ChallENGe Lab Lead

Perot Museum of Nature and Science; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 42,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

The Perot Museum of Nature and Science is seeking a Challenge Lab Lead to drive maker-based programming in the on-site Challenge Lab, reporting to the Hands-on Experience Manager.

You will lead curriculum development, train staff and volunteers, manage supplies and equipment, and help shape engaging experiences for visitors of all ages in a dynamic museum setting.

Responsibilities

• Execute and develop Challenge Lab curriculum and programming.
• Assess program supply inventory and provide material lists for Challenge Lab.
• Create procedures and protocols to properly run and maintain the Challenge Lab and its programs, including training of staff and volunteers.
• Maintain equipment and ensure Challenge Lab operates safely and efficiently.
• Shape the look and feel of the Challenge Lab to align with the Museum’s vision for visitor engagement.
• Research trends in maker education to keep the Challenge Lab at the forefront of STEAM education.

Job description

Reporting to the Hands-on Experience Manager, the Challenge Lab Lead is an energetic, professional individual with a passion for delivering high-quality, STEAM-based programs to audiences of all ages. These programs will primarily take place in-person in the Museum’s onsite maker/engineering/technology space, Challenge Lab. The educator will work with the Hands-on Experience Manager and the rest of the Challenge Lab team to develop original and engaging maker-based programming and execute them for a variety of ages and skill levels. The Challenge Lab Lead will assist in training employees and volunteers in maker-based programming and teaching engagement techniques as well as equipment best practices. They will prepare order lists, maintain equipment and ensure that the Challenge Lab is adequately supplied to run efficiently. The lead is responsible for ensuring that the Perot Museum maker-based programs are innovative, engaging, fun and at the forefront of STEAM education in the Metroplex.
Duties & Responsibilities

• Execute and develop Challenge Lab curriculum and programming.
• Assess program supply inventory and provide material lists for Challenge Lab.
• Create procedures and protocols (manual and operating checklist) to properly run and maintain the Challenge Lab and its programs, in addition to periodic training of staff and volunteers.
• Ensure that Challenge Lab equipment is maintained and in proper working order.
• In collaboration with the hands-on experience manager and other team members, continue to shape the look, layout and feel of the Challenge Lab to best suit the Museum’s vision and for optimal visitor engagement.
• Continually research new trends in maker-related education programs, equipment and other technologies to keep the Challenge Lab relevant and a leader in STEAM-oriented learning.
• Network with other institutions with similar makerspace and/or engineering/tech-related programs, both local and nationally.
• Serve as liaison to Volunteer department in scheduling and training volunteers for Challenge Lab needs, such as special events, supply preparation and more.
• Assist with safety, program and presentation training for volunteers and staff.
• Responsible for the operations of other guest engagements including supply prep, set-up, clean-up, and implementation.
• Keep accurate records of program attendance, equipment, purchasing and supply inventories.
• Maintain program processes, safety, and procedures to ensure high quality programming and efficient operations.
• Assist in cross-department workload to accomplish all short and long-term institutional program goals.
• Must be available to work weekend and evening hours.
• Other duties as assigned.
  

Supervisory Responsibilities: No.