter in order to be considered. No phone calls, please – only applicants being considered for interviews will be contacted.
Please visit The Mariners’ Museum and Park website for more information and to apply.