Museum Facilitator; Temporary​/Part-Time

Overview

The Columbia Memorial Space Center brings the wonder and excitement of science and innovation to visitors of all ages. It is a hands‑on space museum and activity center that strives to be the most accessible science‑based experience in the Los Angeles area. While acknowledging the rich aerospace history of Southern California, the Space Center focuses on the future, working to be the hub of innovative science learning throughout the region by reaching out to all of its communities with activities focused on critical thinking, creativity, technology and science.

The Space Center is owned and operated by the City of Downey. It sits on the site of the former NASA Downey facility and is the official national memorial to the Space Shuttle Columbia by a joint resolution of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. The Space Center honors the crew of STS‑107 lost on February 1, 2003.

The Museum Facilitator coordinates and implements one or more specialized activities. Positions are utilized throughout the Space Center and at programs, and may be assigned to the Challenger Learning Center, field trips, off‑site programs and early childhood programs.

Temporary and part‑time appointments are offered for off‑site program delivery and on‑site program delivery with specified availability schedules. Temporary/part‑time appointments do not qualify for City benefits, except for those required by law.

Persons in this classification are expected to deliver Space Center programs effectively and provide a positive customer experience.

• Greet, engage, and interact with all guests throughout Space Center and its programs.
• Promptly respond to visitor needs and inquiries.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the Space Center mission and learning framework by utilizing open‑ended facilitation strategies.
• Lead and/or assist with Space Center field trips, Challenger Learning Center, and special programs and events.
• Assist visitors by providing information regarding museum exhibits, programs, events and services.
• Perform museum opening and closing procedures.
• Perform setup and breakdown duties for Space Center facility rentals and events.
• Enforce Space Center policy and safety procedures in all exhibit and program areas.
• Provide exceptional customer service to all guests in person, over the phone, and/or via email.
• Maintain records of programs and provide feedback regarding program effectiveness.
• Maintain inventory of supplies and museum equipment.
• Cultivate a strong and positive team atmosphere by actively listening, supporting and recognizing team members.
• Appreciate, recognize and mentor volunteers by working cooperatively and modeling best practices.
• Assist with upkeep of Space Center equipment, facility and exhibits.
• Assist in the development and implementation of programming (outreach, camps, workshops, etc.).
• Attend and engage in staff meetings and trainings.
• Stay updated on all Space Center happenings, exhibits, events, programs, policies and procedures.
• Provide front desk support.
• Maintain a fun and professional demeanor.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Age: Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Experience: Two (2) years of experience in the implementation of structured education or museum programs.
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent. Enrollment in an accredited college or university with major coursework in Education, Science, Museum Studies, Engineering or a related field is desirable.
• Spanish/English bilingual speaking skills are desired.
• Knowledge of procedures for implementing a variety of educational activities and programs through visitor participation; common educational and social needs of various age groups; correct English usage, grammar, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary; interpersonal skills using tact, patience, and courtesy; principles and applications of the Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Ability to coordinate, organize and implement specialized events and programs; understand community needs in a variety of areas and evaluate activities according to those needs; identify methods to maximize service effectiveness and…