Job Title: Director of Education
Department: Education
Reports To: President/CEO
FLSA Status: Exempt
Summary
The Director of Education provides the vision, leadership, and strategic direction for education programs at the Dayton Society of Natural History (DSNH) including the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery and SunWatch Indian Village/Archeological Park. Responsible for the development, implementation and direction of all DSNH education programs. This position is responsible to direct, coordinate and supervise all activities of the Education Department. Educational programs include adults, teachers, and students on-site, virtual, and off-site.
This position will serve as the organization liaison to schools (traditional and non-traditional, public and nonpublic and home school), higher educational institutions, the community, civic organizations, government, and trade organizations to promote DSNH STEM education initiatives. As the leader of innovative STEM learning initiatives at DSNH, this role has significant impact on all visitors, guests, students, and community members served.
This position reports to the President and CEO of DSNH. As a member of management, this position represents and advocates for Education strategy and programs in the institution as well as with the Board of Trustees.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
- Participates in institutional strategic planning to determine goals and scope of education programs for institution. Collaborate with other departments in the organization to leverage organizational strategies for educational purposes and to enable education to help other areas do the same.
- Directs the research, development, and application of educational trends and/or technology to all educational programming.
- Works with community, school, corporate, government, and institutional groups and organizations to increase awareness of the DSNH as an educational resource, and to build and strengthen these relationships to promote STEM learning and increase attendance and participation in DSNH programs.
- Reviews didactic material produced by DSNH to ensure educational mission alignment and content accuracy.
- Leads DSNH in diverse and innovative educational experiences that leverage the Museum’s educational expertise, collection, exhibits, and reputation.
- Inspires and leads the development of educational programs and curricula, on-site, off-site, and virtually, paying special attention and focus on building diverse and inclusive experiences and striving to reach underserved audiences.
- Strategically manages and has full budgetary control and responsibility for the Education budget
- Works with the Development and Finance teams to identify and apply for funding from donors, government agencies, corporate and community partners. After funding is secured, works to create surveys, track data, and assist in the grant reporting process.
- Manages revenue and expenses to increase profits of all educational programs in order to enhance existing offerings as well as create new and innovative programs.
- Assesses organizational structure to ensure alignment with the DSNH mission and vision and uses data to inform decisions about modifying or restructuring that may be necessary to effectively and efficiently attain desired outcomes.
- Establishes goals, objectives, and priorities for DSNH staff, interns, and volunteers and establishes plans to meet these goals.
- In general, develops and executes overall long-term strategy for STEM learning at the Museum. The strategy should include, but is not limited to:
- Building a more coherent, efficient, and collaborative organizational structure;
- Increasing the profitability of all educational programs;
- Aligning programs with Museum departments including Collections, Exhibits, and Zoo;
- Raising the profile of DSNH locally and regionally;
- Expanding the reach and relevancy of DSNH to underserved communities;
- Collecting and utilizing data, tracking participants and results, evaluating and assessing outcomes against objectives.
Supervisory Responsibilities
Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.
Education and/or Experience
Master’s Degree in Education, Museum Studies, or STEM field, and at least 5 years of supervisory experience preferred, or Bachelor’s degree and 10 years of related supervisory experience or training or a combination of education and experience. Professional teaching license and leadership experience in STEM related programs, highly preferred.
Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions. While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands or fingers, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls. The employee is required to stand; walk; sit; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this position include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus. The noise level in the work environment is usually low to moderate.
Work Environment
Work is performed in a fast-paced office setting with frequent interruptions. Duties may require sitting for long periods of time. Occasional need to drive a vehicle to other work locations.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The Organization provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment regardless of race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, status as a Vietnam-era or special disabled veteran, or any other protected factor in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, employee development, transfer, promotion, compensation, and corrective action.
If interested, please submit resume to hr@boonshoftmuseum.org.
- Ensures that all guests are professionally welcomed with information to ensure they can enjoy the museum and SunWatch to the fullest extent.
- Provides an outstanding model of customer service standards for all employees and volunteers to follow.
- • Assists as needed with hiring, training, supervision, and scheduling of Guest Services staff.
- Executes and maintains an environment that is welcoming, upbeat, comfortable, and professional. Maintains a clean and orderly workplace that is inviting to guests and creatively promotes the assets and programs of DSNH.
- • Assists in maximizing revenue potential through tight retail inventory control by Ordering, processing shipments, and monitoring inventory.
- Works in partnership with the Guest Services Manager, Community Engagement and Events Manager, Member Services Manager, and Scheduling Coordinator to ensure all groups receive the best experience possible and that all programs, rentals and events, and membership programs are adequately promoted and sold.
- Ensures an adequate and accurate supply of printed materials are available at all times, including but not limited to, membership brochures, museum maps, reciprocal lists, and other collateral materials throughout the museum as needed.
