Summer Camp Educator

Organization: National Aviation Hall of Fame (NAHF)
Location: Joe Clark Innovation Lab / National Museum of the United States Air Force (Dayton, OH)
Position Type: Seasonal (Summer 2026)
Reports To: Education & Innovation Lab Leadership

Position Summary

The National Aviation Hall of Fame Summer Camp Educator delivers dynamic, hands‑on STEM learning experiences for children ages 6–13 as part of NAHF’s Summer Camp series. Educators lead immersive, inquiry‑based programs that explore aviation, aerospace, and space exploration through engineering challenges, LEGO® builds, experiments, simulations, field trips, and Virtual Reality experiences.

By connecting the stories of aviation pioneers with modern technology and future possibilities, Summer Camp Educators inspire curiosity, creativity, teamwork, and critical thinking—empowering campers to think like engineers, pilots, astronauts, and innovators. We have the curriculum developed but would welcome your input and ideas.

Camp Schedule

• Dates:
  • Week of June 8
  • Week of June 15
  • Week of June 22
  • Week of July 13
  • Week of July 20
• Days: Monday–Friday
• Time: 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
• Ages Served: 6–13

Educational Focus

The NAHF Summer Camp series integrates:

• Aviation and space history
• Engineering design and problem‑solving
• Aerodynamics, propulsion, and flight principles
• Hands‑on STEM exploration
• LEGO® engineering challenges
• Interactive simulations and experiments
• Field trips and Virtual Reality experiences

Each themed week encourages campers to design, build, test, and innovate while gaining an appreciation for the pioneers who shaped aviation and space exploration.

Camp Themes

Educators may support one or more of the following themed weeks:

• Airshow Week of June 8 – LEGO‑based exploration of aerobatics, historic aircraft, and modern jets, culminating in a family LEGO airshow showcase
• Adventures in Space Week of June 15 – Human spaceflight history, spacecraft design, and future exploration
• Innovations in Flight Week of June 22 – Aviation past, present, and future, from the Wright brothers to drones and supersonic jets
• Mission to Space Week of July 13 – Astronaut training, orbital mechanics, navigation, and mission planning with VR and field trips
• Flying with Legends Week of July 13-17 – Aviation history through the lives and achievements of iconic pilots and innovators

Key Responsibilities

• Instruction & Facilitation
  • Lead and facilitate daily camp activities aligned with NAHF camp curriculum and weekly themes.
  • Deliver engaging, age‑appropriate instruction for campers ages 6–13.
  • Guide campers through hands‑on STEM challenges, LEGO builds, experiments, simulations, and design projects.
  • Encourage inquiry, creativity, teamwork, and problem‑solving.
• Supervise campers at all times to ensure a safe, inclusive, and positive learning environment.
• Follow NAHF safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and child protection policies.
• Model positive behavior, professionalism, and enthusiasm.
• Preparation & Program Support
  • Assist with daily setup, cleanup, and organization of materials and learning spaces.
  • Support field trips, guest presenters, and special experiences such as Virtual Reality activities.
  • Maintain materials and communication supply needs to supervisors.
• Family & Guest Engagement
  • Serve as a welcoming and knowledgeable representative of NAHF.
  • Communicate clearly and professionally with parents, caregivers, volunteers, and museum staff.
• Work closely with fellow staff and leadership to ensure smooth daily operations.
• Participate in staff training, planning meetings, and program evaluations.
• Provide feedback to improve camp content and camper experience.

Qualifications

• Required
  • Experience working with children in an educational, camp, museum, or informal learning environment.
  • Strong communication and classroom/group management skills.
  • Interest in STEM, aviation, aerospace, or hands‑on learning.
  • Ability to work full camp days in an active, fast‑paced environment.
  • Ability to pass a background check.
• Preferred
  • Coursework or degree in Education, STEM, Aviation, Engineering, or a related field.
  • Previous experience teaching camps, classrooms, or youth workshops.
  • Familiarity with inquiry‑based or project‑based learning.
  • Experience with LEGO® education, engineering challenges, or STEM kits.
  • CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, and actively engage with campers throughout the day.
• Ability to lift and carry supplies and equipment (up to [insert weight] pounds).
• Ability to work in hands‑on, sometimes noisy or high‑energy learning environments.

Compensation

• Hourly rate: This position offers a competitive income level based on qualifications and experience.
• Seasonal employment during scheduled camp weeks

Why Work with NAHF?

Summer Camp Educators at the National Aviation Hall of Fame help inspire the next generation of aerospace leaders while working in a nationally significant aviation museum environment. This role offers meaningful teaching experience, professional growth, and the opportunity to bring aviation history and innovation to life for young learners.

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