Employment

Classification: Full-Time or Part Time Available, Non-Exempt
Department: Science Learning
Reports To: Director of Innovative STEM Teaching

Position Overview

The Innovation Coordinator develops innovative, hands-on learning opportunities in SCI’s maker space and delivers STEM-based presentations to a variety of audiences.  The Innovation Lab and mobile SPARK Lab are spaces providing visitors opportunities to engage in the making experience to foster creativity, innovation and problem solving. This position supports the development and facilitation of making experiences; coordination of materials and delivers presentations and workshops to public and private groups both onsite and offsite. SCI is committed to equity & access. As such, SCI strives to ensure spaces and experiences are welcoming and accessible.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the director of innovative STEM teaching to develop visitor making and STEM experiences including facilitated & unguided experiences both onsite & offsite. This includes intergenerational groups, corporate groups, teacher professional development, youth and teens.
• Create a safe, welcoming, inspiring environment that supports intergenerational making
• Collaborate with other staff members on the execution of maker and innovation experiences and projects
• Participate in reflection, evaluation and documentation of the Innovation Lab and mobile SPRAK Lab
• Coordinate the purchase, organization and storage of materials
• Work alongside volunteers with some training and supervisory responsibilities
• Facilitates programs, workshops and classes. Trains other staff in the delivery of these experiences
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment; observe safety and risk management procedures in public areas and work spaces
• Use of sound judgment when handling diverse situations that arise with staff and visitors
• Represent the Science Center of Iowa and the Maker Movement in a positive manner with enthusiasm
• Assists with Outreach and Camps programming as needed
• Upholds Science Center of Iowa mission and values

Please note: this job description does not contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job; duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice

Supervisory Responsibility

This position does not have direct supervisory responsibilities.

Education, Experience and/or Other Requirements

Required:

• Equivalent combination of education and experience in maker-related and/or STEM field (education, industrial design, fine arts, interactive media, software development) High School Diploma or equivalent required, Bachelor’s Degree desired
• Interest in creativity, DIY art/ science projects, and the Maker Movement
• General knowledge of or interest in obtaining skills in using various equipment and tools including 3D printers, laser cutters, and VR equipment
• Experience in the development and implementation of age-appropriate activities, high regard for youth, families and child development is necessary
• Excellent interpersonal skills with children, adults and persons with diverse needs and backgrounds
• Ability to communicate complex science concepts in a fun, exciting and interesting fashion; high enthusiasm is required
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Organized; ability to work efficiently on several projects simultaneously, and maintain systems for supplies
• Ability to work collaboratively with a team
• Able to react quickly to solve problems or contact appropriate support staff
• Flexible in adapting to changing timelines and priorities
• Trustworthy and of high integrity, showing high respect for confidential information
• Highly motivated and resourceful self-starter with effective multitasking skills
• Ability to work independently while also constructively contributing in a team environment
• Successfully pass a background check

Preferred:

• Experience working with children/families in informal learning environments
• Experience with design software
• Technical skills or aptitude for coding/computer science, electrical, and A/V
• Basic knowledge science, technology, engineering and math
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (e.g. Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
• Proactively able to identify and improve product quality and development
• Valid Driver’s License

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to stand; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and hear or talk.  The employee is frequently required to walk and reach with hands and arms.  The employee is occasionally required to climb, balance, stop, kneel or crouch.  The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include vision, distance vision, peripheral vision and ability to adjust focus.

Hours & Work Schedule

This can be a full time or part time position. Schedule will be Tuesday- Saturday, hours will vary based on business needs and may include days, evenings, weekends and holidays. Some travel will be required. This position works directly with our visitors and in not eligible for hybrid or work-from-home status.

To Apply: Email your resume and completed application materials to scihr@sciowa.org.

Classification: Full Time, Exempt
Department: Preschool
Reports To:  Director of Early Childhood

*This position may be eligible for a $2,000 sign on bonus after the first 30 days.

Position Purpose

A Master Teacher recognizes that the education process is about much more than sharing content. It's about creating independent learners who have the critical thinking skills to grow and thrive. These educators put their students first and adapt the curriculum to their learners' needs. Master teachers hold their students to the highest expectations. They conduct regular progress monitoring, adjust their teaching approach as needed, and empower their students to take ownership of their education.