- • Assists with rentals and events as requested in advance.
- Executes all duties of Guest Services staff, including selling general admissions, maintaining the admissions area, selling gift shop merchandise, and having a thorough understanding of our Point-of-Sale system.
JOB TITLE: Eco Eatery Associate
JOB LOCATION: Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
WORK HOURS: Part-Time, Hourly, $14/hour
REPORTS TO: Eco Eatery Manager
Summary: An Eco Eatery Associate is responsible for maintaining an environment that is welcoming, upbeat, and comfortable for all guests. An Eco Eatery Associate will ensure guest satisfaction, membership promotion efforts, and efficient cash-handling procedures. An Eco Eatery Associate will also demonstrate a mastery of all Society-approved cash handling and retail procedures, and effectively and efficiently operate Eco Eatery operations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
- Ensure that all visitors are professionally welcomed with information to make certain that they have the opportunity to enjoy the Museum to the fullest extent
- Provide an outstanding model of customer service standards for all employees and volunteers to follow
- Execute duties, including preparing and serving food in the Eco Eatery, thoroughly understanding the Point of Sale system and all responsibilities associated with customer experience at all sites
- Present a friendly, welcoming, and professional image to visitors
- Be proficient with the proper procedures for entering sales and information into Point of Sales systems
- Be familiar with Museum policies/operations, and relay inquiries and information to appropriate staff
- Utilize proactive sales techniques in the Eco Eatery
- Energetically and consistently promote Eco Eatery promotions
- Maintain a clean, orderly workspace in Eco Eatery areas
- Perform opening and closing procedures for the Eco Eatery
- Assist during special events and private rentals
- Assist the Eco Eatery Manager and Eco Eatery Assistant Manager in daily tasks and special assignments
- Other duties as assigned
Position: Public Programs Internship
Sessions:
- Applications for the May to August session must be received by April 1st
- Applications for the September to December session must be received by August 1st
- Applications for the January-April session must be received by December 1st
Supervisor: Public Programs Manager
Summary:
Interns will join the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery’s education team to learn about the informal education aspects of the museum world. They will lead daily educational programs and provide engaging opportunities for visitors in topics such as chemistry, physics, biology, and more.
Public speaking and interpretation techniques are core skills that will be developed over the course of the internship. Lead daily interactive shows with science demonstrations inside our Science Theater and walk participants through a hands-on science activity in the Do Lab. Additionally, encourage exploration as exhibit guide in key areas of the museum such as the Discovery Zoo, or lead smaller hands on moments with our Toddler Basket and Discovery Table programs. Opportunities to attend training sessions, school programming, and special events will be offered when available.
This is an unpaid internship. Some colleges may offer financial support to interns and/or provide monetary benefits.
Scheduling:
- Internship sessions run for 12 weeks.
- 16 hours per week up to a maximum of 24 hours per week.
- Shifts are 8 hour days from 8:30am-5:00pm with a 30 minute lunch.
- Some shifts may change in response to any special events or requests for assistance.
Requirements:
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Currently enrolled, or seeking enrollment, at the college level.
- Degree backgrounds in education, early childhood development, the sciences, history, and museum studies are our core areas.
- Submit a complete application and resume for an interview.
- Submit paper work for a background check and photo release.
- Attend museum orientation prior to start.
Core Duties:
- Provide educational and engaging content, answer visitor questions, and ensure visitors leave with a positive and memorable experience.
- Lead daily Science Theater and Do Lab presentations for the public.
- Be an Exhibit Guide in core exhibits within the museum such as Discovery Zoo or Ancient Egypt.
- Lead Discovery Table and Toddler Baskets for short hands on science activities.
- Help track visitor and student attendance for accurate record keeping.
- Complete Lab Safety Training to work with and around chemicals in the labs to prepare and lead programming that uses them.
- Plan, research, and develop a project during your internship. This will be discussed with your supervisor early in your internship.
- Work with and assist the education team in other areas such as school programming, field trips, summer camps, and volunteer support.
Interested applicants should send a resume and cover letter to:
Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
2600 DeWeese Parkway
Dayton, OH 45414
OR Email:
jutterback@boonshoftmuseum.org
Location: Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
Work Hours: 16 to 19 hours per week, some weekend work required | Applications for the Winter Session (January – March) must be received by October 15; Summer Session (June – August) by March 15; Fall Session (September – November) by July 15.
Reports To: Curator of Live Animals
Overview:
- The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is seeking applicants for the Animal Care Internship. Interns work with animal care staff for 10 to 14 weeks during Winter, Summer or Fall Sessions and gain experience in the areas of animal care, record keeping, animal enrichment and interpretation of animal exhibits.
- Internships in the Live Animal Department are non-paid positions and hours worked accumulate as volunteer hours.
