Teaching Assistant, College First Program

Chicago Botanic Garden; Glencoe (IL); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a passionate Teaching Assistant for their transformative summer program. This role involves collaborating with STEM educators to empower underrepresented students through an immersive environmental science curriculum. You will design engaging activities, mentor students in research projects, and contribute to program planning, all while fostering a positive learning environment. Join this mission-driven organization and make a meaningful impact on the next generation of environmental stewards.

Qualifications

• One year of science teaching experience in formal or informal settings.
• Ability to develop culturally responsive STEM curricula.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement hands-on classroom activities and labs.
• Mentor students through independent research projects.

Skills

Science Teaching Experience

Curriculum Development

Organizational Skills

Fluency in Spanish

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science

Bachelor's Degree in Biology

Related STEM Field Degree

Job description

Title: Teaching Assistant, College First Program

Exemption Status: Non-Exempt

Department: Education

Reports to: Manager of Science Career Continuum

Seasonal: Full-time

Supervises: Students in College First

Position Overview

Join forces with passionate STEM educators and support a transformative summer course at the Chicago Botanic Garden. Assist in empowering 20 underrepresented Chicago Public School juniors and seniors through a seven-week immersive program (June – August, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.) alongside lead instructors and a fellow teaching assistant. Support the development and delivery of an engaging environmental science curriculum by assisting with instruction, guiding research projects, facilitating activities, providing student support, and contributing to program planning and assessment. Foster a positive learning environment that empowers students and prepares them for academic success, supporting the next generation of environmental stewards in partnership with Wright Community College.

Responsibilities

1. Design and implement hands-on classroom activities and labs to create collaborative and stimulating learning environments.
2. Co-deliver lectures and lead youth activities at the Chicago Botanic Garden and off-site locations.
3. Mentor students through independent research projects, culminating in presentations.
4. Assist in administering and analyzing pre- and post-program assessments to evaluate student learning and program effectiveness.
5. Contribute to planning and leading Friday field trips aligned with program themes and curriculum.

Qualifications

1. At least one year of science teaching experience with high school students in formal or informal settings.
2. Bachelor's degree in environmental science, biology, or a related STEM field.
3. Understanding of student development theory, especially for first-generation, low-income, and students of color.
4. Ability to develop culturally responsive STEM curricula.
5. Strong organizational and administrative skills, including data management.
6. Fluency in Spanish is a plus but not required.

Physical Demands

This role involves indoor and outdoor work, requiring physical activities such as standing, walking, and bending. Effective communication skills and proficiency with standard office equipment are necessary. Occasional lifting of items under 30 pounds may be required.

Why Apply?

Support our mission: We cultivate the power of plants to sustain and enrich life. Join us and help make the Garden a treasure of the Forest Preserves of Cook County. Apply today. Applicants must meet the minimum qualifications to be considered.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or other protected classes.

Disclaimer

The above statements describe the general nature of work performed and are not exhaustive. For questions regarding Title IX, contact our Coordinator at [phone]. Please do not use this number for job inquiries or solicitations.