Opens February 24, 2015; applications must be received by 5:00 p.m. EDT on March 13, 2015. Expected start date is May 14, 2015.
This position is located in the Jerome and Dorothy Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and Innovation (Lemelson Center) at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History (NMAH) in Washington, DC under the direct supervision of the Interpretive Exhibit Manager. The Lead Facilitator is responsible for delivering compelling visitor experiences in Spark!Lab, a hands-on invention space for children and families, and assisting other Spark!Lab staff in developing and implementing evaluation of the Spark!Lab experience.
The Lemelson Center is dedicated to exploring invention in history and encouraging inventive creativity in young people.
The Lead Facilitator will:
- Work cooperatively with the staff and volunteers to present educational programs in Spark!Lab for general Museum visitors, specifically children and families, ensuring a positive Spark!Lab experience by greeting visitors; engaging visitors through conversation, inquiry and experimentation; helping to present facilitated invention challenges and offering assistance and encouragement at self-directed activities.
- Assist with daily operations to open, operate, and close Spark!Lab, according to procedures, performing routine maintenance, including inspecting for damaged or missing materials, replenishing supplies, keeping equipment cleaned and organized, and reporting problems appropriately.
- Assist with the planning, development and implementation of informal and formal evaluation of for Spark!Lab.
- Generally assist with other Lemelson Center activities as requested
The best qualified applicants will have experience working in a hands-on education space, with a variety of personalities, learning styles, and age groups. Experience with evaluative techniques and interpretation of data is helpful. The position will require frequent walking, bending, standing and moderate lifting.
This is a part-time, Trust (non-Federal) position at IS-5, Step 1. The hourly rate is $16.66, with benefits. Required schedule includes weekends and some holidays. To apply, please submit by email a cover letter, resume by 5:00 p.m. EDT on March 13, 2015:
Laurel Fehrenbach
Interpretive Exhibit Manager
Lemelson Center for the Study of Invention and Innovation
National Museum of American History, Smithsonian
14th Street and Constitution Avenue, NW
MRC 604, PO Box 37012
Washington, DC 20013-7012
fehrenbachl@si.edu - Email
The Smithsonian is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities, and candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
