Job Summary:
The EcoTarium, a Museum of Science & Nature, seeks an innovative and organized Museum Educator/ Camp Program Director to develop, deliver and facilitate engaging programs for the general public and groups, both on-site and off-site for all ages. Programming is on a variety of natural and physical science topics and includes interpretation of museum exhibits, digital planetarium, and outdoor programs on a 55-acre site, as well as programming and play facilitation in our Nature Explore Outdoor Exhibit. Teaching is through hands-on and inquiry-based methods encouraging exploration and self-directed learning. This role is responsible for assisting in all aspects of the camp programs, including oversight of day-to-day operations, developing content, and training seasonal staff.
In this role, you will:
- Handle all aspects of the camp program from planning to evaluation with the camp director
- Develop, document and evaluate inquiry-based curriculum for camps
- Process paperwork and communicate with parents in person, over the phone, and via email throughout the camp season
- Work with Director of Education & Exhibits on training, supervising camp staff, junior counselor staff, on call staff, and volunteers
- Develop contacts and foster relationships with groups and individuals to further the museum’s mission, to establish partnerships and to ultimately sell programming
- Develop and deliver hands-on, inquiry-based, participatory programs for guests and groups indoors as well as outdoors in any type of weather
- Lead school, public programs and camp sessions on a variety of science topics, both on-site and off-site
- Be familiar with overnight program, occasionally lead programs and serve on rotation schedule for meeting and greeting groups
- Include evaluation as a component of all program development
- Assist with team members on the development of grant proposals
- Administer grant-related projects and programs as assigned
- On a rotating basis oversee the day-to-day floor program operations
- Set-up and maintain field gear, program materials, technical equipment and supplies
- Handle animals for use in programs
A successful candidate will:
- Have experience working on a team, enjoy collaboration and bring a commitment to running creative educational programs with an entrepreneurial spirit.
- Have comfort with performance and/or public speaking, a flair for public presentation.
- Enjoy working with families and children.
- Possess a keen interest in science and a commitment to furthering their own education in the field.
- Have knowledge of good customer service principles and excellent interpersonal, organizational and leadership skills.
- Strong written and oral communication skills.
- Ability to multi-task and manage time efficiently.
- Be a creative individual with ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, be flexible and highly dependable
- Experience working with diverse audiences
- and/or other multi-lingual skills a plus
- Day camp programming experience
- General science background with knowledge in one or more of the following areas preferred: life science, earth science, astronomy, engineering, physical science
- Seasoned educator with experience developing, teaching and evaluating education programs in formal and/or informal settings
- Early childhood education (ages 6 and under) experience a plus
- Curriculum development experience desired
- Supervisory experience, including hiring and training
- Experience developing budgets and meeting budgetary and income goals
- Certified in CPR/First Aid or be willing to take a CPR/First Aid course
- Must meet Massachusetts Board of Health requirements 21 years of age, and two seasons as a member of the administrative staff of a recreational camp for children or successful completion of a course in camping administration
- Provide documented proof of immunity or vaccination record as mandated by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and complete the camp’s health form and waiver by the start of training
- Able to navigate the building, grounds under any weather conditions, move program equipment and supplies up to 40 lbs, stay stationary for long periods of time, and work in a highly sensory and stimulating work environment due to constant interaction with guests
- Pass CORI and SORI background checks according to EcoTarium’s guidelines
Disclaimer: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of 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.
The EcoTarium believes that science and nature are for everyone. We recognize the incredible value of the diversity of the human experience and we are committed to making equity, diversity, accessibility, and inclusion imperative in how we operate. We prioritize respect, inclusion, and opportunities for people of all backgrounds, lifestyles, and perspectives. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and we prohibit discrimination of any kind.
Applicants with disabilities may contact Human Resources via telephone, e-mail, and other means to request and arrange for accommodations. If you need assistance to accommodate a disability, you may request accommodation at any time. Please contact Patty Huzar (Director of Human Resources) at phuzar@ecotarium.org or 508-929-2700 ext 2708.