The University of Kansas Natural History Museum’s extensive informal science education programs advance science education and literacy by informing and inspiring visitors about natural history, evolutionary biology, and other science topics. The museum seeks an experienced museum educator for a small department to create and implement a range of engaging science education programs and resources. The museum education coordinator’s responsibilities include teaching, program research and development, program implementation and administration.
Job Description
Teach education programs for schools, youth, and other groups (35%)
1. Communicate scientific principles in an accurate and engaging way.
2. Facilitate positive science learning experiences for students, teachers, youth, and family groups. Lead outdoor field-based camps.
3. Modify approach as appropriate to individuals and groups (e.g., age or developmental levels, etc.).
Research, develop and implement public education programs and materials (35%)
1. Research, review and synthesize science content and liaise with relevant scientists if needed.
2. Consult relevant learning research to inform program development.
3. Formulate creative approaches and activities appropriate to target audiences.
4. Prototype and trial-test instructional material and methods for effectiveness.
5. Lead program evaluation and revise materials for effectiveness.
6. Create educational materials and experiences for grant projects, including evaluation.
Supervision, Management, and Administration (20%)
1. Recruit, supervise and train student staff (e.g., coordinate searches, produce schedule of work, monitor performance and provide feedback, approve hours).
2. Education program organization and administration, including school programs and lead for summer camps (e.g., planning, scheduling, setup, processing payments).
3. Assist associate director of informal science education in operation of office, budget preparation and tracking, promotion and evaluation of programs, reports, and managing physical facility.
Other related duties (10%)
1. Collaborate with colleagues, particularly outreach, on programming activities and initiatives, including participation in drop-in events and programs.
2. Provide support for exhibits (e.g., content development, label writing, review, and evaluation).
3. Other related duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
The following requirements should be evidenced during the interview or by information provided in the 1) application materials, 2) work history, 3) relevant education, 4) record of accomplishments and 5) references.
1. Master’s degree in science or a related field such as biological sciences, earth sciences, physical sciences, science education, museum studies, science communication OR Bachelor’s degree in relevant field and 3 years related experience.
2. Minimum of 1 year professional teaching experience in a science education setting.
3. Experience in education program development.
4. Knowledge and understanding of informal science education (e.g., familiar with principles, literature, and organizations; aware of trends and topics in the discipline).
5. Demonstrated strong oral and written communications skills.
6. Demonstrated excellent organizational and administration skills and ability to work independently.
7. Demonstrated problem-solving skills, as evident on application materials and during interview.
8. Competence using information technology for both research and teaching purposes (e.g., demonstrated experience with online research tools; familiar with Microsoft Office suite).
9. Experience supervising and training staff.
Preferred Qualifications
1. Master’s degree or higher in science or a related field such as biological sciences, earth science, physical sciences, science education, museum studies, science communication.
2. 3+ years professional teaching experience in a science education setting.
3. Professional experience at a natural history museum, science museum, or similar setting.
4. Background in more than one area of science (e.g., knowledge, courses, experience).
5. Experience working with diverse groups of visitors in an educational setting.
Work schedule: 40 hrs/wk, 8am to 5pm Monday-Friday; occasional evening and weekend work required.
Salary range: $45,000 to $47,000.
Additional Candidate Instruction
Only complete application packages submitted online will be considered. A complete application includes an online application form, resume, cover letter, names, and contact information for three professional references. Application Review Begins May 9, 2022.
For more information and to apply visit http://www.employment.ku.edu/staff/21783BR.
KU is an EO/AAE. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, national origin, disability, genetic information or protected Veteran status.
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