Education Specialist II, Bilingual (Elementary Educator Programs)

Monterey Bay Aquarium•Monterey, CA

10d•$70,304 - $76,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Under general supervision and with a focus on culturally relevant education, this role delivers education programs at the Aquarium and offsite for PreK - 12th grade educators and field trip groups, with a focus on Elementary educators. The position assists in the design of these high-quality, mission-driven programs, coordinates all aspects of multiple Education projects, and supervises and coaches volunteers, program assistants, and interns. This is a bilingual position, meaning core activities and/or time allocation may change slightly based on departmental workplan and bilingual offerings as it supports the Aquarium’s strategic plan and will be required to perform some core activities in both English and Spanish as assigned. Candidates will be required to complete a language proficiency test assessment for Spanish if moved into the interview process.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree with an emphasis in natural science, formal or informal education, curriculum, youth or educator development; or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
Teaching credential or proof of formal teacher training
Strong understanding of marine science content and integrated STEAM educational practices
Knowledge of Next Generation Science Standards, Common Core State Standards, teaching methods, and youth development strategies
Two or more years of experience facilitating educational activities with PK - 12 students
Commitment to culturally responsive education
Demonstrated success building and maintaining positive learning environments, including strong team building skills and classroom management
Able to write clearly, concisely, and fluently in English
Strong speaking skills
Strong organizational skills
Strong interpersonal skills
Strong time management skills with the ability to contribute to multiple simultaneous projects
Flexible with changes in work priorities
Familiarity with Monterey Bay natural history, as well as marine and basic science
Experience and comfort in the use of technology as an educational tool with students, including but not limited to iPad apps, Google Suite, and web-based educational tools
Fluent bilingual (English/Spanish) verbal skills required. Specifically, able to do the following in both Spanish and English: teach and present existing lesson plans and evaluations, answer participant questions, recruit for programs, communicate with guardians and educators about program logistics, converse with guardians and participants about medical needs and educational accommodations, and converse with other staff educators about program adjustments.
Fluent bilingual (English/Spanish) written proficiency required. Specifically, able to do the following in both Spanish and English: read and follow lesson plans and slides, modify slides, and write and respond to emails.
Culturally coherent in Spanish-speaking cultures required. Specifically, able to understand cultural implications tied to language in the above uses
Ability to work within, and maintain, Monterey Bay Aquarium's Core Values

Nice To Haves

Extensive experience integrating STEAM, including experience training other educators in technology integration and maker tools
Fluent Spanish speaking and writing skills

Responsibilities

Lead existing short-term and long-term educational sessions for PK-12 students and educators.
Develop a full understanding of and expertise in the topic.
Gather necessary learning tools, props, documents, and/or presentation slides.
Recommend and implement modifications to existing learning tools, props, documents, and/or presentation slides based on the needs of the specific audience and the latest research.
Facilitate in-person and online activities, including leading presentations, engaging students of various ages and learning levels, answering students' questions, as well as assessing and adjusting as-needed during the sessions based on the developmental and learning needs of the specific audience.
Build and maintain a positive, culturally responsive program environment that encourages strong relationships among and between program participants, volunteers, and staff.
Collaborate with colleagues to create, test, and iterate short- and long-term programs.
Conduct front-end audience evaluation and research to understand the needs of the specific audience.
Identify existing and needed curriculum for the program to meet stated learning goals.
Create program agendas with estimated timing and materials.
Include culturally responsive education strategies in program development.
Identify, schedule, and coordinate the acquisition of project supplies and resources, including food, outdoor equipment, volunteers, and educational materials, under the direction of program leads.
Gather, enter, and maintain program participants' demographic and attendance data into division databases.
Lead existing educational activities for PK - 12 students and/or educators at program recruitment events.
Support leads in the program application review and acceptance process, with a focus on equity.
Stay informed on the latest science, research, opinions, strategies, and academic standards with respect to formal and informal STEM education and programming.
Supervise program assistants, interns, and/or volunteers as they plan and deliver parts of long-term Education programs.
Become familiar with program budget and accounting processes, under the direction of program leads.
Implement existing evaluation tools, ensuring protocols are maintained, such as focus groups and/or interviews.
Represent the department, division, and the Aquarium to the public, visiting dignitaries, and the professional education community, at various meetings, events, and professional conferences.
Begin to develop relationships with program participants, community members, and other educators.