Teaching and Logistics Specialist, Challenger Learning Center

Teaching and Logistics Specialist, Challenger Learning Center

We seek applicants for a full‑time position on the College's Challenger Learning Center (CLC) team to deliver high‑impact STEM instruction for middle school and junior high students. The Teaching and Logistics Specialist leads interactive teaching experiences, including hands‑on STEM lessons, interactive field trip programs, and summer STEM activities, while also training and supervising part‑time instructional staff under the guidance of the Associate Director.

The Specialist ensures consistency and quality in all learning experiences and coordinates operational needs, including IT and facilities support. This is a unique opportunity to teach, mentor, and inspire the next generation of scientists and critical thinkers in a mission‑driven educational setting.

• Manage customer inquiries and scheduling of in‑person STEM experiences
• Support educators by ensuring they are well‑prepared for their visit and addressing questions about scheduling, curriculum, pre‑lessons, student experiences, and field‑trip logistics
• Oversee logistical aspects of visiting groups: finalize trip details, prepare materials for students and staff, address staffing needs, proactively communicate accommodations and IEPs, and coordinate lunch receipt and organization
• Lead simulated space missions and other hands‑on STEM experiences in the specialized facilities of the Challenger Learning Center and in asynchronous, virtual settings
• Maintain a directory of eligible and returning schools by tracking organizational contacts, updating Salesforce records, and ensuring all school information is accurate to enhance outreach and recruitment strategies
• Implement a data‑driven enrollment outreach plan by analyzing booking trends and proactively engaging teachers through multiple communication methods
• Coordinate the strategic deployment of marketing materials by identifying priority schools, submitting marketing requests, and collaborating with the Marketing team to develop outreach materials
• Track scholarship usage and experiential feedback from teachers and students, ensuring data is collected, analyzed, and communicated appropriately
• Maintain and update documentation related to operational processes
• Enhance customer satisfaction by engaging with educators, parents, and participants to gather feedback, address concerns, and implement improvements that elevate the program experience across both school‑year and summer programming

• Bachelor’s degree
• Experience leading elementary, middle school, and/or high school students in formal and/or informal learning experiences
• Ability to master and utilize specialized technology and STEM equipment
• Excellent written communication, public speaking, and collaboration skills
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, ability to work independently, and function professionally under pressure
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications
• Ability to interact effectively with individuals of diverse ages, cultures, and socio‑economic backgrounds
• Availability to work occasional evenings and weekends

• Master’s degree in Education or STEM‑related field
• Valid Illinois professional educator license
• Familiarity with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and their application to both formal and informal learning experiences
• Experience with Salesforce applications

Applications received by November 16, 2025, will receive priority consideration, with review of applications continuing as needed.

THIS POSITION IS BASED IN CENTRAL ILLINOIS AND ABILITY TO BE PRESENT ON‑CAMPUS/IN‑PERSON IS REQUIRED.

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.

Heartland Community College is an equal opportunity institution. HCC values equity, diversity and inclusion. We create a collegial and welcoming culture by taking collective responsibility in the creation, protection, and enhancement of an equitable, diverse, and inclusive campus community.