Play and Learning Facilitator

Mission: The Children’s Museum of South Dakota sparks imagination and learning for all children and their grown-ups through play, creativity, and discovery.  

Vision: CMSD seeks to transform the world by inspiring generations to love learning and to believe that life is full of possibilities.  

Job Summary:

Our Play and Learning Facilitators create a meaningful, high-quality experience for all guests through educational programs and interactive play experiences.  This position promotes a welcoming, fun, and inclusive learning environment for all visitors, encouraging participation and engagement in Museum exhibits and programs.  This role engages with children and their grown-ups to inspire creativity, discovery, and curiosity across all Museum experiences. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Facilitate age-appropriate educational programming and interactive learning experiences that align with the Museum’s values and learning framework.


• Foster positive interactions with children and guests, answering questions, providing information, and guiding them through exhibits and interactive play experiences.


• Engage in observation, documentation, and reflection of Museum programs and learning experiences.


• Support memorable, engaging experiences for groups, such as field trips, birthday parties, and community organizations.


• Assist in the delivery of off-site programs and outreach experiences that extend the Museum’s impact beyond its walls.


• Assist with preparing learning environment, including materials, setting up program spaces, and maintaining supplies and equipment.


• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Shows a passion for and commitment to the Museum’s mission, vision, and values.


• Previous work with youth or early learners preferred, but not required.


• Demonstrated experience and understanding of how young children learn through hands-on play and familiarity in creating interactive learning environments. Experience with a Reggio-inspired philosophy is recommended, but not required.


• Communicates effectively and interacts genuinely with people of all backgrounds, abilities, and life experiences. 


• Team player with ability to collaborate and cooperate.


• Self-motivated and able to work independently.


• Positive customer service skills.

What We Offer:

• Starting salary range of at least $15.00 per hour and will be evaluated commensurate with experience and qualifications.


• Benefits include an Association of Children’s Museums (ACM) Reciprocal Membership, discount onsite at Café Coteau and Play Central Toys and Books, professional and career development, and a playful environment.

Work Environment:

• This role requires an active, hands-on approach, including standing for extended periods, engaging with guests throughout the Museum, and performing tasks that involve lifting, bending, and moving objects to ensure a vibrant, engaging, and safe environment for our visitors.


• This role must be completed onsite and some flexible scheduling options may be available.


• Scheduled shifts include evenings, weekends, and some holidays.


• Part-time commitment requires a minimum of 8-10 hours per week.


• This position reports to our Education Manager.

How to Apply:

Please complete our online application which will require a resume of past work experience.

The Children’s Museum of South Dakota celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment where employees of all race, color, religion, marital status, age, gender, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, and veteran status feel welcome.