Mentor

Mentor

Villanova University, in collaboration with the North Penn School District, is launching an Afterschool Artificial Intelligence (AI) Club at local elementary schools as part of an NSF-supported outreach initiative. The program will bring together K–12 teachers, engineering students, and AI professionals to mentor elementary students (grades 1–6) as they explore how AI can be used to solve real-world challenges. The club will run January 2026 – June 2026, meeting two to three afternoons per week after school in Lansdale, PA. We are seeking part-time Technical Mentors with expertise in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Robotics, or Data-Driven Design to provide content mentorship and technical guidance for K–6 student teams participating in the Presidential AI Challenge. Mentors will collaborate with K–12 teachers and Villanova faculty to design engaging, age-appropriate learning activities, introduce students to AI applications, and guide teams through project development and iterative design. This position offers an opportunity to apply professional knowledge in a community-engaged setting, inspire young learners, and contribute to national efforts to expand K–12 AI literacy. This is a part-time, hourly position (approximately 5–10 hours per week, January 2026 – June 2026). Looking to hire up to 2 individuals. Villanova is a Catholic university sponsored by the Augustinian order. The University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and seeks candidates who understand, respect and can contribute to the University's mission and values.

Duties and Responsibilities: Collaborate with Villanova faculty and students, and K–12 teachers to plan and deliver AI learning modules. Co-facilitate after-school sessions (two to three afternoons per week). Provide technical mentorship to student teams as they design AI-enabled solutions. Support project documentation, ethical discussions, and preparation for competition submissions. Participate in weekly mentor planning meetings (virtual or in person). Attend community showcase and related outreach events. Perform other duties and assist with projects as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications: Formal Education Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical or Mechanical Engineering, Data Science, or a related field Work Experience Demonstrated experience with Artificial Intelligence and/or Machine Learning (academic, research, or industry). Work Skills (e.g., written and verbal communication skills) Strong communication skills and ability to explain technical concepts to non-experts. Specific Job Knowledge (e.g., knowledge of principles and procedures related to field and area) Proficiency in coding, robotics, and computational design tools (e.g., Python,MATLAB, Arduino, TensorFlow, SolidWorks, or similar). Other: Reliable transportation to Lansdale, PA, and availability for afterschool hours (typically 3:00–6:00 p.m).

Preferred Qualifications: Work Experience Prior experience mentoring or teaching youth in STEM settings. Specific Job Knowledge (e.g., knowledge of principles and procedures related to field and area) Knowledge of ethical and societal implications of AI. Familiarity with educational robotics platforms (e.g., LEGOMindstorms, Sphero, MakeBlock) or visual programming tools (e.g., Scratch, Blockly). Other Interest in community-based STEM education and outreach.

Physical Requirements and/or Unusual Work Hours: Availability for afterschool hours (typically 3:00–6:00 p.m).

Special Message to Applicants: Please submit your application at: Application packages must include: Cover Letter Curriculum Vitae / Resume Names and contacts of two references

EEO Statement - Villanova is a Catholic university sponsored by the Augustinian order. Diversity and inclusion have been and will continue to be an integral component of Villanova University's mission. The University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and seeks candidates who understand, respect and can contribute to the University's mission and values.