STEM Planetarium Instructor

The Lower Eastside Girls Club of New York; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 34,000 - 90,000; Part time

Job summary

The Lower Eastside Girls Club of New York is seeking a part-time Planetarium Instructor for Fall programming. You will develop curriculum, teach engaging classes, and facilitate field trips in our planetarium.

Responsibilities include presenting planetarium shows, maintaining equipment, and collaborating with the programs team to create new STEM programs while promoting events to a diverse audience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a STEM field or equivalent experience.
• Experience with teaching, public speaking, or educational outreach in STEM.
• Familiarity with planetarium operations and equipment.

Responsibilities

• Develop interactive astronomy-based STEM lessons for 5th–12th graders.
• Present engaging planetarium shows and field trips.
• Create curriculum and teaching materials aligned with standards.
• Operate and maintain planetarium equipment and ensure high-quality presentations.
• Collaborate with the programs team to design new STEM programs and events.
• Engage audiences and answer questions during shows and sessions.
• Assist in marketing planetarium events and STEM programs.
• Maintain attendance, evaluations, and feedback records.
• Stay updated on STEM and astronomy developments.

Education

Bachelor's degree in STEM fields

Tools

OpenSpace Astrovisualization

Job description

The Lower Eastside Girls Club is seeking a Planetarium Instructor to join our program team for Fall programming! Reporting to the Senior Manager: STEAM Programs, the Instructor will be responsible for developing curriculum, teaching engaging classes, creating new content for our after-school programs, and facilitating engaging field trips for visitors to our very own planetarium.

Our fall programming offers a wide variety of free classes for girls and gender-expansive youth. Classes span a range of disciplines, including arts, sciences, leadership, entrepreneurship, and wellness. All programs take place throughout our state-of-the-art community center on 8th Street and Avenue D.

Position Overview:

As a part-time STEM and planetarium instructor, your role involves developing interactive lessons, presenting captivating planetarium shows, and fostering a love for learning. This position allows you to share your expertise, engage diverse audiences, and contribute to inspiring the next generation of scientists and space enthusiasts. Your dedication to education and ability to make complex concepts accessible will play a vital role in creating memorable and enriching experiences. Strong communication skills and a passion for education are essential for this role.

In this role, the Planetarium Instructor will teach 1 Middle School after-school class per week, host field trip groups in our planetarium twice a week, and assist with the maintenance of our planetarium and its equipment. Friday availability is highly preferred.

• Conduct engaging and interactive astronomy-based STEM lessons for 5th to 12th-grade learners, fostering a deep understanding of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics concepts.
• Develop curriculum and teaching materials that align with educational standards and cater to diverse learning styles.
• Deliver informative and captivating planetarium field trip shows to both educational groups and the general public.
• Operate and maintain planetarium equipment, ensuring seamless and high-quality presentations.
• Collaborate with the programs team to design and implement new programs, workshops, and events that enhance STEM learning and astronomy appreciation.
• Answer questions from participants about STEM topics and astronomy during planetarium shows and educational sessions.
• Assist in marketing and promoting planetarium events and STEM programs to attract a wider audience.
• Maintain accurate records of attendance, evaluations, and feedback related to educational programs.
• Stay updated on the latest developments in STEM fields and astronomy to provide current and relevant content.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a STEM-related discipline (e.g., physics, astronomy, engineering, education) or equivalent experience.
• Previous experience in teaching, public speaking, or educational outreach related to STEM subjects.
• Experience with Astrovisualization software, OpenSpace.
• Computer Literacy
• Familiarity with planetarium operations and equipment is advantageous.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with an ability to make complex concepts accessible to diverse audiences.
• Passion for both STEM education and astronomy, with a knack for inspiring curiosity and interest in learners.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail for planning and coordinating educational sessions and events.

Hourly Rate:

The salary for this position is $65 per hour for class instruction and $25 per hour for administrative, curriculum design, event, and field-trip facilitation.