Temporary Summer Camp Instructor, Full Time

Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh•Pittsburgh, PA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

About the Daniel G. and Carole L. Kamin Science Center Kamin Science Center is dedicated to inspiring learning and curiosity by connecting science and technology with everyday life. By making science both relevant and fun, the Science Center’s goal is to increase science literacy in the region and motivate young people to seek careers in science and technology. One of the four Carnegie Museums, the Science Center is Pittsburgh’s premier science exploration destination and the region’s most visited museum, reaching more than 500,000 people annually through its hands-on exhibits, camps, classes, and educational programs. Please scroll to the bottom of this page to see information on the starting pay rate. Kamin Science Center is looking for high-energy camp instructors who will deliver innovative and engaging science programming during summer camps. Instructors will facilitate hands-on activities in a wide variety of science topics to groups of preK-12 campers, and assist in summer camp operations. Curriculum, content, and job training will be provided. This is a temporary full time position expected to run from May 2026 – August 2026.

Requirements

Experience working with children is required.
Demonstrate strong communication skills, have excellent customer service skills, be well organized, able to function effectively in a team environment, and be able to manage student groups of varied sizes.
Must have a passion for the values of first-hand engagement with science, and the priority of increasing students’ interest and involvement in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math).
Must be engaging, personable, approachable, highly adaptable, creative, and flexible in solving problems in a high energy environment.
Must be able to work independently and in a team.
Must be able to work collaboratively with other members of the STEM Education department to develop and refine programs, assemble materials, and perform logistical functions.
Job is primarily mobile in nature.
Programs involve full mobility and require the ability to lift about 20 pounds.
Position works with foods processed in facilities with nuts, eggs, and dairy products.
Chemicals vary by program.
Must attend safety trainings regularly and be current on SDS compliance.
The following PA Act 153 clearances, or proof of application of clearances, are required beginning employment and as a condition of continued employment: Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check FBI Fingerprint Criminal Background Check Obtaining the required clearances is completed as part of the new hire process.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience working in the classroom, camp or in an after-school environment is recommended.
A degree in education and/or experience facilitating science or camp activities is preferred.
Students pursuing degrees in science, museum studies, and/or education are encouraged to apply.
Ideal candidates are those who will be available for 8 full weeks of the summer, including the week of July 4.

Responsibilities

Facilitate and present hands-on STEM lessons and activities, demonstrations, and project-based experiences for preK-8 grade campers.
Assist in summer camp operations which may include preparing supplies, pre/post camp supervision, and other duties as assigned.
Collaborate with staff and partners to customize STEM curriculum and contribute suggestions and new ideas through frequent feedback
Remain current on developments in STEM.
Become familiar with the history and challenges of women and minorities in STEM fields.
Ensure that experiences are relevant for participants.
Present accurate information on STEM topics and careers.
Share enthusiasm about STEM careers and topics.
Serve as a role model for participants.
Assemble and facilitate safe handling of equipment and supplies.
Attend meetings, program outings, and training sessions.
Become familiar with what the Science Center has to offer, especially the STEM Education Department.
Become familiar with the personnel and operations of the Science Center.
Maintain excellent working relationships with other staff including volunteers.
Assist in the overall functioning of the team, helping to ensure a successful science experience for participants attending.
Be the front-line source of action by contacting the appropriate people (security, managers, etc.), when medical or other emergencies occur, knowing where emergency equipment is stored and being familiar with proper emergency procedures.
Maintain equipment/ supplies in the area of assigned duties by proper use of equipment, assistance in simple cleaning activities, and continual attention to the state of the equipment in use.
Lead participants with designed content and curriculum via the use of science demonstrations, presentations, and explanations. Provide excellent customer service by assisting with problem solving and crowd management.
Stay current with new exhibits and programs in the Science Center.
Work with STEM Department staff to provide organized content and science delivery of assigned camp curriculum.
Strive for excellence in all aspects of job performance. Consistently demonstrate positive work outcomes, modeling successful skills and strategies for colleagues.
Actively seek professional growth opportunities and keep abreast of new and emerging technologies, techniques, and applications within both the science/technology field and the museum field to grow professionally and to ensure the highest-quality experience for visitors at Science Center.
When required, serve as a representative of your department, always championing Science Center’s mission, and the interests of Science Center staff and visitors.
At all times, uphold the Science Centers’s Four Keys of Operation: Safety, Courtesy, The Experience, and Efficiency; interact with all colleagues in a professional and respectful manner in accordance with Carnegie Museums Core Competencies and Kamin Science Center Community Norms.
Serve at all times as an exemplary advocate for and model of Kamin Science Center’s values and demonstrates commitment to inclusion and accessibility efforts at the museum.
Work collaboratively with other Science Center departments and/or Carnegie Museums components to eliminate programmatic silos and create a holistic visitor experience.
Perform basic departmental duties and other activities as required by your supervisor.
Complete Mandated Reporter Training within 2 weeks of hiring.
Other duties as assigned.