Space Education Specialist-Offsite Programs

Job Description

Job Description

DEPARTMENT: Space Foundation Discovery Center

REPORTS TO: Education Manager of Offsite School Programs

POSITION SUMMARY/OJBECTIVE:

The Space Education Specialist delivers high-impact, hands-on space and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) learning experiences for students, educators, and community audiences. The role primarily focuses on developing and delivering offsite curriculum and programming, including Space in the Community (SiTC), Space Education Programs (SEPs), and teacher professional development. The Specialist may also support onsite Discovery Center programs and activities based on organizational and program needs. Through standards-aligned curriculum, energetic instruction, and effective program coordination, the Specialist helps extend Space Foundation’s mission both within the Discovery Center and throughout the community.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Deliver engaging, hands-on educational experiences through field trips, labs, camps, and public programs that align with the Discovery Center’s space and STEM education mission.
• Support both on-site and off-site programming, including teacher professional development, outreach events, and community STEM initiatives.
• Collaborate with the education team to plan, evaluate, and continuously improve program content and delivery.
• Maintain and organize lab spaces, materials, and equipment to ensure safe, high-quality learning environments.
• Provide exceptional guest engagement by fostering curiosity, enthusiasm, and understanding of space exploration and STEM concepts.
• Develop, implement, and refine curriculum and lesson plans that integrate space science concepts and interactive learning for diverse audiences.
• Assist with scheduling, setup, teardown, and other program logistics to ensure seamless delivery.
• Collect and report program data to evaluate impact and support grants and funding requirements.
• May perform other duties as required or assigned.  

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

BUDGETARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• This position does not have budgetary or financial oversight responsibilities.

COMPETENCIES:

• Ability to facilitate engaging, inquiry-based learning experiences for diverse audiences and connect complex space-related concepts to real-world applications. 
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment. 
• Collaborative, innovative, and solution-focused approach to educational programming. 
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to engage a variety of audiences and build effective relationships. 
• Comfortable facilitating and recording virtual programs using video conferencing technology.
• Understanding of the Next Generation Science Standards and 21st Century Essential Skills.
• Proficiency in Learning Management Systems (LMS), including content management program delivery, learner enrollment, and ongoing course administration. 

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A four-year degree in education, science or a related field; STEM preferred. Must be able to explain how you can implement educational programing with your related degree or have a minimum of 1 year of experience implementing educational programming. 
• 1-3 years of classroom experience teaching grades 6-12 in Science, Math, or Technology preferred. 
• Active teaching certification preferred.
• Experience working with 3-D printing and other technology is preferred. 
• Familiarity with project-based learning and inquiry-based education methods.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and various educational technologies, with a focus on enhancing learning experiences.
• Experience designing and delivering learning experiences for adult learners is preferred.
• Experience developing and building online courses within an LMS, preferably Canvas, to include instructional content organization and course design preferred. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: 

This position involves movement, including walking, lifting, or carrying items up to 50 pounds, may be required. Reasonable accommodation will be made to support individuals with disabilities in performing essential job functions.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

This role is primarily based in a public exhibit environment, with access to standard equipment and furnishings. The work environment is moderate to loud in noise level. Reasonable accommodation will be made for individuals with disabilities.

The employee will be required to participate in offsite meetings or events. This position will require travel up to one week at a time up to 8 times a year.  

JOB STATUS: 

• FLSA Classification: This position is exempt according to guidelines of the Fair Labor Standards Act and, as such, an individual in this position is not eligible to receive overtime pay.  
• Full- or Part-Time: This position is full-time in nature. An individual in this position will work a schedule consisting of 40 hours per week.
• Work Location: This position is based at Space Foundation headquarters in Colorado Springs, CO. Under our current hybrid work policy, this role may be eligible for up to one work-from-home day per week, with the remaining days worked on-site. Work-from-home days for this position will be subject to approval and may not always be available depending on current work projects.
• Schedule: Tuesday through Saturday, holidays excepted, and usual business hours are from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. in the time zone in which the position is located. This position's nature and duties are such that evening events may be required to fulfill programmatic obligations.

BENEFITS:

Space Foundation offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Employer-paid basic life and AD&D coverage
• Short- and long-term disability insurance
• 401(k) plan with employer contribution
• Paid holidays and generous paid time off
• Access to employee assistance program (EAP)

EEO STATEMENT:

Space Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.