Public Programs Facilitator -Tech Lead

Classification: Full-time, Non-Exempt

Department: Education

Reports to: Public Programs Manager

SUMMARY:

The Public Programs Facilitator Tech Lead will work under the supervision of the Public Programs Manager to deliver educational and engaging technology-enhanced science presentations across the museum and within the community. Additionally, they will lead the training and facilitation of science shows. These presentations may include live shows, demonstrations, and interactive experiences on the museum floor, within exhibitions, or at local schools and community events. Content may span various scientific fields, including health and wellness, astronomy, physics, and biology, mainly focusing on emerging technologies like 3D printing, virtual reality (VR), AI, and robotics. The Public Programs Facilitator - Tech Lead regularly performs for public audiences with a strong emphasis on integrating cutting-edge technology into all presentations.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Tech Programs

• Lead the design and facilitation of tech-based activities within the museum (e.g., VR experiences, 3D printing demos) for 4-8 hours per day.

• Work collaboratively with science education team to design and lead quarterly Tech Lab programming.

• Aid with the management and troubleshooting of all equipment necessary for supporting presentations, including technology like VR headsets, 3D printers, and interactive displays. Report technical problems to AV and Exhibits staff.

• Assist in tracking facilitators' training and updating training documentation, with a focus on tech tools and platforms.

Science Shows

• Collaborate on the design of new science shows and lead the training of PPFs who will facilitate science shows. This includes collaborative discussions, research of emerging presentation trends, and leading show rehearsals.

• Act as show lead during specified science shows.

Public Programs General

• Deepen guest participation by delivering dynamic, live science shows and demonstrations related to museum exhibitions, including interactive experiments, demos, theater-style shows, participatory games, quiz shows, etc.

• Support daily operations by assisting guests with wayfinding directions, safety instructions, and troubleshooting tech-related inquiries within the science education department.

• Adhere to daily show schedules and other rotational tasks as assigned.

• Report feedback for live science shows and tech presentations from guests and other staff periodically to ensure show quality and improve audience satisfaction.

• Maintain excellent customer service by maintaining a positive and friendly attitude and through guest interactions by answering questions related to exhibit content, show times, tech experiences, and other general information.

• Work a flexible and varying schedule that will include weekends, holidays, and non-traditional hours (this may include 2-3 evenings per month for special events and programming).

• Adhere to the established policies and procedures of the Museum.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree (B.A. or B.S.).

• Knowledge about and interest in emerging technologies.

• Knowledge about and interest in science show design, development and facilitation.

• Background and/or strong interest in several scientific areas: health, astronomy, physics, biology, etc.

• Theatrical experience and/or demonstrated ability to deliver exciting and engaging presentations a plus.

• Experience working with children, youth, and/or families in informal learning environments is a plus.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Must demonstrate strong performance skills and have a demonstrated commitment to delivering scripted material.

• Excellent interpersonal skills.

• Knowledge of the museum's mission statement, goals, and policies as per the employee manual.

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with creativity, curiosity, integrity, and determination.

• Ability to work under pressure, multitask, meet deadlines, and work collaboratively with staff.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to effectively share information across and between multiple disciplines and reach audiences with varied technical and organizational knowledge.

• Bilingual preferred (Spanish and/or Haitian Creole preferred).

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand for long periods of time as well as talk and hear. The employee is frequently required to walk and use the stairs; use hands and fingers to feel, handle, or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 30 pounds on select occasions. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those as employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Work time will be primarily spent on the floor delivering programs and require being exposed to the elements such as sun, heat, wind, etc. frequently. Weekend and evening work in alignment with programs is required. The Public Programs Facilitator Tech Lead must be available at least one weekend day and two weekdays every week, along with assigned workdays.

CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Level 2 background clearance as defined by Florida statute.

• Drug screening as part of the Drug Free Workplace Program.