Science Education Specialist

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill; Elkins Hills (NC); On-site; USD 28,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill seeks a Science Education Specialist to join the Programs Team. This 11-month position delivers on-site and off-site education programs, supports initiatives such as the NC Science Festival, and coordinates hands-on STEM activities with duties including program admin and development opportunities.

The role may involve occasional overnight travel and flexible work locations, with a start date around 10/12/2026.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent and one year of related experience.
• Coursework in science and/or education fields.
• Bilingual fluency in English and Spanish.
• Experience in informal science education is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead hands-on STEM activities for on-site and off-site education programs.
• Provide program administrative support and help organize events.
• Test activities and assist with professional development opportunities.
• Occasional overnight travel and flexible work locations.
• Explore other areas of science education as determined by program managers.

Skills

Bilingual English and Spanish

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Coursework in science and/or education fields

Job description

Posting Information

• Department: Morehead Planetarium - 524500
• Career Area: Student Services
• Posting Open Date: 09/15/2026
• Application Deadline: 09/30/2026
• Position Type: Temporary Staff (SHRA)
• Position Title: Science Education Specialist
• Position Number: 01098072
• Vacancy ID: S028067
• Full-time/Part-time: Full-Time Temporary
• Hours per week: 40
• Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM. Occasional evenings, weekends, and overtime hours.
• Hiring Range: $20.00 - $22.00 per hour
• Proposed Start Date: 10/12/2026
• Estimated Duration of Appointment: 6 months or longer

Position Information

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks that include numerous retail and restaurant discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates for performing arts events.

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit

Morehead Planetarium and Science Center opened in 1949 as the first planetarium on a college campus in the United States. During the 1960s and 1970s, Morehead trained 62 NASA astronauts (including 11 of the 12 men who walked on the Moon) in celestial navigation.

By Morehead's 50th anniversary in 1999, more than five million spectators - half of them schoolchildren - had visited its Star Theater to learn about the cosmos.

Morehead expanded its mission in 2000, becoming not only a gateway to the stars, but a gateway to all the sciences. Today, its programming reflects the expanded mission to help people better understand science, technology, and health through state-of-the-art full dome planetarium shows, exhibits, camps, hands-on classes, and statewide outreach programming.

In 2020, Morehead completed a $9M renovation that expanded its exhibit space which now includes more than 6,000 square feet of exhibit space that highlight a range of science disciplines.

Position Summary

Morehead Planetarium & Science Center seeks a Science Education Specialist to join the Programs Team. This 11-month position provides the ideal candidate with unique opportunities to gain experience in science program execution and coordination. The Science Education Specialist will deliver Morehead on-site and off-site education programs as well as support initiatives such as the North Carolina Science Festival. Duties will include but are not limited to leading hands-on STEM activities, providing program administrative support, testing activities, and assisting with professional development opportunities. The specialist will explore other areas of science education as determined by the programs managers. Occasional overnight travel; flexible work locations possible if mutually beneficial.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

High school diploma or equivalency and one year of experience that demonstrates possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work; or equivalent combination of training and experience.

Management Preferences

• Coursework in science and/or education fields
• Experience in informal science education
• Bilingual fluency in English and Spanish

Special Physical/Mental Requirements

Ability to move/maneuver up to 50 lbs. with or without reasonable accommodation.

Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.

Special Instructions

H-1B sponsorship is not available for this position.

Quick Link

https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/325387

Temporary Employment Policies

Temporary Employment Policies

Posting Contact Information

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at [phone] or send an email to [e-mail]

Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.