Responsibilities

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily, with or without reasonable accommodation, and perform other duties as assigned.

• Plan and carry out lesson plans each day in the classroom in alignment with Teaching Strategies GOLD or Iowa Early Learning Standards
• Provide activities and opportunities that encourage curiosity, exploration, and problem-solving appropriate to the developmental levels and learning styles of children
• Prepare and maintain classroom for daily use, including general cleaning duties and notifying proper staff of additional cleaning needs
• Meet with co-teacher to develop daily plans and prepare materials for use in the classroom
• Create and design classroom activities and investigations as needed
• Communicate regularly with parents through a variety of ways (email, newsletter, website, verbal)
• Write and compile individual assessments of each child's development; complete daily inventories, child attendance, and related reports; communicate with students’ families about ongoing progress
• Prepare and conduct parent/teacher conferences twice a year
• Meet with preschool staff regularly for professional development and collaboration on center-wide events
• Mentor less experienced teachers and student employees; model expert teaching practices, and provide feedback for improving teaching and enhancing parent and student relationships
• Attend and assist with all parent/preschooler special events during the school year
• Follow all policies and procedures of the Science Center and the Preschool
• Follow DHS, NAEYC, and ECERS regulations for ratio, environment, and safety
• Attend training and carry out PBIS in classroom
• Attend training and carry out The Project Approach in classroom
• Accommodate schedule changes and cover other staff when needed
• Please note this job description does not contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job; duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Supervisory Responsibility:

This position does not have direct supervisory responsibilities.

Education, Experience and/or Other Requirements:

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education
• Current certification from the State of Iowa Board of Education
• Maintain current First Aid, Universal Precautions, CPR, and Mandatory Reporter credentials
• Acquire 10 continuing education hours each year
• Has a passion and love for all young children and their families
• Ability to work independently while also constructively contributing in a team environment
• Possesses character qualities such as patience, creativity, flexibility, joyfulness and endurance
• Creative, curious, innovative and is passionate about learning
• Trustworthy and of high integrity, showing high respect for confidential information
• Pass a physical examination and TB test every 2 years
• Successfully pass a background check and DCI fingerprinting

Preferred:

• Teaching experience in the public school systems and/or preschool teaching experience
• Deep understanding of developmentally appropriate practices

Physical Demands:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. This position is primarily focused on time with children and will also need to sit and stand on the floor throughout the day, and bend, kneel, stoop, crawl and crouch to be at eye level with children. The employee may be required to regularly lift and/or move items up to 25 pounds and occasionally life and/or move up to 50 pounds. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to high.

Hours & Work Schedule:

Hours will vary based on business needs and may include days, evenings, weekends and holidays. Primarily a Monday through Friday schedule. Occasional travel will be required.

To Apply: Email your resume and completed application materials to scihr@sciowa.org.

Classification: Non-Exempt
Department: Science Learning
Reports To: Programs Manager

Position Overview

The Programs Coordinator assists with day-to-day operations, taking a lead role in the development and implementation of SCI Programs for onsite and offsite public and group programming.

Responsibilities

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily, with or without reasonable accommodation, and perform other duties as assigned.

• Develop and implement a varied and changing repertoire of live programs and demonstrations, ranging from small to large format presentations. Programs include, but are not limited to: exhibit interpretation, personal science experiences (Science Spots), public programs, school/group programs and discovery labs, classes and workshops, John Deere Adventure Theater presentations, and outreach programs.
• Assist Programs Manager with maintaining daily communication of programming with the public through various means including but not limited to digital signage and SCI’s Event calendar
• Functioning as content specialist for all programing, providing thorough and timely responses to internal and external customers and SCI staff surrounding programming questions
• Orient, train, and evaluate Science Learning staff on Program Presentations and hazardous material usage, storage, transportation and disposal
• Daily programs operations trouble-shooting
• Monitor and assist with maintaining all equipment and supplies for program operations
• Report consistent program attendance records
• Assist the Exhibits Department as needed for traveling exhibit set up and take down
• Create programming support for traveling and seasonal exhibits
• Support Exhibit staff; including but not limited to: opening and closing of the platforms
• Complete work in a timely manner so projects meet deadlines and within budget
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment; observe safety and risk management procedures in public areas and work spaces
• Work alongside volunteers with some training responsibilities
• Function as a direct representative from the science learning team to the public
• Be an active participant in the visitor experience including some exhibits work and assist with special events and projects

Please note: this job description does not contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job; duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice

Supervisory Responsibility

This position does not have direct supervisory responsibilities.

