Children's Educator

The Wagner Free Institute of Science is a National Landmark, natural history museum and educational institution that fosters an understanding of contemporary science and the history of science through free programs. Founded in 1855, the Wagner serves 23,000+ people each year through its museum, library and extensive educational programs. The Wagner seeks a Children’s Educator to engage and educate children and families in the Wagner’s community. 

The Wagner Free Institute of Science seeks a part-time Children’s Educator, available to work 25-30 hours/week. This position works as part of the Education Department to develop and implement school-based outreach programs serving neighborhood K-8 students, including the award-winning GeoKids program, an intensive hands-on science program for local elementary schools. GeoKids is a yearlong school day program, now in its 33rd year, which relies on collaborative relationships with teachers, university partners and organizations across the city to create and deliver a hands-on science curriculum. The program takes place primarily within school classrooms and includes out-of-school field experiences, designed and facilitated by Wagner educators. The Wagner’s outreach programs require a skilled educator with an understanding of science and teaching. We encourage individuals from racially marginalized communities to apply because we believe having a staff that reflects the community we serve is critical to our ability to be culturally responsive. 

As a member of the Children’s Education department, this educator will be part of a team of educators that facilitate museum programming for children and families. In addition to GeoKids, these programs include school field trips, museum engagement activities, Family Science Saturdays and Wagner to Go. The Children’s Educator supports the promotion of Wagner programming to the community and represents the museum in community based and citywide outreach events. All Wagner staff are trained to engage museum visitors, work in a historic site and are key to keeping the collection accessible.

Responsibilities:

• Deliver on-going educational outreach with local elementary schools
• Participate in program development, evaluation and refinement
• Collaborate with local peer organizations to plan and deliver outreach programs
• Serve as a mentor and partner for Children’s Education interns
• Assist with Institute educational programs and visitor services
• Other duties as assigned

Skills:

• Detail oriented, excellent organizational, and written communication skills
• Outstanding time management skills
• Ability to work collaboratively, independently, creatively, and to take initiative
• Strong computer and software application skills
• Must work well with the public, possess excellent public speaking skills
• Growth mindset to foster positive workplace

Desired Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or 2 years of relevant experience
• Experience and/or demonstrated interest in museums, teaching, natural science, and history of science
• Commitment to team processes and fostering a collaborative working environment
• Enjoys teaching children across a wide range of ages and socio-economic backgrounds, and working with classroom teachers
• Availability to work periodic evenings and Saturdays
• Experience, connection and/or work within North Philadelphia desirable
• Commitment to advancing equity

Additional Requirements:

• Ability to navigate stairs to access the Wagner’s 2nd floor gallery.
• Ability to handle the physical demands of groups in museum, classroom, and field trip settings.
• Criminal background checks required
• Reliable personal transportation with ability to transport lesson materials.