Museum Educator

University of Minnesota; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 28,929 - 31,684; Part time

Job summary

University of Minnesota Bell Museum in Minnesota is seeking a Museum Educator to implement educational programming for diverse audiences, primarily K-12 students during field trips. The role includes on-site preparation, materials management and supporting the visitor experience.

Responsibilities cover delivering hands-on science labs, greeting and guiding groups, and assisting with program logistics. Flexible hours are available, with up to 14 hours weekly and some weekend shifts being

Qualifications

• BA or BS in science or education or related field with at least 2 years of experience, or 6 years combined related education and work experience.
• A minimum of 2 years experience working with K-12 youth in a formal, informal or museum educational setting.
• Experience working with culturally and age-diverse populations.
• Flexible schedule with daytime availability.
• Demonstrated ability to create a welcoming and positive atmosphere for all (staff, volunteers, event hosts, general public, etc.).

Responsibilities

• Deliver programming that engages a diverse range of learners and encourages participation through interactive teaching techniques.
• Greet teachers, chaperones and students, and direct student groups throughout the museum.
• Teach up to 4 hands-on science lab experiences per day to K-12 students across astronomy, biology, arts, physical sciences and engineering.
• Assist in visit preparation and other logistics for education programs.
• Utilize the Bell Museum's interpretative style and inquiry-based teaching to provide accurate science knowledge.
• Assist inventory and organize supplies needed for school programs and labs.
• Step in to support PESL or SWE programs and the visitors' experience as needed, including on-site and offsite outreach.

Job description

About the Job

Bell Museum
College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences (CFANS)
Position Title: Museum Educator
Reports To: School Programs Coordinator
U Classification: Education Program Associate 2
Appointment: Casual Non Exempt (<14 hours/week)
Working hours: Hours are flexible with a minimum of zero weekly and a maximum of 14 hours weekly and will vary. May be scheduled Tuesday through Friday 8:00am - 4:00pm, for 2-8 hour shifts, depending on need.
Working location: In person based out of Bell Museum, St Paul Campus.
Pay rate: $21.91/hour

Position Overview

The purpose of the Museum Educator position is to implement educational programming to diverse audiences, primarily K-12 students during field trips at the Bell Museum. This includes logistical aspects of programming including materials management and on-site preparation. The person in this position will also support other aspects of the on-site visitor experience, including K-12 students, groups, and other museum visitors.

Major Areas of Accountability (with percentages)

School Programs Delivery (90%)

• Deliver programming that engages a diverse range of learners and encourages participation through the use of interactive teaching techniques and skills.
• Greet teachers, chaperones and students, and direct student groups throughout the museum.
• Teach up to 4 hands-on science lab experiences per day to K-12 students. Lab content spans astronomy, biology, arts, physical sciences, and engineering practice.
• Assist in visit preparation and other logistics for education programs.
• Utilize the Bell Museum's interpretative style and inquiry-based teaching techniques to provide accurate science-related knowledge to learners of all ages.
• Assist inventory and organize supplies needed for school programs/labs.

Support Public Engagement and Science Learning (PESL) and Statewide Engagement (SWE) Programs (10%)

• Step in to support PESL or SWE programs and the visitors' experience on the museum floor, in classrooms, and offsite outreach venues as needed, including the delivery of programs and participation in special event programming.

Working Hours

• Must be available to work scheduled 2 to 8 hour shifts between the hours of 8:00am - 4:00pm, Tuesday through Friday.
• Must submit monthly availability three weeks before the first date of next month, or as requested.
• Hours are flexible with a minimum of zero weekly and a maximum of 14 hours weekly and will vary.
• Ability to work weekend/evening shifts is desired, but not required.
• Some on-call work may be available to cover unexpected staff absence.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• BA or BS in science or education or related field with at least 2 years of experience, or 6 years combined related education and work experience.
• A minimum of 2 years experience working with K-12 youth in a formal, informal or museum educational setting.
• Experience working with culturally and age-diverse populations.
• Flexible schedule with daytime availability.
• Demonstrated ability to create a welcoming and positive atmosphere for all (staff, volunteers, event hosts, general public, etc.).

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of best practices in informal science education and inquiry-based learning.
• Formal education or experience in science and STEM curriculum delivery and program implementation, with demonstrated track record of excellence in teaching.
• Creative, enthusiastic and thrives working in a team setting.
• Ability to be flexible, dependable, adaptable, and have a sense of humor in a high stress, fast-paced environment.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $21.91 depending on education/qualifications/experience.

Please visit the Office of Student Health Benefits website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

Student workers are eligible to participate in the Student Health Benefit Plan, if they maintain 6 or more eligible course credits within a given semester. The same applies for Undergraduate Students, Graduate Assistants, Residents, Fellows and Interns.

Application Deadline: 09/25/2026