Science Educator

Department: Discovery Centre Science Education
Supervisor: Manager, Science Education
Position Category: Full Time
Working Hours: 35 hours per week
Salary: $38,292.80 per annum
Benefits: Medical/Dental (100% employer-paid); RRSP plan
Application Deadline: May 10, 2024

(Note: The position is subject to the terms and conditions of a collective agreement between Unifor and Discovery Centre)

Position Summary

The Science Educator develops and delivers creative programming for classrooms and informal settings across the province and for online learners through a variety of media. The Science Educator is responsible for ensuring learners of all ages develop their skills and literacy in important STEAM subjects through engaging lesson planning, facilitation, and the implementation of program evaluation tools.

The Science Educator works collaboratively with the entire Discovery Centre team and with external stakeholders and partners to enhance education in key areas of focus including Climate Change, Health, Energy, and Oceans Sciences, Innovation, and inquiry-based learning. The role includes travel within the province, assisting in program scheduling, reporting, and communicating educational initiatives.

Summary of Responsibilities

• Delivers programming in virtual settings, in the Discovery Centre, and through travel to schools and communities across Nova Scotia, upholding the Centre's mission and reputation
• Works as part of the Science Education team to develop engaging inquiry-based programming that will inspire scientific literacy and encourage skill development in learners of all ages, namely grades P-12
• Participate in regular team planning meetings
• Reports regularly on program statistics, and outcomes
• Assists Science Education and Science Experience team with key projects, public programming, and registration-based programs
• Liaises with program partners, including the NS Department of Education and Early Childhood Development and teachers, providing Professional Learning
• Develops and delivers hands-on programming for a week-long March Break camp and PD camps throughout the school year; supports the summer camp team as needed
• Supports communications related to programming including media interviews, photo opportunities, video, etc.
• Follows and contributes to workplace safety protocols and procedures
• Cleans, restocks, and maintains programming supplies while adhering to budget
• Ensures the safe operation of Discovery Centre vehicles, including prompt reporting of maintenance and/or safety concerns to the Manager, Science Education
• Other duties as assigned by the Manager, Science Education

Qualifications

Education: Academic background or demonstrable experience in key areas of focus considered a strong asset (Climate Change, Health, Energy, or Ocean Sciences)

Experience: Relevant experience includes working positions related to interpretation, education, or recreational programming, especially those within science centres or museums; affinity for science with a familiarity of inquiry-based learning.

Language Requirements: Fluency in English is required; bilingual in French is preferred; additional languages would be considered an asset.

Competencies:

• Dynamic teaching/presentation skills
• Excellent communication skills
• Highly organized
• Able to work independently and in a team environment
• Demonstrated aptitude for safe practices

Other Qualifications:

• Experience with Google, MS Office suite, ZOOM and video conferencing platforms
• A clean criminal record check and child abuse registry check are mandatory
• Must hold or be willing to work towards a certificate in standard First Aid (CSA Intermediate)
• Class 5 licence and clean driving record, with at least one year driving history
• Ability to travel to schools and communities across the province

Hours of Work

The Science Educator works 35 hours per week and may be required to work beyond core business hours as needed, which may include evenings, early mornings, weekends, or holidays, in agreement between the incumbent and Manager, Science Education.

Application

Applications are to be emailed to [email protected] . Applicants are to submit their resume, cover letter, and references. Please note the position that you are applying for in the subject line of your email application. All applications will be reviewed but only those chosen for an interview will be contacted. All applicants are thanked in advance for their interest.

Discovery Centre is committed to leveraging our facility, people, and programming to create inclusive spaces that ignite a passion for science and discovery. We are also committed to advancing diversity, inclusion, equity, and accessibility practices within our workplace, public engagement spaces, and programming. Our Centre's Board of Directors, management, and staff believe diverse participation and representation are essential and that our networks thrive when we create an inclusive and equitable culture where all people can see themselves reflected, feel respected, and have their contributions valued.

Discovery Centre promotes equal employment opportunities for all job applicants, and we encourage applications from candidates who self-identify as a member of an underrepresented group, including Indigenous people (especially Mi'kmaq), people of Black/African descent (especially African Nova Scotians), members of other racialized groups, women, people with disabilities, and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

We are committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment, starting with the hiring process. If you need to be accommodated during any phase of the evaluation process, please contact [email protected] to request specialized accommodation. All information received in relation to accommodation will be kept confidential.