Facilitator Explainer

The Franklin Institute, the most visited museum in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, strives to be the world leader in promoting science and technology education and literacy through inspiring and engaging experiences that cultivate curiosity, critical thinking, and an understanding of the crucial role science plays in our lives.

At The Franklin Institute, we provide an environment that is as nurturing as it is dynamic. Our team-oriented approach allows for ample learning and career growth opportunities. We think you will find the Institute offers the ideal atmosphere in which to best use your skills and talents. We are eager for your input, ideas, and inspiration.

Position Description:

Are you passionate about science and want to share that enthusiasm with others? The Facilitator Explainer contributes a world-class visitor experience to make science fun, interactive, and memorable for visitors of all ages. This position will begin with a focus on astronomy-related programming with the potential to cover other science-related fields relevant to the content presented at the museum.  You’ll be operating telescopes, leading planetarium shows and interacting with guests in our hands-on exhibits. This part-time position focuses on weekends and holidays with the flexibility to work weekdays, evenings, and special events upon request.

The Facilitator Explainer will:

• Be responsible for daytime operation of our Observatory – Operate telescopes, including our 10” refractor and guide visitors through what they see in our sky.
• Perform in the Planetarium – present and operate scripted shows
• Explain exhibits – Encouraging visitors to engage with exhibits by playfully engaging with the exhibits themselves.
• Create moments- help guests investigate questions on deeper levels with one-on-one interactions
• Assist with schedule coverage during busy periods
• Help maintain equipment and supplies
• Work with supervisors to assess new ways in delivering exhibit facilitation with guests.

Position Requirements

• Experience delivering high-quality customer service and making guest connections.
• Experience in teaching, science communication, public speaking, or theater
• Previous communicative work with diverse populations.
• Basic knowledge of Astronomy required- the ability to relay content and answer questions at a middle/high school level. Continued training in telescope operation provided.
• Must pass all required local, state, and federal background checks and child abuse clearances
• This position requires the ability to stand for long hours and work in a high-energy museum environment, along with maneuvering and lifting objects up to 25 pounds.

• Status: Part-time with a focus on weekends and holidays with the flexibility to work weekdays, evenings, and special events upon request.