Education Program Specialist (Astronomy), IS-1720-09

Smithsonian Institution•Washington, DC

8d•$70,623 - $80,041•Onsite

About The Position

The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum (NASM) is seeking an Education Program Specialist (Astronomy) to support astronomy subject matter and learning opportunities within the education department. This role focuses on educating and engaging audiences of all ages, with an emphasis on creating new audiences. The position is part of the Education Department under the Education and Visitor Experience Directorate at NASM, a unit of the Smithsonian Institution dedicated to the increase and diffusion of knowledge in aviation, spaceflight, and the study of the universe.

Requirements

At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-9 level, demonstrating the ability to lead, plan, coordinate, and manage educational programs.
Experience developing and implementing learning initiatives.
Experience engaging diverse audiences.
Experience supporting program goals through effective educational planning and delivery.
Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university and/or three to five years of related professional experience.
Knowledge of concepts, techniques, and methodologies used to educate and enhance the understanding of routine to intermediate topics regarding astronomy.
Knowledge of the grant review and evaluation process to ensure they accurately reflect the learning outcomes of programs, exhibits, and installations.
Skill working in a team-based environment, helping to coordinate the work efforts of multiple individuals and shape learning outcomes.
Knowledge of astronomy as well as educational plan design and implementation to ensure that interactive programming, educational materials, and other resources diffuse the understanding of astronomy for children, adults, and other groups visiting the NASM.
Skill in communicating, briefing, or presenting topics associated with astronomy.
Skill in developing curriculum and learning materials.
Skill in drafting content used in grant proposals.
Familiarity with the use of astronomy specific equipment such as telescopes, planetariums, observatories, and astronomy software.
Familiar with the grant review and evaluation process to ensure they accurately reflect the learning outcomes of programs, exhibits, and installations.

Nice To Haves

Applicants with strong program management, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

Supports the development and implementation of astronomy-specific learning resources for all audiences including families, children, young adults, and educators, with emphasis on creating new audiences.
Facilitates astronomy learning using observatory, planetarium, and telescopes.
Works with curatorial staff to ensure accuracy of astronomy teaching and devises strategies to infuse astronomy education into all the Museum’s programming, contributing to a science education plan centered on comprehensive topics portrayed in exhibition halls within the institution.
Reads and interprets academic reports; policies, and other documents that provide awareness of techniques, pressing issues, or other matters in the field of astronomy to integrate into subject matter developed by the institution.
Supports and engages teams of specialists and volunteers responsible for the development of activities and materials, and operations of the observatory.
Supports developing grant reports.
Conducts ongoing evaluations to ensure programs and exhibitions meet audiences' needs for astronomy engagement and Museum goals.