Coding and STEAM Educator

Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts; Mechanicsburg (Cumberland County); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts is seeking an enthusiastic educator to run in-person educational programs, focusing on STEAM for ages 8 and up. You will manage the PNC Innovation Zone and its 24 computers, delivering hands-on demonstrations and coding lessons.

The role requires weekend availability, a relevant degree, and experience teaching computer-based skills to a broad audience. Join a community-focused team delivering engaging educational experiences.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in education, CS, instructional tech, or related field.
• Coursework in computer science is required.
• Able to teach computer-based technology to varied audiences.
• Experience creating lessons for children to build PC skills.
• Experience with block-based platforms (e.g., LEGO Spike, Scratch).
• Interest in emerging technology and safe integration into programming.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver in-person educational programs for diverse audiences, focusing on the Innovation Zone.
• Lead curriculum development for Summer Innovation and Technology camps.
• Maintain and troubleshoot 24 PCs and software in the Innovation Zone; coordinate with the Director of Education.
• Lead general STEAM lessons outside the Innovation Zone as needed.
• Present demonstrations and provide information to students and guests about the Innovation Zone.

Skills

Curriculum development

Public speaking

STEM education

Lego Spike / robotics

Education

Bachelor's degree in education, CS, instructional technology, or related field

Coursework in computer science

Tools

LEGO Spike

Scratch

PC maintenance

Windows OS

Job description

STATUS: Full-Time, Exempt– Flexible Schedule

OPPORTUNITY - About Whitaker Center for Science and the Arts

Join a team that is passionate about making a difference and helping our community thrive!Our mission is to create a space in our communities through education and cultural experiences that celebrate the joy of discovery and entertainment.

About the Role

We are seeking an enthusiastic individual to interact directly with UPMC Science Center and PNC Innovation Zoneguests to facilitate their learning and experience; deliver educational programming to varied ages of students and guests, with a focus on ages 8 and up; present educational demonstrations; and assist guests in having a safe, fun, and educational experience. This position oversees the implementation and maintenance of 24 computers, plus associated equipment and software, in the PNC Innovation Zone. The ideal candidate is genuinely curious about emerging technology and is as comfortable leading general STEAM lessons as they are running the Innovation Zone.Weekend availability is required.

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop curriculum for and deliver in-person educational and public programs that appeal to a broad general audience and connect with diverse communities at the local and regional levels with a particular focus on programs in the innovation zone including field trip coding lessons, Lego Spike Robotics, and Girls Who Code.
• Contribute to Whitaker Center Summer Innovation and Technologycamps by writing curriculum and acting as a lead teacher.
• Maintain and trouble shoot the 24 PCs and associated software in the PNC Innovation Zone. Coordinate and communicate with the Director of Education regarding needs in the Innovation Zone.
• Lead general STEAM lessons and programs outside the Innovation Zone as needed, supporting the broader Education team’s offerings.
• Stay current on emerging technologyincluding AI toolsand explore ways to responsibly incorporate them into educational programming for all ages.
• Contribute to the advancement of institutional strategic priorities, and innovate programs to enliven Whitaker Center’s mission.
• Present educational demonstrations and programs, and provide information to students and guests with a focus on utilizing the Innovation Zone.
• Assist with coordination of special educational event days.
• Build and maintain an appropriate knowledge of Innovation Zone-, exhibit-, and program-related science concepts by participating in training opportunities and independent study.
• Work with the Director of Education to develop annual goals, objectives, strategic plans, and operational budget.
• Attend departmental and all-staff meetings as directed, staying informed of the ongoing changes in department and overall organization.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Director of Education.

Qualifications

• Minimum Bachelor’s degree ineducation, computer science,instructional technology,or related field required.
• Coursework in computer science is required.
• Demonstrated ability to teach computer-based technology skills in an enjoyable and engaging way to a wide range of audiences from elementary school through adults.
• Experience in developing lessons for children to help them gain skills on PCs and to better understand and use technology beneficial
• Experience with block-based or physical computing platforms (e.g., LEGO Spike, Scratch) preferred.
• Genuine interest in emerging technology and its use in educational settings.
• Ability to understand, maintain, and upgrade computer hardware and software as necessary within the PNC Innovation Zone.
• Valid PA Drivers license
• Ability to successfully complete a Pennsylvania State Police Clearance; a Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance - obtained through the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services; and a Federal Bureau of Investigation Criminal History Record Information - obtained by submitting a full set of fingerprints to the Pennsylvania State Police or its authorized agent for submission to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.