Cohort Lead Instructor: SPIN Forward

STEM Paths Innovation Network; Renton (WA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 41,000; Part time

Job summary

STEM Paths Innovation Network (SPIN) seeks a part-time Cohort Lead Instructor to support SPIN Forward events on Saturdays. You will guide cohorts of up to 20 students, facilitate icebreakers, and deliver project-based STEM curricula across grades, with prep and meetings weekly.

No formal STEM background required; strong desire to work with diverse youth, willingness to learn, and ability to lift equipment and travel between sites are essential.

Qualifications

• Experience with class management and/or willingness to learn.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Comfort with technology and openness to learning new software.
• Outstanding problem solving, time management, and organizational skills.
• Commitment to providing all kids with equal education opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate classes of up to 20 students focusing on STEM topics.
• Assist SPIN staff with curriculum prep, program logistics, student/family/mentor relations, and attendance/event records.
• Collaborate with other staff and provide needed reporting materials to SPIN and to our funding partners.
• Attend required training and check-ins, maintain attendance and discipline records, administer and submit assessments

Skills

Class management

Communication

Tech proficiency

Time management

Organizational skills

Travel

Background check

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Suite

Job description

BACKGROUND: STEM Paths Innovation Network (SPIN) is a nonprofit offering K-12 instruction, mentoring and program development in science, technology, engineering, math and art. Our mission is to create equity and opportunities for youth to succeed in science, technology, arts and math one student at a time. SPIN leverages innovative technology to deliver classes in robotics, game development, basic electronics, art/modeling, and other services with the goal of helping youth visualize careers in STEM based fields.

SPIN Forward Program: SPIN Forward is a four-year, cohort-based STEM program for 6th-10th girls and gender-expansive youth of color in King County. Students participate in events throughout the school year and a Capstone Presentation. Students are paired with female mentors working in or studying STEM fields.

Position: Cohort Lead Instructor (4 positions open)

Reports to: SPIN Forward Program Manager

The Cohort Lead is an hourly, part time position responsible for supporting our SPIN Forward program, with other duties as assigned. Estimated 8-12 hours/week. Weekend work is required. SPIN will provide curriculum, technology training, and professional development in classroom management and culturally responsive pedagogy. Ideal candidates will bring a desire to work with kids and a willingness to learn! We strongly encourage people to apply who have lived experience that is reflective of the economically and racially diverse students and families that we serve. Leads do not need a formal STEM background.

The Cohort Lead is responsible for leading one cohort of SPIN Forward students during each SPIN Forward event. There are 11 SPIN Forward events that take place on Saturdays each month between August – June. The Cohort Lead will lead students through ice breakers to facilitate team building, teach a variety of project-based curricula depending on grade level, and chaperone visits to Field Day partners. On a monthly basis, this role requires a minimum 2 - 3 hours of prep time prior to an event to review the agenda, the curriculum, and to prep materials and 2 - 3 hours of meeting with the SPIN Forward Program Manager (PM) to discuss the agenda & the curriculum and go over any questions and concerns. Each month there will be at least 5 hours dedicated to lab and/or field day events. The Lead must take attendance, support mentors & students, and update the PM with any issues or concerns that may arise.

APPLICANTS MUST BE AVAILABLE THE FOLLOWING SATURDAYS:

• August 29, 2026
• September 26, 2026
• October 24, 2026
• November 14th, 2026
• December 5th, 2026
• January 23, 2027
• February 20, 2027
• March 20, 2027
• April 17, 2027
• May 15, 2027
• May 22, 2027
• June 12, 2027

RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES:

• Facilitate classes of up to 20 students focusing on STEM topics.
• Assist SPIN staff with curriculum prep, program logistics, student/family/mentor relations, and attendance/event records.
• Collaborate with other staff and provide needed reporting materials to SPIN and to our funding partners.
• Attend required training and check-ins, maintain attendance and discipline records, administer and submit assessments

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience with class management and/or willingness to learn.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Comfort with technology and openness to learning new software.
• Outstanding problem solving, time management, and organizational skills.
• Commitment to providing all kids with equal education opportunities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office & Google Suite.
• Quick turnaround on communications via phone and email.
• High level of flexibility and adaptability to meet changing work goals and demands.
• Ability to travel to multiple program sites and support logistical deliveries.
• Must be able to pass a SPIN’s background check.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. and perform loading and unloading of equipment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS SKILLS:

• Valid driver’s license and automobile insurance.
• Experience working with low-income students, included but not limited to Title 1 schools, and a familiarity with the unique gifts and needs of this population.
• Multilingual, specifically in Spanish or Somali.

Diversity Statement: SPIN is committed to seeking and sustaining a culturally and

ethnically diverse staff and to the principles that promote inclusive practices. SPIN is dedicated to building a diverse staff with expertise and interest in serving students and families with diverse needs, backgrounds, ethnicities, abilities and other distinct characteristics in respectful, sensitive and understanding ways.

Equal opportunity employment: STEM Paths Innovation Network is an equal

opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on merit and business needs, and not on the basis of race, sex/gender, religion/creed, pregnancy, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, national origin, genetic markers, military or veterans status, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.