Senior Scientist, Creative Technology and Teaching - Arizona Science Center

About Arizona Science Center

Located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona Science Center features more than 300 hands-on exhibits, a state-of-the-art planetarium, a five-story giant-screen theater, live demonstrations, traveling exhibitions, and exciting science programs. The Center offers programs for all ages, including Science on Wheels, CAMP INNOVATION, Teen programs, Professional Development, and Adults’ Night Out: Science With A Twist. Whether onsite or at your location–get ready to embark on a hands-on STEM learning journey you’ll never forget.

Arizona Science Center is an EEO/ADA Reasonable Accommodation Employer.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Senior Scientist of Creative Technology and Teaching at Arizona Science Center plays a pivotal role in overseeing and expanding the impact of CREATE's programs. Reporting to and collaborating with the Senior Manager, STEAM Diversity and Inclusion, the managerial role will lead a team responsible for the effective execution of various programs, including Skill Studios, Mini-Maker Experiences, Creator Courses, Focused Field Trips, Adult Team Building, After-hours Maker Labs. The Senior Scientist of Creative Technology and Teaching will be instrumental in developing new innovative programming around workforce development and technical education while also working to establish maker spaces throughout Arizona, particularly in rural and indigenous libraries and communities. The role also involves contributing to onsite fabrication projects and ensuring guest satisfaction within the makerspace. Most importantly, this role must ensure that all makerspace education initiatives and programs are safe, efficient, and captivating. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Guest Engagement

• Engage with guests inside the center, offering high-quality learning experiences and ensuring guest satisfaction
• Develop and implement strategies, in collaboration with the Senior Manager, STEAM Equity and Inclusion, to create inclusive programming

Program and Content Management

• Plan, develop and execute diverse technical education programs to advance workforce development initiatives 

Leadership and Oversight

• Provide mentorship and guidance to the team, fostering an environment encouraging creativity and innovation in expanding programming offerings
• Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure the successful execution of programming 
• Oversee and ensure the alignment of programs with the overall strategic goals of the Arizona Science Center.
• Monitor budgetary allocations, oversee purchases, and manage inventory to ensure adequate financial stewardship
• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment, promoting innovation and maintaining a safe space for teamwork

Partnership Development

• Identify and establish partnerships within the technology community to enhance programming and extend maker space experiences throughout Arizona.
• Establish meaningful partnerships with community liaisons to benefit the organization and the local community

Technical Skills and Safety

• Ensure all users firmly grasp the safety and proper use of equipment, including developing, maintaining, and enforcing standard operating procedures in compliance with OSHA policies
• Utilize software such as CorelDRAW 
• Operate 3D printers, large format laser cutter engravers, and other relevant tools.
• Participate in onsite fabrication projects related to public engagement learning programs and special events at the science center.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below represent the knowledge, skill, and ability required.

• Skill in planning and coordinating activities.
• Skill in effective verbal and written communication and reporting.
• Skill in problem-solving and decision-making.
• Skill in adapting program content and complexity to the ages and interests of students and program participants.
• Ability to work individually and in a team.
• Ability to work with limited supervision.
• Ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with a variety of stakeholders
• Ability to present effectively with diverse audiences. Ability to manage and engage small and large groups in learning activities. Ability to speak clearly and project voice across a classroom.
• Ability to engage the audience in higher-level thinking through inquiry-based questioning and discussion.
• Ability to multitask and adjust quickly to changing priorities or organizational needs.
• Ability to work evenings and weekends.
• Fundamental woodshop design knowledge and the know-how to operate a CNC machine, table saw, and other woodworking materials.
• Knowledge of metal fabrication and welding
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM is essential
• Proficiency in CorelDRAW, 3D printing, and operating laser cutter engravers.
• Knowledge of electrical engineering and the ability to design functional electrical items.

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE 

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., engineering, technology, education) or equivalent experience.
• Experience in managing creative technology programs and maker spaces.

LANGUAGE SKILLS 

Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers, clients, customers, and the general public.

Ability to read, write, and converse in Spanish, Navajo, or Diné preferred.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS  

An employee must meet the physical demands described here to perform the essential functions of this job successfully.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to walk, sit, use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand. The employee must frequently lift or move up to 30 pounds. Occasionally, employees must lift up 65 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, and depth perception.

This job also requires a computer, which will be placed somewhere in the employee's workspace. The employee must have the necessary keyboard and computer mouse skills and the ability to read a color monitor.

BENEFITS include, but are not limited to:

• 21 paid days off annually including holidays, birthdays, and vacation days
• 15 days of accrued sick time
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
• Life and Long Term Disability insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Family membership to Arizona Science Center and 600+ Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC)
• Admission Exchange Program - Year-round complimentary admission for the employee and one guest to visit the Phoenix Zoo, Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix Art Museum, Heard Museum, Arizona Museum of Natural History, etc.