Museum Education Coordinator – University of Kansas Natural History Museum

Lawrence, Kansas

Salary Range: $51,000 to $57,000

The University of Kansas Natural History Museum’s informal science education programs advance science education by educating, engaging and inspiring visitors about natural history, evolutionary biology, and other science topics. The museum seeks an experienced museum educator for a small department to create and implement a range of engaging science education programs and resources. The museum education coordinator’s responsibilities include teaching, program research and development, and program implementation and administration.

Duties:

Teach education programs for schools, youth, and other groups (35%)

1.       Communicate scientific principles in an accurate and engaging way.

2.       Lead science learning experiences for K-12 and other groups (youth, families, KU classes).

3.       Modify approach as appropriate to individuals and groups (e.g., age, developmental levels, etc.).

Develop and implement education programs and materials (35%)

1.       Create educational programming and resources including for grant projects.

2.       Formulate creative and engaging activities and materials appropriate to target audiences.

3.       Research, review and synthesize science content and liaise with relevant scientists if needed.

4.       Consult relevant learning research to inform program development.

5.       Evaluate (protype and trial-test) activities and strategies for effectiveness.

Supervision, Management and Administration (20%)

1.       Recruit, supervise and train student staff (e.g., coordinate searches, produce schedule of work, monitor performance and provide feedback, approve hours).

2.       Education program organization and administration including school programs (e.g., planning, scheduling, setup, purchasing, processing payments).

3.       Assist associate director of informal science education in operation of office, budget tracking, promotion and evaluation of programs, reports, and managing physical facility.

Other related duties (10%)

1.       Collaborate with colleagues, particularly outreach, on programming activities and initiatives, including participation in drop-in events and programs.

2.       Provide support for exhibits (e.g., conduct evaluation).

3.       Other related duties as assigned.

Required qualifications:

The following requirements should be evidenced during the interview or by information provided in the 1) application materials, 2) work history, 3) relevant education, 4) record of accomplishments, and 5) references.

1. Master’s degree in science or a related field such as biological sciences, earth sciences, physical sciences, science education OR Bachelor’s degree in relevant field and 3 years related experience.
2. Minimum of 1 year professional teaching experience in a science education setting.
3. Experience in education program development.
4. Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of informal science education (e.g., familiar with principles, literature, and organizations; aware of trends and topics in the discipline).
5. Demonstrated excellent oral and written communications skills.
6. Work history that required excellent organizational and administrative, and problem-solving skills, and ability to work independently.
7. Experience using information technology for both research and teaching purposes (e.g., demonstrated experience with online research tools; familiar with Microsoft Office suite).
8. Experience supervising and training staff (student or other staff).

Preferred qualifications:

1. Master’s degree or higher in science or a related field such as biological sciences, earth science, physical sciences, science education.
2. 3+ years professional teaching experience in a science education setting.
3. Professional experience at a natural history museum, science museum, or similar setting.
4. Background in more than one area of science (e.g., knowledge, courses, experience).
5. Experience working with diverse groups of visitors in an educational setting.

Additional Candidate Instructions:

In addition to the online application, please submit the following documents:

1. Cover letter summarizing your interest in this position and how you meet the qualifications.
2. CV/resume with details of your experience.
3. Contact information for three professional references.

Only complete applications will be considered.

For more information and to apply visit https://employment.ku.edu/jobs/staff/education-program-coordinator/30450br. Review begins June 9, 2025.