Learning Facilitator

Shedd Aquarium•Chicago, IL

21h•$20•Onsite

About The Position

The Learning Programs Department develops and delivers learning experiences outside of or in addition to a regular visit and provides opportunities for learners to dive deeper. We serve a variety of audiences across Learning Programs, including students, teachers, teens, youth outside of school, and families. This programming includes, but is not limited to, camps, school experiences, teacher professional development, out-of-school-time programming for youth and teens, and family engagements both at Shedd Aquarium, in off-site locations, as well as in online environments. The Learning Facilitator’s primary role is to deliver programming that is tailored for learners, including students (PK-12), youth, teachers, families, adults, and middle school and high school teens. Facilitators utilize learner-centered facilitation strategies to encourage learners to think critically about the natural world and their place in it, and actively seek out relevant content knowledge. The Learning Facilitator will implement programs while working with other team members as appropriate. The Learning Facilitator will assist in the daily setup and any preparation that is needed before and after each program. The Learning Facilitator demonstrates ownership and autonomy in each program cycle while contributing to a culture of collaboration. They actively participate in reflective activities as it relates to their instructional quality. This position is primarily responsible for facilitating learning experiences at Shedd, in the field, in local communities, and in online environments.

Requirements

Pursuing or holding a Bachelor’s degree in education, life science, environmental science, museum studies, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
1+ year of experience engaging with learners in formal or informal settings
Willing to be CPR and first aid certified (advanced wilderness/outdoor training required in some situations); Shedd will provide these trainings as needed
Learn new technology and new computer applications
Experience and comfort using a computer and basic writing, presentation, and spreadsheet applications
Solve problems using available information and resources
Understand basic mathematical relationships and formulas
Communicate professionally with various audiences
Read, write, speak, and comprehend English
A valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a valid driver's license
Willingness to implement programs in water and/or in wilderness settings
Willingness to be trained to handle animals for education programs
Strong organizational and time management skills
Strong written and oral communication skills
Applicants must be comfortable in deep water and must be able to pass a swim test within 6 months of being hired. The swim test must be administered by a certified lifeguard.
Swim 200 meters without difficulty (any stroke, no time limit)
Tread water for ten minutes without difficulty (deep water, no touching sides or bottom of pool)

Nice To Haves

Some experience designing learning experiences
Experience working with students, teens, youth, and/or families from Chicago communities or other urban areas
Experience with culturally relevant science education practices and instructional strategies
Experience facilitating environmental education and conservation-based programming
Experience working with diverse audiences
Bilingualism (Spanish/English preferred)
Experience facilitating outdoor program activities such as canoeing, hiking, snorkeling, camping, kayaking, and other water-based experiences, etc.
Comfort working in team-based environments.

Responsibilities

Facilitate engaging, learner-centered programs aligned to programmatic goals and outcomes
Assist in seasonal program and lesson development with other staff as appropriate
Stay current on relevant best practices (instructional strategies, content areas, etc.)
Utilize resources such as live animals, local natural areas, technology, and other tools
Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability
Work with various audience groups on teams or independently
Maintain resources, materials, and programming spaces
Continually incorporate assessment data in program facilitation.
Participate in project-related and skills-based trainings
Collaborate with internal and external partners
Actively participate in your own professional development.
Use diverse, equitable, accessible, inclusive, and justice (DEAIJ) practices in lesson design
Demonstrate leadership in accordance with Shedd’s mission, vision, and values
Fulfill other duties as required

Benefits

We offer competitive compensation packages and opportunities for professional growth within our organization.
Medical Insurance, including FSA and HSA plan options
Vision and Dental Insurance
Accrued Paid Time Off
Up to 12 Paid Holidays
Life Insurance
Parental Leave and Adoption Assistance
401(k)
Discounted Parking and Public Transit Subsidies
Employee Assistance Program
Employee Wellness program, including Preventive Care Incentive
Employee Discounts
Employee Tickets