+ Part-Time - STEM Program Facilitator

Job Description
GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES:

The STEM Program Facilitator will help facilitate many of the Christa McAuliffe Center's in-person STEM education programs, including: simulation of space missions in the Challenger Learning Center for K-12 students (the main responsibility), family engagement days, and other outreach events.

All McAuliffe Center programs cover a wide range of science content complemented by opportunities to practice teamwork, problem-solving, and strategic-thinking challenges. All programs contain accurate and relevant STEM principles or concepts in a way that both educates and inspires further interest in STEM learning.

• The STEM Program Facilitator is mainly responsible for facilitating activities for students in grades 5-9.
• The STEM Program Facilitator is a person who is comfortable with science content and is eager to learn more.
• The STEM Program Facilitator is confident in using education technology for the facilitation of a wide range of learning experiences.
• The STEM Program Facilitator engages students through the use of role-play and dynamic presentation styles.
• The STEM Program Facilitator is a strong team player, organized, and committed to meet the needs of diverse learners who visit the Center.
• A good planner, the STEM Program Facilitator is able to quickly adapt to changes in the daily program or schedule of activities.
• The STEM Program Facilitator is available to occasionally work evenings and weekends.
• The STEM Program Facilitator is accountable for ensuring that affirmative action, equal opportunity, and diversity are integrally tied to all actions and decisions within areas of responsibility.
• Individuals who are bilingual (Portuguese and Spanish) are strongly encouraged to apply.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: N/A

SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Assistant Director

EXAMPLES OF SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Facilitate programs in the Challenger Learning Center for middle and high school students
• Facilitate additional hands-on programs for elementary school students and up
• Set up, clean up, and maintain education program environments
• Monitor program materials and make updates when appropriate
• Contribute, via reviews and feedback, to the creation of new education programs

Example of work schedule and expectations:

• Work schedules can be flexible, but time will be distributed between:
  • Facilitating in the Challenger Learning Center between the hours of 8:30am - 2:00pm
  • Assisting other duties and out-of-school time programming implemented during occasional evenings, weekends, and school vacation weeks. They include:
    • CLC programs for Scouts and OST groups during evening and weekend visits
    • Special activities for Massachusetts STEM Week and the McAuliffe Center’s annual science festival
    • Stargazing events
    • Professional development and networking opportunities

WORKING CONDITIONS:

This position is part-time, not to exceed 18 hours per week, and in-person. A uniform will be provided for use in all Challenger Learning Center programs.

Schedule must be flexible in order to accommodate the scheduling needs of all groups we serve. Occasional work on evenings and weekends is required.

Job Requirements
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associates or Bachelor’s Degree
  • OR an equivalent combination of academic and professional experience
• Relevant coursework in science at the college level
  • OR equivalent experience in a science learning context
• Demonstrated experience working in a combination of informal science education, outreach, youth development, or formal education
• Demonstrated ability to learn and adapt to new software and digital technologies and troubleshoot
• Demonstrated commitment to a high standard of inclusive educational practice
• Demonstrated ability to adapt to the needs of a diverse range of audiences representing a wide range of ages, backgrounds, and abilities
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative in the work environment, work successfully both as part of a team and independently
• Fluency in Spanish or Portuguese are desired though not required

Additional Information

This is a part-time non-benefited, contract position, not to exceed 18 hours per week. The pay rate is $22/hour to $24/hour.

Framingham State University conducts criminal history and sexual offender record checks on recommended finalists prior to final employment for all positions.

Framingham State University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

Members of underrepresented groups, minorities, women, veterans, persons with disabilities, and all persons committed to diversity and inclusive excellence are strongly encouraged to apply.

Application Instructions
Candidates must apply online by submitting:

• Cover Letter
• Resume/CV
• Equity and Inclusion Statement
• Names and contact information for three (3) professional references.

The search committee will accept applications up until the position is filled.

Framingham State University only accepts application materials through our online application system. We are unable to accept application materials through mail, email, fax, or hand delivery. If you experience technical issues with the online application process, please submit a helpdesk ticket.

Framingham State University understands that persons with specific disabilities may need assistance with the job application process and/or with the interview process. For confidential assistance, please contact the Human Resources Office at 508-626-4530 or humanresources@framingham.edu.

+ Part-Time - PLANETARIUM PROGRAM PRESENTER

Job Description
GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES:

Write and perform live planetarium shows using Framingham State University’s newly-refurbished, state-of-the-art planetarium. Facilitate activities and shows for K-12 audiences, college classes, and the general public. Host special events in the planetarium. Support ongoing program and activity development. Research and develop planetarium capabilities for new interdisciplinary offerings. Assist other programs and special events as needed.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: N/A

SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Planetarium and Media Technologies Manager

EXAMPLES OF SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Performs and facilitates daily planetarium programs and activities for K-12 students and out-of-school time groups.
  
• Assists with hosting FSU undergraduate courses in the planetarium in collaboration with the Planetarium Manager and faculty.
  
