Status: Seasonal, Temporary, Part Time, Hourly; Paid Training

Job Summary:

Do you enjoy working with children? Are you excited about science and nature? Do you wonder if the exhibits really come alive at night? If you said, “Yes” to these questions then you might be just who we are looking for!

The EcoTarium Museum of Science & Nature seeks organized, creative, and responsible Senior Overnight Program Instructors, who will lead a team to deliver educational programs for Night Journeys overnight programs. Programming is on a variety of natural and physical science topics and takes place on the museum floor, in classroom settings, in our digital planetarium, and outdoors on our 55-acre site. Teaching is primarily through hands-on and inquiry-based methods encouraging exploration and self-directed learning.

Hours and Compensation:

  • Pay rate $17.25/hr
  • Flexible shift-based role with overnight shifts on Friday and Saturday evenings September through June. Occasional Thursday night shifts may be available.
  • 18-hour shifts 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 a.m. (17 hours paid) with two 30-minute unpaid meal breaks. Program runs from 6:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. and from 7:00 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. Employees working overnight shifts are expected to sleep on-site at the Museum (paid), and are on-call between the hours of 10:30 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. in case of emergencies or program needs.
  • Candidates are expected to have general availability for at least two shifts per month. Scheduling will be based on employee availability and program needs.
  • Paid training (scheduled based on employee availability).

Essential Functions:

  • Lead and supervise a team of Overnight Program Instructors to ensure smooth and safe delivery of overnight programming.
  • Serve as the main point of contact for overnight guests, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and positive experience.
  • Deliver museum-quality, hands-on educational programming on a variety of science and nature topics.
  • Ensure safety protocols are followed and maintain proper supervision of participants throughout the night.
  • Sleep onsite during overnight programs and remain on-call in case of emergency or program needs for employees working overnight shifts.
  • Report any issues with programming, guests, staff, wildlife, or exhibits to the Overnight Program Coordinator.
  • Navigate the museum building and outdoor grounds in all weather conditions.
  • Competently lead all programs and be a role model for staff.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Conduct preparation meetings and evening staff debriefs.
  • Deliver indoor and outdoor programming in all weather conditions, including trail navigation and navigate trails in all types of weather conditions
  • Prepare, tidy, and maintain museum spaces and program materials including technical equipment and other supplies.
  • Take initiative in problem solving and fostering effective interactions between guests and staff.
  • Present a positive attitude and facilitate a fun learning environment for guests.
  • Contribute to a professional, motivational, and collaborative work environment by encouraging teamwork and providing positive reinforcement to team members when a job is well done.

Requirements:

  • 21 years of age or older
  • Demonstrated experience teaching and/or working with children
  • Knowledge of good customer service principles, and excellent interpersonal, organizational and leadership skills
  • Demonstrated experience in supervisory role
  • Demonstrated experience working collaboratively on a team
  • Ability to multi-task and manage time efficiently
  • Comfort with performance and/or public speaking
  • Strong written and oral communication skills
  • Dependable, flexible, and able to take initiative. 
  • Interest in and/or experience working with diverse audiences
  • Demonstrated ability to have fun with kids
  • Ability to navigate the building and grounds under any weather conditions, lift and transport up to 25 lbs., and work in a highly sensory and stimulating work environment due to constant interaction with guests
  • Pass CORI and SORI background checks

An ideal candidate will have:

  • Experience with inquiry-based and/or experiential learning
  • Experience leading or assisting programming at a science camp or museum
  • Background in life science, earth science, astronomy, engineering, and/or physical science
  • First Aid/CPR/AED certification
  • Multilingual skills

Rate of Pay: $17.25/hour

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 Human Resources at resume@ecotarium.org.

Instructions: Please fill out the form below to submit your application.

All applications require a cover letter and resume. Review begins immediately; applications accepted until position is filled. EOE.

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