Instructor, Science First Program - Seasonal

Chicago Botanic Garden • Glencoe, IL

1d • Onsite

About The Position

This position is structured for two teachers working collaboratively to instruct 7th to 10th grade students from Chicago Public Schools in a STEM-themed summer program for two consecutive sessions: Science First (3 weeks | June – July): Rising 6th – 8th graders, Science First II (4 weeks | July – August): Rising 9th – 10th graders. The Science First instructors will deliver an immersive, hands-on STEM program at the Chicago Botanic Garden serving two cohorts of students. Over seven weeks, teachers will work with rising 7th to 8th graders (3 weeks) and rising 9th to 10th graders (4 weeks), guiding students through inquiry-based environmental science experiences and projects that culminate in the presentation of a research poster. The curriculum emphasizes field-based learning, authentic research practices, and increasing student ownership of their learning. This role operates within a collaborative co-teaching model in which two educators share instructional leadership. One instructor will lead lessons while the other provides targeted support, small-group facilitation, and individualized guidance, with roles rotating between cohorts. Instructors will collaborate closely on lesson planning, field trip integration, student support, and program assessment to ensure a cohesive, engaging, and equitable learning experience for all students.

Requirements

• Minimum of three years of science teaching experience in formal or informal educational settings with middle and/or high school-aged students.
• Bachelor’s degree required in environmental science, biology, science education, or a related STEM field.
• Demonstrated understanding of student development theory with focus on first-generation, low-income, and students of color.
• Proven ability to integrate STEM concepts into lesson plans and develop culturally responsive curriculum.
• Strong administrative skills, including data management, organization, and task completion.

Nice To Haves

• Fluency in Spanish desirable but not required.

Responsibilities

• Work collaboratively to plan and deliver inquiry-based STEM experiences rooted in environmental science and authentic research practices
• Lead lectures, demonstrations, and structured learning activities (rotating lead role between cohorts)
• Differentiate instruction to meet the developmental needs of middle school and high school learners
• Increase research intensity and student responsibility for the 9th to10th grade cohort, including deeper data analysis, scientific reasoning, and independent inquiry
• Guide students through the development of a culminating research poster, including: Formulating research questions, Designing investigations, Collecting and analyzing data, Creating visual representations of findings, Preparing and practicing formal presentations
• Supervise and actively participate in weekly Friday field trips
• Support classroom culture, behavior management, and a positive learning environment
• Collaborate daily with co-teacher and teaching assistant to refine instruction and adjust pacing
• Participate in program reflection, assessment, and continuous improvement processes

Benefits

• Wellness initiative benefit
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Retirement plan
• Holidays
• Holiday Thank you pay
• Garden membership - free to employees at Household Plus level
• Discounts to Garden Shop, Cafe, Garden-sponsored educational classes
• Employee events such as Orchid show, Night of 1,000 Jack-o'-Lanterns, Lightscape employee & friends preview night

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees