Sprouting Science Facilitator (Designated)

Department:	Science Education
Supervisor:	Coordinator of Science Education
Position Category:	Full time, co-op student role
Hours of Work:	35 hours per week; 16 weeks
Start Date:	September 5, 2023
Application Deadline:	August 31, 2023

 

Position Summary:

For over 35 years, the Discovery Centre has developed a reputation for being Nova Scotia’s leader in the delivery of exciting hands-on, minds-on science programming for youth. 

The main objective of the Sprouting Science Facilitator is to plan and develop afterschool programming centred around community gardening. STEM topics to be explored include food security, local sustainability, and climate change, along with basic agricultural concepts on growing plants. The Sprouting Science Facilitator works with community organizations to provide opportunities for young learners of African heritage to strengthen their STEM skills through hands-on activities.

The Sprouting Science Facilitator will benefit from the opportunity of working in a multicultural and dynamic science setting, providing significant opportunities to improve upon their communication skills, organizational skills, knowledge of science, knowledge of educational practices, and ability to work with children. The Facilitator will gain time management skills, experience working in a multicultural team setting, confidence in teaching and delivering educational programs, supervisory skills, and experience mentoring youth.

This role is designated for co-op students who identify as African Nova Scotians, members of the Black community, and candidates of African descent.

Description of Tasks:

The Sprouting Science Facilitator works in the Science Education department and reports to the Coordinator of Science Education. The primary tasks of the position are:

• Working with science educators and community organizations to plan and develop a series of interdisciplinary science lessons centred around community gardening  
• Delivering afterschool science programming
• Coordinate/purchase supplies, working within the program budget
• Working with community organizations to coordinate activities and special guests 
• Preparing a final report on the program
• Supporting galleries in the Centre outside of programming times and offering a positive visitor experience

Qualifications:

Education: Post-secondary studies in science, education, recreation, or a related discipline

Experience: Experience working with children in an educational or recreational, museum, or camp setting; experience supervising staff will be considered an asset; past experience with gardening/planting/agriculture in a hobbyist or professional setting is considered an asset

Language Requirements: Bilingual (English/French) preferred; fluency in English is required

Competencies:

• Exceptional communication skills
• Strong leadership skills
• Able to work independently and take initiative
• Highly organized
• Works well as part of a team

Other Qualifications:

• Proficient in MS Office applications
• Must pass a criminal record check or vulnerable sector check
• First Aid and WHMIS certification an asset
• Valid class 5 driver’s license and clean driving history with at least one year of driving experience 

Eligibility: Applicants must qualify for the Nova Scotia Co-op Program in order to be considered. This role is designated for African Nova Scotians/members of the Black community candidates of African descent.

Measurable Outcomes:

The Sprouting Science Facilitator will: 

• Successfully collaborate with the Imhotep’s Legacy Academy, Akoma Holdings and the Science Education team at Discovery Centre in the planning and development of the program, rehearse and deliver activities
• Manage program funds and ensure all supplies are purchased while keeping below budget
• Provide a safe and positive experience for all program participants and Discovery Centre visitors, using feedback to measure success and make improvements
• Make recommendations for future activities and complete an end-of-term report

This position is an excellent opportunity for any individual that is continuing in science or education, or who is interested in a career in public service or any career working with youth.

Application:

Applications are to be emailed to .  Applicants are to submit their resume, cover letter, and supply contact information (both phone and email if possible) for three references. Please note the position that you are applying for in the subject line of your email application. All applications will be reviewed but only those chosen for an interview will be contacted. All applicants are thanked in advance for their interest. Please note: this position is dependent upon receipt of funding.

Discovery Centre is committed to leveraging our facility, people, and programming to create inclusive spaces that ignite a passion for science and discovery. We are also committed to advancing diversity, inclusion, equity, and accessibility practices within our workplace, public engagement spaces, and programming. Our Centre’s Board of Directors, management, and staff believe diverse participation and representation are essential and that our networks thrive when we create an inclusive and equitable culture where all people can see themselves reflected, feel respected, and have their contributions valued.  

Discovery Centre promotes equal employment opportunities for all job applicants, and we encourage applications from candidates who self-identify as a member of an underrepresented group, including Indigenous people (especially Mi’kmaq), people of Black/African descent (especially African Nova Scotians), members of other racialized groups, women, people with disabilities, and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. 

We are committed to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment, starting with the hiring process. If you need to be accommodated during any phase of the evaluation process, please contact to request specialized accommodation. All information received in relation to accommodation will be kept confidential.