Space Education Specialist-Offsite Programs

United States Space Foundation•Colorado Springs, CO

3d•$58,000 - $68,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Space Education Specialist delivers hands-on space and STEM learning experiences for students, educators, and community audiences. The role primarily develops and delivers offsite curriculum and programming, including Space in the Community (SiTC), Space Education Programs (SEPs), and teacher professional development. The Specialist may also support onsite Discovery Center programs and activities based on organizational and program needs. Through standards-aligned curriculum, energetic instruction, and program coordination, the position helps extend Space Foundation’s mission within the Discovery Center and throughout the community. The position is full-time, based at Space Foundation headquarters in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Under the current hybrid work policy, it may be eligible for up to one work-from-home day per week, subject to approval and project needs; remaining workdays are onsite. The schedule is Tuesday through Saturday, holidays excepted, with usual business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Evening events may be required. The role includes participation in offsite meetings or events and travel of up to one week at a time, up to eight times a year.

Requirements

A four-year degree in education, science, or a related field; STEM is preferred. Applicants must be able to explain how they can implement educational programming with their related degree or have at least one year of experience implementing educational programming.
Ability to facilitate engaging, inquiry-based learning for diverse audiences and connect complex space-related concepts to real-world applications.
Strong organizational and time-management skills, including the ability to manage multiple priorities.
Collaborative, innovative, and solution-focused approach to educational programming.
Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
Comfort facilitating and recording virtual programs using video conferencing technology.
Understanding of the Next Generation Science Standards and 21st Century Essential Skills.
Proficiency in Learning Management Systems (LMS), including content management, program delivery, learner enrollment, and ongoing course administration.
Familiarity with project-based learning and inquiry-based education methods.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and educational technologies.
Ability to walk, lift, or carry items weighing up to 50 pounds, with reasonable accommodation as needed.

Nice To Haves

One to three years of classroom experience teaching grades 6–12 in science, math, or technology.
Active teaching certification.
Experience working with 3-D printing and other technology.
Experience designing and delivering learning experiences for adult learners.
Experience developing and building online courses in an LMS, preferably Canvas, including instructional content organization and course design.

Responsibilities

Deliver hands-on educational experiences through field trips, labs, camps, and public programs aligned with the Discovery Center’s space and STEM education mission.
Support onsite and offsite programming, including teacher professional development, outreach events, and community STEM initiatives.
Collaborate with the education team to plan, evaluate, and improve program content and delivery.
Maintain and organize lab spaces, materials, and equipment to ensure safe, high-quality learning environments.
Engage guests and foster curiosity, enthusiasm, and understanding of space exploration and STEM concepts.
Develop, implement, and refine curriculum and lesson plans integrating space science concepts and interactive learning for diverse audiences.
Assist with scheduling, setup, teardown, and other program logistics.
Collect and report program data to evaluate impact and support grant and funding requirements.
Perform other duties as required or assigned.