K-8 Collaborator (Teacher)

Institute for Applied Tinkering; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Life insurance

Retirement match 4%

Job summary

Brightworks in San Francisco seeks world-class Educators (Collaborators) to co-create a project-based, inquiry-driven curriculum for the upcoming school year. You will lead a small cohort of 10–14 students, balancing the creative freedom of a designer with the rigorous project management of a mentor.

You will architect the student experience, designing interdisciplinary, real-world projects, and documenting growth through weekly parent communications and student-led portfolios.

Qualifications

• Experience with progressive, inquiry-based education and student agency.
• Background screenings and compliance training required.
• CPR/First Aid certification and TB testing required.
• Proficiency in Google Suite.
• Ability to lift 45 lbs and travel for off-site learning.

Responsibilities

• Curriculum co-creation: Designing interdisciplinary, real-world projects based on student interests.
• Accountability & Mentorship: Setting high standards for independent study and pacing complex projects.
• Narrative Assessment: Documenting the learning journey through weekly parent communications and student-led portfolios.
• Equity in Action: Engaging in anti-racist, gender-inclusive and welcoming environment practices.

Skills

Curriculum Co-Creation

Mentorship

Narrative Communication

Equity & Inclusion

Project Management

Reflective Practice

Adaptability

Tools

Google Suite

Job description

Seeking World-Class Educators (Collaborator)

Brightworks is not a traditional school, and our teachers aren't traditional instructors. We call them Collaborators. We are looking for visionary educators to co-create a project-based, inquiry-driven curriculum for the upcoming school year.

At Brightworks, you’ll lead a small cohort (10–14 students), balancing the creative freedom of a designer with the rigorous project management of a professional mentor.

The Role

As a Collaborator, you are the architect of the student experience. Your responsibilities include:

• Curriculum Co-Creation: Designing interdisciplinary, real-world projects based on student interests.


• Accountability & Mentorship: Setting high standards for independent study and pacing complex projects.


• Narrative Assessment: Documenting the learning journey through weekly parent communications and student-led portfolios.


• Equity in Action: Engaging in deep power and privilege work to maintain an anti-racist, gender-inclusive, and radically welcoming environment.

Who You Are

• Experienced Educator: You have a background in progressive, inquiry-based education and a deep respect for student agency.


• Professional Communicator: You bridge the gap between "candid" and "kind," writing compelling narratives of student growth.


• Project Manager: You have a strong work ethic and the ability to help students navigate ambiguity to reach concrete goals.


• Social Justice Advocate: You actively leverage conversations about identity to build equitable spaces.


• Lifelong Learner: You possess high EQ, a growth mindset, and a spirit of mutual aid.


• Reflective & Adaptive: You possess a high degree of self-awareness, regularly seeking feedback and pivoting your approach as student needs or project directions evolve.

Employment Requirements

Required

Experience: 2-3 years working with school-aged children

Compliance: Ability to pass background screening and compliance training, CPR/First Aid certification, and pass TB testing

Tech Literacy - Proficient in Google Suite

Physical Demands - Ability to lift 45 lbs and navigate the city on foot or via public transportation for off-site learning

Preferred

A background working with diverse learning styles

Benefits

Comprehensive medical/dental/vision, life/disability insurance, and a 4% immediate-vesting retirement match.

Note: Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. Brightworks is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and merit-based hiring.