• Assists in the maintenance and operation of the computer systems of the FSU Planetarium.
• Works with student interns that support the work of the planetarium. Sets a positive professional example for junior staff.
• Works with McAuliffe Center Staff to revise and develop new planetarium shows on the Center’s Sky-Skan planetarium platform. Prepares visuals, audio content, and special effects for programs.
• Assists planning, facilitating, and executing major public programs, concerts, conferences, talks, and other special events that make use of the planetarium.
• Communicate effectively with K-16 students, University staff, teachers, community agencies, and the public as required by the role.
• Works with McAuliffe Center staff to assist in facilitating and planning weekend and summer science programs for K-12 students and teachers.
• Needs to be available to occasionally work evenings and weekends.
• Accountable for ensuring that affirmative action, equal opportunity, and diversity are integrally tied to all actions and decisions in areas of responsibility.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• At least one of the following:

  • Bachelor's degree or work experience in astronomy, physics, science education, or a related field.

  • Experience writing, programming, and conducting planetarium shows as a live performer in front of an audience.

  • Strong knowledge of astronomy and physics demonstrated through facilitation of education and outreach programs, published work, or other significant work experience and accomplishments.
    
    

• Demonstrated public performance skills. This may include, but is not limited to: Stage performance, podcasting, voice acting, online streaming, vlogging, hosting live events, presenting at conferences or in similar settings, museum interpretation, tour guiding, or performing planetarium shows.

• Strong computer skills, including the ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues on Windows-based systems. Knowledge of JavaScript programming is preferred.

• Good multimedia production skills, including basic image editing, audio editing, and familiarity with common video formats.

• Experience in the facilitation of astronomy or natural sciences-related educational programming to K-16 students and public audiences of all ages.

• Hands-on experience with Sky-Skan planetarium systems, theatrical A/V technology, or other complex A/V systems preferred.

• Commitment to a high standard of educational practice and scientific integrity.

• Fluency in Portuguese is a strong plus.

Additional Information:

• This is an in-person, part-time, non-benefited, contract position, not to exceed 18 hours per week. The pay rate is $25/hour to $30/hour.
• Framingham State University conducts criminal history and sexual offender record checks on recommended finalists prior to final employment for all positions.
• Framingham State University is an equal opportunity employer. Members of underrepresented or minoritized groups, women, veterans, persons with disabilities, and all persons committed to equity, diversity, and inclusive excellence are strongly encouraged to apply.

Application Instructions:
Candidates must apply online by submitting:

• Cover Letter
  
• Resume/CV
  
• Equity and Inclusion Statement*
  
• Names and contact information for three (3) professional references (references are not contacted automatically upon submission of application)
  

*The Equity and Inclusion Statement is an opportunity for candidates to discuss professional skills, experience and/or willingness to engage in activities that would enhance the university's efforts to promote a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community. Equity and inclusion statements will be considered as part of a transparent and comprehensive review of candidate application materials.

For best consideration, please submit application materials by October 31, 2024. The review of applications may continue beyond that date and until the position is filled, at the discretion of the search committee.

Framingham State University only accepts application materials through our online application system. If you have any questions about this position, please contact rbarrossmith@framingham.edu.

+ Part-time - ENVIRONMENTAL & SUSTAINABILITY PROGRAMS COORDINATOR

Job Description
GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES:

The Environmental & Sustainability Programs Coordinator will contribute to the development and facilitation of the McAuliffe Center's in-person environmental education activities for high school students. Every year, the McAuliffe Center recruits a diverse group of students from MetroWest high schools who engage in an internship program aimed at promoting community awareness and understanding of climate, environmental, and sustainability issues. The Coordinator contributes to creating evidence-based activities to engage high school students in STEM learning and to promote changes that support the environmental well-being of local environmental justice communities.

The Environmental & Sustainability Programs Coordinator is an individual who is comfortable with environmental, general science, and engineering content andis eager to learn more; is confident in using education technology for the facilitation of a wide range of learning experiences; and is committed to meeting the needs of diverse learners. The Coordinator is organized, a good planner, and is able to quickly adapt to changes in the daily program or schedule of activities. The Coordinator has an appreciation for the connection between the impact of climate change and environmental justice and is accountable for ensuring that affirmative action, equal opportunity, and diversity are integrally tied to all actions and decisions within areas of responsibility.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: Junior Facilitators

SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Program Director

EXAMPLES OF SPECIFIC DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design and coordinate recruitment activities and onboarding of high school interns
• Facilitate high school interns’ research activities during weekend and summer programs
• Attend weekly planning meetings and contribute to the design of program activities
• Research environmental and sustainability issues affecting the local MetroWest community
• Review data collected by participating interns for quality and relevance
• Verify that students follow protocols for data sharing
• Communicate and consult with local environmental leaders and green energy industry representatives
• Report weekly to program team

WORKING CONDITIONS
Work on several weekends during the Spring semester is required. Occasional work in the evening is required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Associates or Bachelor’s Degree OR an equivalent combination of academic and professional experience, including majoring in science or engineering or a non-STEM discipline with a concentration/minor/track in environmental studies
• At least one college-level course in an environmental-related discipline
• Demonstrated interest in environmental science and environmental justice issues
• Some experience in informal science education, public outreach, and/or youth development (examples: camps, afterschool programs, scouts, etc.)
• Demonstrated ability to learn and adapt to new software and digital technologies and troubleshoot
• Demonstrated commitment to a high standard of inclusive educational practice
• Demonstrated ability to adapt to the needs of a diverse range of audiences representing a wide range of ages, backgrounds, and abilities
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative in the work environment, work successfully both as part of a team and independently
• Demonstrated application of research skills
• Demonstrated application of strong organizational skills
• Fluency in Spanish or Portuguese is desired though not required.

