Learning and Instruction Specialist - Temporary

The Learning and Instruction Specialist is part of the Center for STEM Education (CSE) within the Division of Science & Innovation. This position is responsible for the development and delivery of CSE programs that seek to inspire, support, and connect our audiences through participatory STEM experiences. Provide expertise and creative direction for the development of program materials, curricula, and instruction. Work collaboratively across SMM in leadership and team roles for cross- and inter-departmental initiatives, and cross divisional/department projects. Grow museum audiences by engaging with virtual/in-person and internal/external stakeholders to optimize the reach and impact of museum programs for local, state, regional, and national audiences. Serve as a resource across the institution for the development of learning experiences that translate STEM concepts that center equity into facilitated learning experiences that are inclusive, engaging, fun, and educational for a broad range of learners.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

1. Develop and deliver CSE programs for school audiences, such as assemblies and explorations (primarily K-5). This includes both large and small groups, formal and informal settings, virtual and in-person.


2. Develop and deliver CSE programs for youth and family audiences, such as Freedom School (primarily PreK-8). This includes facilitating onsite at the museum and offsite, virtual and in-person.


3. Develop and deliver CSE programs for adult audiences (educators and community members). This includes supporting teacher professional development workshops, Lending Library consultations, and other Educator Resource activities, virtual and in-person.


4. Work collaboratively to develop and improve CSE programs, integrating research-based best practices. Use an iterative development process to generate, evaluate, and document new activities.


5. Understand and use appropriate diversity, equity, access, and inclusion strategies when working with learners with special needs and from diverse backgrounds. Work within our department to ensure CSE programs are reflective of SMM’s Equity Value and Equity and Inclusions Statement.


6. Participate in professional development, mentor youth staff, and seek out opportunities to deepen your understanding of STEM learning practices. Maintain a knowledge of the current state of informal educational practice. Develop and lead internal professional development sessions for SMM staff to share this understanding. 


7. Nurture and sustain internal relationships to collaborate across divisions/departments in the development of program and business plans that attend to both mission and margin. Lead cross-departmental experience development workgroups on new topics or educational activities, balancing timelines, budget constraints, audience needs, and program goals. 


8. Develop, nurture, and sustain critical museum relationships with external partners and stakeholders that contribute to the vision, experience development, engagement, inclusion, and access for CSE/SEED/SMM audiences. Lead development and contribute to grant and development proposals. 


9. Write and update curricula for learning experiences that support diverse audiences of learners. This includes maintaining curricula, instructional supports, and materials documentation for the delivery of CSE programming. Take care of shared resources such as educational materials, equipment, classrooms, and vans.


10. Work closely with the Senior Manager of Learning and Instruction to design and implement programs, policies, and infrastructure to assure successful program delivery and learning experience development. Advise on, contribute to, and support research and evaluation efforts to maintain data-driven decisions that will improve pedagogy at SMM.


11. Facilitate and maintain a positive internal culture within Center for CSE: support one another, encourage open dialogue, advocate for continued improvement in our programs and structures, and assist with interviewing and onboarding new staff.


12. Cultivate new, unique, and innovative ideas in support of the development, design, or creation of cutting edge participatory STEM experiences. Inform project planning related to instructional pedagogy and CSE best practices.


13. Performs other related duties as assigned.