Learning Specialist

Shedd Aquarium•Chicago, IL

1d•Hybrid

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 Specialist uses creativity, promising instructional practices, and evaluation data to design, implement, and authentically evaluate programs that support various levels of Shedd’s learning framework. Learning Specialists utilize learner-centered teaching strategies to encourage learners to think critically about the natural world and their place in it, actively seek out relevant content knowledge, and evaluate learning using authentic and formal assessment techniques. The Learning Specialist demonstrates ownership and autonomy in each program cycle while contributing to a culture of collaboration. They actively participate in reflective activities as they relate to their instructional quality. This position is primarily responsible for developing and facilitating learning experiences at Shedd, in the field, in local communities, and in online environments.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in education, life science, environmental science, museum studies or a related field, or equivalent experience.
2+ years of experience teaching in either a formal or informal setting
1+ year of experience designing learning experiences
Strong written and oral communication skills
Strong organizational and time management skills
Willingness to be trained to handle animals for education programs
Willingness to implement programs aboard research vessels, in water, and/or in wilderness settings for multiple weeks
A valid driver’s license or the ability to obtain a valid driver's license
Read, write, speak, and comprehend English
Communicate professionally with various audiences
Understand basic mathematical relationships and formulas
Understand basic budgeting
Solve problems using available information and resources
Experience and comfort using a computer and basic writing, presentation, and spreadsheet applications
Learn new technology and new computer applications
Willing to be CPR and first aid certified (advanced wilderness/outdoor training required in some situations); Shedd will provide these trainings as needed

Nice To Haves

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 and/or creating environmental education and conservation-based programming
Bilingualism (Spanish/English is a plus)
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

Develop engaging programs aligned to programmatic goals and outcomes
Facilitate learner-centered programs
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 planning and 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