Additional Information:

• This is an in-person, part-time, non-benefited, contract position, not to exceed 18 hours per week. The pay rate is $22/hour to $25/hour.
• Framingham State University conducts criminal history and sexual offender record checks on recommended finalists prior to final employment for all positions.
• Framingham State University is an equal opportunity employer. Members of underrepresented or minoritized groups, women, veterans, persons with disabilities, and all persons committed to equity, diversity, and inclusive excellence are strongly encouraged to apply.

Application Instructions:
Candidates must apply online by submitting:

• Cover Letter
• Resume/CV
• Equity and Inclusion Statement*
• Names and contact information for three (3) professional references (references are not contacted automatically upon submission of application)

*The Equity and Inclusion Statement is an opportunity for candidates to discuss professional skills, experience and/or willingness to engage in activities that would enhance the university's efforts to promote a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community. Equity and inclusion statements will be considered as part of a transparent and comprehensive review of candidate application materials.

For best consideration, please submit application materials by October 1, 2024. The review of applications may continue beyond that date and until the position is filled, at the discretion of the search committee.

Framingham State University only accepts application materials through our online application system. If you have any questions about this position, please contact iporro@framingham.edu.

+ Internship - Junior Program Facilitator: Challenger Learning Center and Planetarium

Job Description
GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES:
Multiple positions available

The intern will contribute to preparing for, developing, and facilitating content and activities at the Christa McAuliffe Center's newly-renovated, state-of-the-art Planetarium and upgraded Challenger Learning Center (CLC) space mission simulator.

The intern will assist the Center's staff in developing and implementing planetarium programs that will take full advantage of the newly-redesigned facility and go far beyond a traditional show.

The intern will experience, learn, and operate the Center's upgraded CLC Spacecraft and Mission Control simulator. In the CLC, students take charge of a near-future NASA mission. Students take on the roles of crew members with diverse responsibilities, specialized knowledge, and unique tasks necessary to support the mission’s overall goals. Each mission role demonstrates a STEM career area requiring the use of 21st Century skills. The intern will be responsible for assisting with the set up of the simulator, testing and facilitating activities in the CLC, and contributing to developing training materials for future simulator facilitators.
We will continue accepting applications up until the positions are filled.

EXAMPLES OF SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Contribute to the development of new activities and content, making full use of the capabilities of the newly-installed, state-of the-art FSU Planetarium and upgraded Challenger Learning Center.
• Support the facilitation of planetarium programs for students in grades 5-9, college students, and public audiences.
• Support the set up and facilitation of mission simulations in the Challenger Learning Center for students in grades 5-9.
• Engage audiences with an emphasis on those from groups underrepresented in STEM.
• Occasional work on evenings and weekends.

INTERNSHIP REQUIREMENTS:

• Course work in STEM preferable.
• Comfortable with science content and eager to learn more. No specific science content knowledge is required, training is provided.
• Confident in using education technology for the facilitation of a wide range of learning experiences.
• Comfortable with creatively engaging students through the use of role-play and dynamic presentation styles.
• Team player, organized, and committed to meet the needs of diverse learners who visit the Center.
• Fluency in Spanish or Portuguese are desired though not required.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

• In addition to being paid, students could receive credit for the course Internship in Informal Science Education:
  • SCED 495 - Internship in Informal Science Education: A supervised experience with an educational focus in a museum, nature center, community center or other field study situation. Students with diverse academic backgrounds are able to experience learning and teaching science - specifically geared towards general population. Students are expected to work a minimum of 120 hours for one (1) course-credit. The internship program is offered through the cooperation of participating institutions, which provide professional guidance for the interns. Any student who wishes to participate in an internship must complete the application in consultation with a faculty member from the department most appropriate to the discipline no later than the end of the semester prior to the beginning of the internship. Prerequisites: Completion of at least three (3) courses in math or science prior to the start of the internship or permission of instructor; cumulative GPA of 2.50 or higher.
• Hourly rate: $16/hour

TO APPLY:
Send an email to BOTH Irene Porro (iporro@framingham.edu) AND Suzanne Wright (swright4@framingham.edu) including:

• Cover Letter
• Resume/CV
• Names and contact information for three (3) academic or professional references. NOTE: written references are not required.

We will continue accepting applications up until the positions are filled. If you have any questions about this position, please contact swright4@framingham.edu.