Learning Specialist

TITLE: Learning Specialist
DEPARTMENT: Learning Programs
REPORTS TO: Managers of Learning Programs
STATUS: Full-time, Exempt
SALARY: $50,000
LOCATION: Hybrid - Chicago, IL.

The job for which you have applied is now a union job. All non-supervisory jobs in Learning & Community are included in the unit of employees represented by Shedd Workers United, AFSCME Council 31. The union was elected in November 2024, and, at this time, Shedd and the union do not yet have a ratified collective bargaining agreement in place.

Time Commitment:

• Approximately 40 hours per week. 
• The schedule for this position is Tuesday-Saturday. Schedules often change seasonally, depending on programmatic needs.
• This position must have the ability to work evenings, weekends, overnight hours, and holidays as required. 
• This position must be able to work at Shedd Aquarium and in off-site locations.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Learning Programs Department develops and delivers learning experiences outside of or in addition to a regular visit and provides opportunities for learners to dive deeper. We serve a variety of audiences across Learning Programs, including students, teachers, teens, youth outside of school, and families. This programming includes, but is not limited to, camps, school experiences, teacher professional development, out-of-school-time programming for youth and teens, and family engagements both at Shedd Aquarium, in off-site locations, as well as in online environments. 

The Learning Specialist uses creativity, promising instructional practices, and evaluation data to design, implement, and authentically evaluate programs that support various levels of Shedd’s learning framework. Learning Specialists utilize learner-centered teaching strategies to encourage learners to think critically about the natural world and their place in it, actively seek out relevant content knowledge, and evaluate learning using authentic and formal assessment techniques. The Learning Specialist demonstrates ownership and autonomy in each program cycle while contributing to a culture of collaboration. They actively participate in reflective activities as they relate to their instructional quality. This position is primarily responsible for developing and facilitating learning experiences at Shedd, in the field, in local communities, and in online environments. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Develop engaging programs aligned to programmatic goals and outcomes 
• Facilitate learner-centered programs 
• Stay current on relevant best practices (instructional strategies, content areas, etc.)
• Utilize resources such as live animals, local natural areas, technology, and other tools
• Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability
• Work with various audience groups on teams or independently 
• Maintain resources, materials, and programming spaces 
• Continually incorporate assessment data in program planning and facilitation. 
• Participate in project-related and skills-based trainings 
• Collaborate with internal and external partners 
• Actively participate in your own professional development.
• Use diverse, equitable, accessible, inclusive, and justice (DEAIJ) practices in lesson design 
• Demonstrate leadership in accordance with Shedd’s mission, vision, and values 
• Fulfill other duties as required 

QUALIFICATIONS: The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. 

Education:  Bachelor’s degree in education, life science, environmental science, museum studies or a related field, or equivalent experience.
 
Experience:

• 2+ years of experience teaching in either a formal or informal setting 
• 1+ year of experience designing learning experiences 
• Strong written and oral communication skills 
• Strong organizational and time management skills 
• Willingness to be trained to handle animals for education programs 
• Willingness to implement programs aboard research vessels, in water, and/or in wilderness settings for multiple weeks 
• A valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a valid driver's license 
• Read, write, speak, and comprehend English 
• Communicate professionally with various audiences 
• Understand basic mathematical relationships and formulas 
• Understand basic budgeting 
• Solve problems using available information and resources 
• Experience and comfort using a computer and basic writing, presentation, and spreadsheet applications 
• Learn new technology and new computer applications 
• Willing to be CPR and first aid certified (advanced wilderness/outdoor training required in some situations); Shedd will provide these trainings as needed 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with students, teens, youth, and/or families from Chicago communities or other urban areas 
• Experience with culturally relevant science education practices and instructional strategies 
• Experience facilitating and/or creating environmental education and conservation-based programming 
• Experience working with diverse audiences 
• Bilingualism (Spanish/English is a plus) 
• Experience facilitating outdoor program activities such as canoeing, hiking, snorkeling, camping, kayaking, and other water-based experiences, etc. 
• Comfort working in team-based environments. 

PHYSICAL EXPECTATIONS:
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.

• This is an active position. Staff will be required to move around the aquarium to various exhibits and workspaces each day. Stairs and elevators are available. 
• Able to facilitate program activities, including but not limited to: using a tablet or computer, using common laboratory equipment, recreation equipment, and field-related gear and equipment. 
• Applicants must be comfortable in deep water and must be able to pass a swim test within 6 months of being hired. The swim test must be administered by a certified lifeguard. This test will be scheduled by the applicant.
  • Swim Test Components: 
    • Swim 200 meters without difficulty (any stroke, no time limit) 
    • Tread water for ten minutes without difficulty (deep water, no touching sides or bottom of pool) 

WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The work environment may include the following sensory triggers: large crowds, unusual smells, unusual noises-which may be loud, low, or moderate, temperature changes, changes in lighting, staff may get wet or dirty, and outdoor elements. 

BENEFITS OF WORKING AT SHEDD:  We offer competitive compensation packages and opportunities for professional growth within our organization. 

• Medical Insurance, including FSA and HSA plan options
• Vision and Dental Insurance 
• Accrued Paid Time Off 
• Up to 12 Paid Holidays 
• Life Insurance 
• Parental Leave and Adoption Assistance
• 401(k)
• Discounted Parking and Public Transit Subsidies
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Wellness program, including Preventive Care Incentive 
• Employee Discounts
• Employee Tickets 

Reasonable Accommodations: 
Shedd Aquarium is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need reasonable accommodations for any part of the employment process, please email us at View email address on click.appcast.io. 

We strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ community, veterans and active duty military, parents, individuals with disabilities, and individuals from all cultural backgrounds to apply. Shedd Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team.