Part-Time Learning Facilitator

Overview

TITLE: Part-Time Learning Facilitator
DEPARTMENT: Learning Programs
REPORTS TO: Manager, Youth & Family Programs
STATUS: Part-Time, Non-Exempt
PAY RATE: $20.00/hr
LOCATION: Onsite - Chicago, IL

TIME COMMITMENT/

SCHEDULE:

• Approximately 24 hours, 3 days per week.
• This position requires the ability to work evenings, weekends, overnight hours, and holidays as needed. Schedules often change seasonally, dependent on programmatic needs.
• Will work at Shedd Aquarium and in off-site locations.

The Learning Programs Department develops and delivers learning experiences outside of or in addition to a regular visit and provides opportunities for learners to dive deeper. We serve audiences across Learning Programs, including students, teachers, teens, youth outside of school, and families. Programming includes, but is not limited to, camps, school experiences, teacher professional development, out-of-school-time programming for youth and teens, and family engagements at Shedd Aquarium, in off-site locations, and in online environments.

The Learning Facilitator’s primary role is to deliver programming tailored for learners (K-12 students, youth, teachers, families, adults, and middle/high school teens). Facilitators use learner-centered strategies to encourage critical thinking about the natural world and to incorporate relevant content knowledge. The Learning Facilitator will implement programs with team collaboration as appropriate and assist with daily setup and preparation before and after each program.

The role demonstrates ownership and autonomy in each program cycle and contributes to a culture of collaboration, with reflective activities related to instructional quality. This position is primarily responsible for facilitating learning experiences at Shedd, in the field, in local communities, and in online environments.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Demonstrate leadership in accordance with Shedd’s mission, vision, and values
• Facilitate engaging, learner-centered programs aligned to programmatic goals and outcomes
• Stay current on relevant best practices (instructional strategies, content areas, etc.)
• Utilize resources such as live animals, local natural areas, technology, and other tools
• Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability
• Work with various audience groups on teams or independently
• Maintain resources, materials, and programming spaces
• Continually incorporate assessment data in program facilitation
• Participate in project-related and skills-based trainings
• Collaborate with internal and external partners
• Actively participate in professional development
• Use diverse, equitable, accessible, inclusive, and justice (DEAIJ) practices in lesson design
• Fulfill other duties as required

Education: Pursuing or holding a Bachelor’s degree in education, life science, environmental science, museum studies, or a related field, or equivalent experience.

Experience:

• Some experience engaging with learners in formal or informal settings
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Willingness to be trained to handle animals for education programs
• Willingness to implement programs in water and/or in wilderness settings
• A valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain one
• Read, write, speak, and comprehend English
• Communicate professionally with various audiences
• Understand basic mathematical relationships and formulas
• Solve problems using available information and resources
• Experience and comfort using a computer and basic writing, presentation and spreadsheet applications
• Learn new technology and new computer applications
• Willing to be CPR and first aid certified (advanced wilderness/outdoor training may be required in some situations);
  Shedd will provide these trainings as needed

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with students, teens, youth, and/or families from Chicago communities or other urban areas
• Experience with culturally relevant science education practices and instructional strategies
• Experience facilitating environmental education…