Space Education Specialist

United States Space Foundation•Colorado Springs, CO

29d•Onsite

About The Position

The Space Education Specialist is responsible for delivering high-quality, hands-on educational experiences that inspire curiosity and learning at the Space Foundation Discovery Center (SFDC). This position focuses on space-themed STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education through the development, implementation, and facilitation of engaging field trips, labs, and interactive programs. The Specialist supports both on-site and select off-site educational activities, working directly with students, teachers, and visitors to create meaningful and memorable learning experiences that align with the Discovery Center’s mission and educational goals. POSITION FOCUS: The Space Education Specialist (Offsite) develops and delivers engaging STEM education programs that extend the Space Foundation’s mission beyond the Discovery Center and into the community. This role designs and refines curriculum for initiatives such as Space in the Community (SiTC), teacher professional development, and other outreach programs, ensuring content is rigorous, interactive, and impactful. The specialist facilitates these programs for diverse audiences—from elementary students to adult educators—providing hands-on learning experiences that spark curiosity about space and support effective STEM instruction. The position balances curriculum development and program delivery, including refining SiTC curriculum (15%), developing and enhancing teacher professional development and SEPS curriculum (20%), and delivering SiTC programs (20%), SEP programs (20%), and teacher professional development experiences (20%) for community and educator audiences. This role also includes active teaching and periodic travel (up to once per month) to support offsite program delivery.

Requirements

A four-year degree in education, science or a related field; STEM preferred. Must be able to explain how you can implement educational programing with your related degree or have a minimum of 1 year of experience implementing educational programming.
Demonstrated ability to effectively teach and facilitate learning in informal educational settings, using engaging, inquiry-based approaches to inspire curiosity, adapt to diverse learning styles, and connect complex space-related concepts to real-world experiences for varied audiences.
Strong time management skills, with a proven ability to organize and manage multiple priorities effectively.
Capable of adapting to a dynamic environment while maintaining a solution-focused approach to meet the demands of a space-inspired curriculum.
Comfortable conducting video conferences and recording sessions for virtual programs.
Innovative thinker who enjoys collaboration and is forward-thinking in educational practices.
Excellent oral and written communication skills, adaptable to various audiences, including management, media, and public groups.
Strong interpersonal skills, with a talent for engaging individuals in a professional setting and building relationships.
An understanding of the Next Generation Science Standards and 21st Century Essential Skills.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and various educational technologies, with a focus on enhancing learning experiences.

Nice To Haves

1-3 years of classroom experience teaching grades 6-12 in Science, Math, or Technology preferred.
Experience working with 3-D printing and other technology is preferred.
Familiarity with project-based learning and inquiry-based education methods.

Responsibilities

Deliver engaging, hands-on educational experiences through field trips, labs, camps, and public programs that align with the Discovery Center’s space and STEM education mission.
Support both on-site and off-site programming, including teacher professional development, outreach events, and community STEM initiatives.
Collaborate with the education team to plan, evaluate, and continuously improve program content and delivery.
Maintain and organize lab spaces, materials, and equipment to ensure safe, high-quality learning environments.
Provide exceptional guest engagement by fostering curiosity, enthusiasm, and understanding of space exploration and STEM concepts.
Develop, implement, and refine curriculum and lesson plans that integrate space science concepts and interactive learning for diverse audiences.
Assist with scheduling, setup, teardown, and other program logistics to ensure seamless delivery.
Collect and report program data to evaluate impact and support grants and funding requirements.
May perform other duties as required or assigned.