At Great Lakes Science Center, we make science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) come alive to feed the inner sense of curiosity for guests of all ages. We believe in the value of using real scientific challenges through opportunities to invent, design, tinker and create to encourage curiosity and experimentation. The Science Center remains committed to developing informal science education programs that inspire young minds, improve STEM literacy and cultivate the creative, critical thinkers who will shape the future of Northeast Ohio.

The Senior Curriculum Developer leads a team of writers and creatives to conceptualize, develop, and present dynamic and diverse science, technology, engineering, and math educational experiences for family and youth audiences. This position is a critical part of a team dedicated to enriching guests’ interests through high-quality, exciting, and fun educational programs. In addition to researching new content and mechanisms for delivery, the Senior Curriculum Developer will be innovative and integrate cutting-edge technology into programs when appropriate. Further, the role is responsible for evaluating, refining, and training existing programs and curriculum.  Finally, the ideal candidate will be a demonstrated risk-taker and have the charisma and ambition to excel. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Curriculum Development

• Accountable for the creation of all curriculum-based programs offered by GLSC
• Stay on top of education trends, issues, and market expectations to increase the effectiveness of our programs
• Inspire and encourage other STEM Learning department members to create valuable and scalable programs
• Manage schedules and timelines for curriculum development and training
• Prepare and distribute lesson plans in a timely manner
• Provide reference materials and pedagogical instruction as needed
• Teach classes and curriculum as needed to gain the perspective of those implementing the curriculum in the future

Communication and Collaboration

• Work closely with peers to gather new ideas and best practices for curriculum development
• Frequently report on progress to other departments so they may be informed for press and promotion opportunities
• Collaborate and share content with Exhibits team to integrate curriculum with other experiences within the Science Center
• Cooperate and communicate positively and constructively with others to effectively manage shared space and resources.
• Identify and communicate with STEM Professionals and community partners

Feedback and Evaluation

• Observe established programs for standards, policies, procedures, and instruction techniques
• Provide prompt and constructive feedback to teachers and informal educators
• Observe and evaluate curriculum and instruction
• Develop and collaborate with STEM Learning Product Manager on program evaluation

Informal Learning and STEM Content Knowledge and Skills

• Seek new information and creative new approaches to frequently develop, learn, and present a variety of content from technology, engineering design processes, physical science, biomedical, nanotechnology, maker, and more. Note that Great Lakes Science Center focuses on the “TEM of STEM” as its unique role. We do not seek to be redundant with the region’s already rich resources in natural and environmental sciences
• Research and implement a wide range of informal STEM learning practices
• Creatively use IoT programming software and digital fabrication equipment such as 3D printers, laser cutters, and vinyl cutters
• Safely work with chemicals and gases including but not limited to liquid nitrogen, dry ice, nitric acid, methane, corrosive and flammable materials

Program Delivery

• Deliver programs such as informal guest engagement, science demonstrations, family and member workshops, and exhibit-related programming. This includes one on one educational experiences, large-scale demonstrations for hundreds of audience members, and live television and streaming.
• Reflect on and actively work to improve learning for all guests, from early childhood to adult.
• Enthusiastically represent the Science Center at off-site programs, including but not limited to outreach programs, science fairs, earned media, and community events. Communicate knowledgeably about all Science Center programs, policies, and procedures. Serve as a positive and enthusiastic spokesperson for Science Center programs, exhibits, and mission.

Technical Skills

• Uses various tools including power and hand tools, soldering irons, and other tools as necessary for the job
• Coding and technology for educational programs using various software and hardware

 Supervisory Responsibilities:

• The Senior Curriculum Developer is responsible for inspiring and motivating a team of Curriculum Developers.  Collaboration and frequent check-ins are necessary to track progress and evaluate effectiveness.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Education and Work Experience Qualifications:

• Advanced degree in curriculum design is preferred
• Experience teaching and/or working with children, with demonstrated creative methods in an informal or formal learning environment
• Knowledgeable of tiered curriculum, project based learning, and other student centered pedagogy.
• Knowledge/interest in physical sciences, space/aeronautics, Environmental/Great Lakes, Robotics, Technology, Design and Engineering, and/or Chemistry
• Experience with/willingness to learn various fabrication technologies (3-D printer, laser cutter, etc.)

Additional Eligibility Qualifications (K/S/A):

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Experience working in informal education with students with diverse abilities and interests
• Works effectively with both youth and parents
• Superior ability to break down complex ideas and materials into understandable units
• Creativity and imagination regarding youth development and learning
• Willingness to learn or ability to design and build props and create immersive learning environments
• Strong ability to think fast/resolve problems efficiently and effectively
• Excellent instructional/public speaking skills
• Ability to operate fabrication equipment (i.e., 3D printer, laser cutter, etc.) and various scientific tools/machines
• Proficiency with MS Office Suite programs (Word/Excel/PowerPoint/Teams)
• Proficiency with digital publishing software
• Ability to learn new technologies and skills to stay relevant

Salary: $36,000 - $42,000 annualized

Expected Hours of Work: Monday through Friday for at least 40 hours; Occasional weekends and evenings.

Great Lakes Science Center is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All of your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.