About the role:
We are looking for a motivated, hard-working, and passionate person to share ExploraDome programming with diverse Minnesota K-12 and community settings, with respect and active inclusion across the intersectionality of Minnesota communities including rural and metro, black, Indigenous, and people of color, and people with disabilities.
This .8 FTE, benefit eligible position will work collaboratively across the Statewide Engagement and Public Engagement and Science Learning teams to plan and implement astronomy programming and to leverage the platform of the Bell Museum ExploraDome to support Native and Indigenous knowledge keepers and non-western cultural astronomy.
We are looking for someone to join our team who is inspired by our mission to ignite curiosity and wonder, explore our connections to nature and the universe, and create a better future for our evolving world. We believe that difference is a strength and are looking for candidates that reflect and respect diversity. We encourage you to apply for the position even if you do not believe you meet every qualification.
What you'll do:
ExploraDome Program Coordination and Delivery (75%)
● Implement programs in the portable ExploraDome Outreach planetarium to school and community audiences across the state of Minnesota in addition to the Twin Cities metro area, up to 4 days per week, with some weekends and pre-scheduled overnight visits.
● Work with Bell Group Sales and Reservation staff to coordinate and schedule ExploraDome visits.
● During off-site visits, manage and move large equipment with assistance, work with local hosts (including teachers, administrators, and volunteers) effectively instructing them on equipment setup and take down procedures
● Effectively manage participants in a classroom style environment, and facilitate up to 5.5 hours of instructional programs per day
● Navigate unexpected situations in a professional manner (behavioral, tech troubleshooting, etc.)
● Build relationships with school and community members.
Curriculum Development (10%)
● Maintain a library of ExploraDome Outreach programs, including review and modification of existing programs, in alignment of state and/or national science standards.
● Develop/adapt educator guides for ExploraDome Outreach programs, seek input from diverse communities to ensure guides are relevant and relatable.
Show Production and technology support (5%)
● Keep up to date on the latest releases of planetarium software and other new media
● Maintain the equipment in the ExploraDome Outreach planetarium
Support of Statewide Engagement and Public Engagement and Science Learning Programs (10%)
● Deliver K-12 virtual astronomy field trip programming as necessary
● Work with museum staff to compile program evaluation data for reports and for grant proposal submissions and to track success in reaching broad and diverse audiences
● Attend conferences and events to promote programs
● Work closely with the Statewide Engagement and Public Engagement and Science Learning teams to assess goals and collaborate on strategies to best meet the needs of Minnesota’s diverse communities.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
● BA or BS in science or education and a minimum of 2 years experience - OR - a combination of related education and experience totaling 6 years.
● Demonstrated working knowledge of astronomy
● Demonstrated ability to comfortably present science content and field questions from youth and adults
● Demonstrated ability to effectively engage and manage youth in a classroom style environment
● Ability to think quickly and respond in a professional manner in challenging situations
● Commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all learners and an ability to interact with a variety of cultural and socioeconomic groups
● Valid driver’s license in order to operate ExploraDome vehicle
● Must be able to hoist ExploraDome equipment of up to 50 pounds, and heavier items with assistance
Desired Qualifications:
● Experience working with K – 12 youth and adults in a formal, informal setting
● Experience operating planetarium software
● First hand working knowledge of non-western cultural astronomy
● Ability to organize time and work in a highly effective manner
● Ability to work both independently and in a team setting
● Ability to express ideas clearly both verbally and in writing
● Must be adaptable, flexible, dedicated and dependable
● Skills in resourcefulness and creativity
● Formal education or experience in science and STEM program development and experience applying this knowledge to program implementation
● Fluency in a language in addition to English such as Spanish, Somali, Hmong, Dakota, Ojibwe, etc.
Physical Demands and Work Environment:
The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee must be able to drive the ExploraDome equipment in Bell Museum vehicle and, with assistance, retrieve from vehicle, setup, and take down equipment. Must be able to hoist 50 lbs. Must be an effective public speaker and be able to respond to verbal questions. Must be able to experience small enclosed spaces, dim/low lighting, and tolerate fan noise.
Working Hours:
Must be available to work a minimum of 4 weekdays (tbd), with occasional evenings and weekends. In addition, must be able to stay overnight for some program locations.
For more information or to apply visit:
Application Deadline: August 16, 2022
Pay Range: $20- $22/ hour
For questions about the position contact Kate Sigurdson, ksigurds@umn.edu.
Bell Museum ExploraDome Coordinator and Educator
Posted: July 19, 2022 by cece
Category: Bell Museum of Natural History
Qualifications
Qualifications