Education Program Specialist (Astronomy) IS-1720-11

Smithsonian Institution•Washington, DC

18d•Onsite

About The Position

The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum (NASM) is one of over 20 units that comprise the Smithsonian Institution - including museums, libraries, research centers, publications, web presence and the national zoo - and is dedicated to the increase and diffusion of knowledge to enlighten, inspire, and engage individuals of all ages. NASM collects, preserves, studies, and exhibits artifacts, archival materials, and works of art related to the history, culture, and science of aviation and spaceflight and the study of the universe. Its research and outreach activities serve all audiences, within and beyond its walls. Learning at the National Air and Space Museum sparks curiosity and empowers learners to imagine the possibilities of our future. The Museum commemorates the past and is committed to educating and inspiring audiences to foster an appreciation for the importance of flight to humanity. NASM is administered as one Museum in the virtual space as well as at multiple physical locations: the National Mall building; the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia; and the Garber Facility in Suitland, Maryland. NASM provides access to the nation’s aviation and space flight history to an average of between 7-9 million onsite visitors from around the world annually, making it one of the most visited museums in the world. In addition, NASM draws tens of millions of learners to its virtual programming. Information about the role: This position is in the Education Department under the Education and Visitor Experience Directorate of the National Air and Space Museum (NASM), at the Smithsonian Institution. The position is responsible for developing the strategy and programming for astronomy subject matter and learning opportunities in the education department’s work to educate and engage audiences of all ages.

Requirements

To qualify for this position, applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level; leading, planning and managing an educational program.
Bachelor’s degree (B.A.) from an accredited four-year college or university and/or 3-5 years of related experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Knowledge, of concepts, techniques, and methodologies used to educate and enhance the understanding of routine to complex scientific, technological, or engineering topics related to the field of astronomy.
Knowledge of educational plan design and implementation to ensure that academic resources are developed to enhance learning outcomes of exhibits, installations, and events related to the field of astronomy.
Knowledgeable in use of astronomy specific equipment such as telescopes, planetariums, observatories, and astronomy software. Able to train personnel and volunteers in operations of the equipment and educate the public about the equipment’s use, purpose, and capabilities.
Knowledge of the grant proposal process sufficient to Works collaboratively with Manager of Youth and Teacher Programs and Advancement Office to develop donor proposals and reports.
In depth knowledge of astronomy and technologies used to study planets, stellar constellations, and the cosmos.
Knowledge of both formative and summative evaluation.
Ability to work in a team-based environment with institutional leadership, specialists, and volunteers to support educational initiatives and operations related to astronomy.

Responsibilities

Develops and maintains 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, independently defining and managing a science education plan centered on comprehensive topics portrayed in exhibition halls within the institution.
Maintains awareness of funding and participates in developing grant proposals to obtain funding for new and ongoing programs. Leads on developing grant reports.
Conducts ongoing evaluations to ensure programs as well as exhibitions are meeting audiences' needs for astronomy engagement and Museum goals.
Establishes and maintains strategic partnerships with organizations and institutions focused on astronomy and related topics.
Attracts and maintains a strong recruitment and training program that grooms subject-knowledgeable volunteers.