Teaching and Training Specialist,Challenger Learning Center Job Normal area,Illinois USA,Education / Teaching

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 Training 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.

Responsibilities

Oversee the hiring and onboarding of part‑time staff under the guidance of the Associate Director
Develop, deliver, and document asynchronous and in‑person training for part‑time CLC staff on software, hardware, and instructional resources, with the oversight of the Associate Director
Create training plans, establish benchmarks, and maintain written training manuals and records to ensure part‑time staff are equipped to deliver high‑quality STEM experiences
Assess part‑time staff performance, providing feedback, coaching, and support
Manage IT and Facilities ticket submissions, ensuring timely resolution of technical and facilities‑related issues
Lead simulated space missions and other hands‑on STEM experiences in the specialized facilities of the Challenger Learning Center, and in synchronous, virtual settings
Support positive relationships within STEM education, and with area businesses and organizations as directed by the supervisor

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree

Experience leading elementary, middle school, and/or high school students in formal and/or informal learning experiences

Ability to master, utilize, and teach team members to use specialized technology and equipment

Supervisory experience

Excellent written communication, public speaking, and collaboration skills

Ability to work efficiently both independently and in a fast‑paced collaborative environment

Ability to work inclusively with groups of diverse ages, cultures, socio‑economic backgrounds, and learning styles

Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications

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 how they relate to the formal and informal educational experiences

Requirements

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.

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Teaching and Training Specialist, Challenger Learning Center