Training Coordinator

Training Coordinator

The Training Coordinator is responsible for the training and youth development of the Explainers and youth interns associated with the vision and mission of the Science Career Ladder. This means ensuring that diverse STEM content and concepts, related to the NYSCI exhibits, current events, and other NYSCI programs and associated funded work are well understood, that STEM communication and visitor-focused facilitation techniques are developed and well-executed, and help sustain the alignment with positive and current youth development and workforce practices.

Together with the Manager of Training and Content who works closely with the Director of Youth Programs and Pathways, the Training Coordinator co-creates, documents, and delivers training, workshops, and demonstrations that embrace inquiry, communication, creativity, problem-solving, conflict resolution, leadership, and collaboration.

Training and Implementation

• Foster empowerment among youth participants through the creation and facilitation of captivating training sessions aligned with NYSCI's learning goals.
• Conduct training sessions for all levels of the Science Career Ladder on floor interactions, STEM content, demonstrations, cart activities, and other activities that support visitor engagement.
• Establish and maintain sustainable documentation processes for training and professional development initiatives, ensuring comprehensive, well-organized records are created and maintained to support ongoing learning and growth within the organization.
• Assess Explainers' content, facilitation development, and growth in training, along with the Daily Operations team, and recommend promotions.

Program Design

• Support the development and testing of new demonstrations and other floor activities that emphasize inquiry and the scientific and design processes.
• Review, assess, and assist in the use, management, and possible redesign of the Explainer resource page
• Work with other departments to develop new opportunities for Explainers in communicating science.
• Consult with experts in each field that reflects the accuracy of content and methods used in that discipline.
• Curate and integrate devices to use as Apron Tools by Explainers on the museum floor and in demonstrations.
• Work with the Manager of Training and Content and Program Manager of the Science Career Ladder on program development.

Leadership

• Mentorship of high school- and college-aged Explainers to support their growth and development in their roles and in skills that can be transferred to their next academic and career steps.
• Participate in regular reflections (verbal and written) of self and of staff.
• Attend professional development seminars on STEM training and content, and disseminate ideas to the broader department.
• Participate in the interview and orientation process of new staff.
• Assist in SCL program evaluation and assessment.

Assessment

• Under the supervision of the Manager of Training and Content, coordinates with the Daily Operations team to assess Explainers, provide constructive feedback and address areas for growth, and make recommendations for promotions and terminations.

Additional responsibilities include:

• Represent the Explainer department at meetings.
• Assist with other Explainer Department programs and responsibilities as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Explainers as it relates to training and floor activities.
• Other related duties and responsibilities, as assigned

• Education: Bachelor's Degree in Education, Sciences, Museum Studies, Social Sciences, or a related field; and/or equivalent work experience
• Experience: 3+ years' experience in a museum, youth/workforce development organization
• Knowledge of science, technology, engineering, and math concepts, theories, processes, and their real-life and relevant applications
• Experience developing innovative content for informal settings with a focus on youth development and science communication.
• Knowledge of youth development and programmatic responses to youth strengths and needs.

• Ability to plan and organize others' activities.
• Ability to get ideas accepted and to guide a group or individual to accomplish the task
• Ability to develop a budget and manage resources.
• Ability to assist in establishing long-term objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them. Co-develop policies, procedures, methods & standards within the department.
• Work with the Science Career Ladder team to identify Explainer developmental needs, and then coach, mentor, or otherwise support Explainers in improving their knowledge or skills.
• Assist in monitoring and evaluating Explainer performance and in recommending and implementing personnel actions, such as promotions and dismissals.

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods during training sessions
• Carry materials up to 50 lbs (Science demonstration materials)
• Move around the museum to different exhibit areas