- Interns will work between 16 and 19 hours per week with a minimum of 190 hours completed. Schedules will be coordinated with the Curator of Live Animals and will include weekend hours.
- Duties include daily maintenance of the animal exhibits, behind the scenes areas, and visitor spaces. Interns will learn how to present educational programs to Museum visitors.
- Each intern must complete an independent project for the Live Animal Department if completing the externship for credit. The project will be selected with guidance from department curators.
Qualifications:
- Interns must be a currently enrolled in college degree program or have completed a college degree within the past two years.
- Interns must be able to perform basic animal care activities including standing for extended periods, bending, sweeping and lifting up to 50 pounds.
- Interns must be able to tolerate the presence of animal fur, feathers, and bedding.
Interested applicants should send a resume and cover letter to:
Associate Curator of Live Animals
Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
2600 DeWeese Parkway
Dayton, OH 45414
Email: ltoth@boonshoftmuseum.org
Applications for the Winter Session (January – March) must be received by October 15; Summer Session (June – August) by March 15; Fall Session (September – November) by July 15.
The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums and houses a diverse collection of over 125 animals.
POSITION: Animal Behavior Internship
LOCATION: Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, Dayton, Ohio
WORK HOURS: 8 hours per week
REPORTS TO: Curator of Live Animals
The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is seeking applicants for the Animal Behavior Internship. Interns work with animal care staff for 12 weeks during Winter, Summer or Fall Sessions and gain experience in animal psychology.
The Animal Behavior Internship is focused on gaining an understanding of “why animals do the thing.” Interns will learn about animal welfare, animal behavior, animal enrichment, and animal training. These four categories help us understand how to improve the lives of animals under human care. Each category has an associated project our intern is to complete to gain an understanding of how animal behavior is measured and understood.
This internship is focused on animal behavior rather than animal husbandry. Interns will not be expected to participate in cleaning habitats or other regular cleaning tasks. Interns will be expected to read scientific articles, stand for long periods of time conducting observational data, and complete research and paperwork pertinent to our animals.
By gaining an understanding of how our animals are spending their time and how they interact with their environment, interns will be providing us with invaluable insight into their lives.
Qualifications
Interns must be currently enrolled in a college degree program or have completed a college degree within the past two years.
Interns must be able to tolerate the presence of animal fur, feathers and bedding.
Interested applicants should send a resume and cover letter to Associate Curator of Live Animals, Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, 2600 DeWeese Parkway, Dayton, OH 45414 or LToth@boonshoftmuseum.org
Applications for the Winter Session (mid-January through April) must be received by October 15; Summer Session (June through August) by March 15; Fall Session (September through November) by July 15.
The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums and houses a diverse collection of over 125 animals
Position: Animal Interpretive Internship – Fall Session (mid-August – November)
Location: Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
Work Hours: 16 hours per week, some weekend work may be required | Applications for the Fall Session (September – November) by July 15.
Reports To: Curator of Live Animals
Overview:
The Animal Interpretive Internship is focused on facilitating students’ interpretive skills and animal ambassador handling techniques. This internship provides interns a unique opportunity to become involved with the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery’s educational efforts on-site, off-site, and at special events. Participants will join a multidiscipline team and collaborate with Education and Live Animals Department team members throughout their internship. In doing so, Interns will gain experiences with established professionals, mentors, and new skills. These skills include, but are not limited to; safe animal handling techniques, public speaking, foundational interpretation skills, collaborative programming, informal education experiences, record keeping, and familiarity in guest relations. The animal ambassador collection includes birds, reptiles, mammals, arthropods, and amphibians. This internship is focused on interpretation utilizing live animals rather than animal husbandry.
- Internships in the Live Animal Department are non-paid positions and hours worked accumulate as volunteer hours. Housing is not provided.
- Interns will work 16 hours per week.
- Schedules will be coordinated with the Curator of Live Animals and Director of Education and may include weekend hours.
Qualifications:
- Interns must be a currently enrolled in college degree program or have completed a college degree within the past two years.
- Interns will be expected to read scientific articles, stand for long periods of time and complete paperwork pertinent to our animals.
- Interns must be able to tolerate the presence of animal fur, feathers, and bedding.
Interested applicants should send a resume and cover letter to:
Associate Curator of Live Animals
Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
2600 DeWeese Parkway
Dayton, OH 45414
OR Email:
ltoth@boonshoftmuseum.org
Applications for the Winter Session (January – March) must be received by October 15; Summer Session (June – August) by March 15; Fall Session (September – November) by July 15.
The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums and houses a diverse collection of over 125 animals
Application for Employment
Please indicate which position you are interested in and forward all resumes and/or applications to hr@boonshoftmuseum.org
or mail to :
Dayton Society of Natural History
attn: HR Department
2600 DeWeese Pkwy
Dayton, OH 45414