Education, Experience and/or Other Requirements

Required

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited school – preferably in Science, Education, or Theater
• Experience in program presentation to small and large groups
• Ability to develop and administer budgets, timelines and schedules
• Performance and/or customer service experience preferred
• Creative, curious, innovative and passionate about learning
• Flexible in adapting to changing timelines and priorities
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Trustworthy and of high integrity, showing high respect for confidential information
• Ability to communicate complex science concepts in a fun, exciting and interesting fashion; high enthusiasm is required
• Highly motivated and resourceful self-starter with effective multitasking skills
• Ability to work independently while also constructively contributing in a team environment
• Organized with the ability to work efficiently on several projects simultaneously
• Valid Driver’s License
• Successfully pass a background check

Preferred

• Technical skills or aptitude for coding/computer science and A/V
• Basic knowledge of museum experiences (exhibits and programs), science, technology, engineering and math
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (e.g. Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
• Knowledgeable on evaluation methods and data collection 
• Proactively able to identify and improve product quality and development

Physical Demands

Prolonged periods of standing and walking. Must be comfortable working at heights and physically able to climb ladders, bend, or crawl into awkward spaces. Must be able to lift, bend, twist, stoop, climb, reach, and lift up to 75 pounds at a time. Use their hands to grasp, move, handle, control, assemble or feel objects, tools, or controls. Repeat the same movements. See details of objects that are less than a few feet away. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Hours & Work Schedule

The primary schedule for this position will be Sunday-Thursday. The hours will vary based on business needs and may include days, evenings, weekends and holidays. Infrequent overnight travel may be required.

To Apply: Email your resume and completed application materials to scihr@sciowa.org.

Classification: Non-Exempt
Department: Preschool
Reports To: Director of Early Childhood

Position Overview

The Preschool Assistant is responsible for assisting with the implementation of the Science Center of Iowa Preschool program and other SCI early childhood programs. 

Responsibilities

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily, with or without reasonable accommodation, and perform other duties as assigned.

• Greet all customers in a professional, friendly, and timely manner, including answering phones drop in visits and directing inquiries
• Assist with maintaining SCI’s NAEYC accreditation standards including uploading digital files into the accreditation system
• Teach and direct classroom activities when assigned
• Prepare, clean and maintain classrooms and office space for daily use
• Maintain appropriate levels of supplies and timely placement of orders
• Basic office duties such as data entry and organize, file and maintain documents or records
• Attend and assist with parent/preschooler special events during the school year
• Manage and organize supplies and teaching materials
• Follow all policies and procedures of the Science Center and the Preschool
• Assist with oversight of children to ensure they are safe and engaged in the programming
• Actively participate on various internal and/or cross-functional teams as needed in furtherance of SCI’s goals and objectives
• Plan and carry out other EC programs and activities with in SCI as assigned
• Please note this job description does not contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job; duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice

Supervisory Responsibility

This position does not have direct supervisory responsibilities.

Education, Experience and/or Other Requirements

Required

• Maintain current First Aid, Universal Precautions, CPR, and Mandatory Reporter credentials
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Has a passion and love for all young children and their families
• Possesses character qualities such as patience, creativity, flexibility, joyfulness and endurance
• Ability to work independently while also constructively contributing in a team environment
• Trustworthy and of high integrity, showing high respect for confidential information
• Pass a physical examination and TB test every 2 years
• Successfully pass a background check and DCI fingerprinting

Preferred

• Clerical and office experience
• Para associate I and II or CDA or AA in Early Childhood

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. This position is primarily focused on time with children and will require prolonged periods of standing and walking throughout the program space. The employee will also need to sit and stand on the floor throughout the day, and bend, kneel, stoop, crawl and crouch to be at eye level with children. The employee may be required to regularly lift and/or move items up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to high.

Hours & Work Schedule

Hours will vary based on business needs and may include days, evenings, weekends and holidays. Primarily Monday through Friday schedule. Typically, no travel will be required.

Compensation

This position will be eligible for a $1,000 sign on bonus after the first 60 days.

To Apply

Email your resume and completed application materials to scihr@sciowa.org.