STEM Instructor- After School (East Garfield Park)

NextWave STEM; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 21,000 - 39,000; Part time

Job summary

NextWave STEM is seeking a STEM Instructor for after-school programs at a partner school in Chicago, IL. You will lead engaging, hands-on STEM/STEAM lessons for K–12 students on-site, delivering NextWave curricula such as 3‑D design, drone coding, and game design.

You will prepare materials, set up equipment, guide activities, manage behavior, track progress, and communicate updates to staff and coordinators. Training may be required and collaboration with other instructors is possible.

Qualifications

• Experience teaching or tutoring K–12 students in STEM/STEAM.
• Strong classroom management and student engagement skills.
• Ability to deliver hands-on lessons with tools such as game design, coding, 3‑D design, drones.

Responsibilities

• Prepare instructional materials for each session.
• Set up and maintain classroom equipment.
• Facilitate activities and student projects.
• Track student participation and progress.
• Communicate program updates to school staff and NextWave STEM coordinators.

Skills

STEM education

Classroom management

Hands-on instruction

Communication

Student engagement

Safety protocols

Education

Associate or bachelor’s degree in Education or STEM

Job description

Company Description

NextWave STEM is an education organization focused on preparing K–12 students for the future of STEAM, Career and Technical Education (CTE), and Computer Science. The company provides schools and educators with a full suite of tools and courses in areas such as AI literacy, drones, hydroponics, robotics, and cybersecurity. Its programs are designed to integrate into existing school schedules, with options during the school day, after school, and in summer, and curricula available in both English and Spanish. NextWave STEM also offers professional development for teachers, supporting them in delivering innovative, hands‑on learning experiences. The goal is to empower schools to cultivate a generation of innovators and leaders ready for tomorrow’s challenges.

Role Description

The STEM Instructor – After School (East Garfield Park) will lead engaging, hands‑on STEM and STEAM lessons for K–12 students in an after‑school setting at a partner school in Chicago, IL. This is an on‑site, contract role focused on delivering NextWave STEM’s curriculum, including topics such as 3‑D design, drone coding, game design and related emerging technologies, in a clear and accessible way. Day‑to‑day responsibilities include preparing instructional materials, setting up and maintaining classroom equipment, facilitating activities and projects, and providing guidance and support to students of diverse backgrounds and learning styles. The instructor will also manage classroom behavior, ensure a safe and inclusive learning environment, track student participation and progress, and communicate program updates or concerns to school staff and NextWave STEM coordinators. The role may involve collaborating with other instructors, attending training sessions, and offering feedback to improve curriculum and instructional practices.

Qualifications

• Experience teaching or tutoring K–12 students in STEM, STEAM, or related subjects, with strong classroom management and student engagement skills.
• Ability to deliver hands‑on lessons in areas such as game design, coding, 3‑D design, drones, or other technology‑focused activities, with willingness to learn new tools and platforms.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, including the ability to explain complex concepts clearly to learners at different levels.
• Demonstrated commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive environment for students of all backgrounds and abilities.
• Reliability in a school‑based setting, including punctuality, professionalism, and adherence to school and program policies.
• Comfort working on‑site in Chicago, IL, during after‑school hours, and ability to follow all safety and child protection protocols.
• Preferred: Experience in informal education, after‑school programs, camps, or youth organizations, and familiarity with project‑based learning.
• Preferred: Associate or bachelor’s degree in Education, STEM field, or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience.