Working with Nanaimo Science

Nanaimo Science is a non-profit charitable organization that provides hands-on science programming to children, schools, and the public.
Nanaimo Science offers several programs for children throughout the year, including after-school clubs, weekend programs, preschool programs, school break camps, homeschool programs, and public programming.

We are hiring an Outreach Educator!

This position would be hired to develop and deliver programs with a primary focus on science education and outreach. Activities in this portfolio would include developing and delivering homeschool and public school programs, after-school activities, Science in the Park programs (outdoor science activities), taking part in science/environmental community events (e.g. Science Sunday Expo), and other programs through our “Science on the Move” branch across the central Vancouver Island region.

Daily work will also include supporting existing and new programs, working with colleagues on lesson plan development, planning activities and events, and general administration of programming at Nanaimo Science under the supervision and guidance of the Executive Director.

Work will be based out of the Nanaimo Science studio at Country Club Centre, however, some program delivery will be done in schools, outdoors on school grounds, and in parks/greenspaces/beaches. Travel to these locations will typically be provided via the use of the Nanaimo Science “Science on the Move” van – a full drivers’ license and a clean drivers’ abstract is an important asset for this position.

This is a very rewarding job with great opportunities to develop teaching skills, increase your skills in science communication, and work with a dedicated team to help foster a curiosity for science in young people and members of the public.

Daily tasks will include:

You will provide outdoor education to children, school groups and the public, sharing science education in an outdoor setting.
You will run workshops for school groups at parks, beaches and greenspaces; provide nature interpretation to the public; and work with Nanaimo Science to provide environmental education to children and youth.
Occasionally assisting with Nanaimo Science summer camps (e.g. working at camps, preparing materials for activities, helping with clean up and organization, supervising children throughout the day, and ensuring that they are safe at all times.
Other Nanaimo Science duties, as needed.

Responsibilities include:

Ensuring the safety and security of children at all times.
Working with colleagues to ensure age-appropriate activities are delivered, and that educational content is presented accurately.
Managing dynamics of the group of children in camps, including applying appropriate behaviour management techniques as necessary
Communicating with the Executive Director for any activity feedback, equipment or materials needs, issues with regards to children attending camp, or any other matters.

Qualifications:

Have a passion for outreach and teaching science;
Have a strong background in Science (Biology, Chemistry, Math, RMOT, Physics, etc.),Engineering, Computing Science, or Education – ideally, candidates should have successfully completed some university-level science courses;
Be a self-motivated and conscientious person who can work independently and in teams;
Ideally have experience working with children in a camp or educational setting;
Be willing and able to work outside with groups of children in all types of weather;
Ideally have a full drivers’ license and comfortable driving our Science on the Move vehicles.
Be able to lift up to 35 lbs; and
Canadian citizen or permanent resident, or have refugee status in Canada
Between 16 and 30 years of age at the start of employment
Be willing to have a criminal background check for work with vulnerable sector individuals.

Expected hours: 30 – 40 per week
Benefits: On-site parking
Work Location: In person

Nanaimo Science is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and equitable workplace. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities, including Indigenous Peoples, racialized communities, persons with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQ2S+ community. We value diverse perspectives and believe they strengthen our work and impact in the community.

Looking to Volunteer?

Nanaimo Science is always seeking volunteers to assist with programs or serve as experts in special sessions!

Volunteering with us is a rewarding way to give back and develop skills in science communication and child engagement.

Requirements:

Must be at least 14 years old; those under 19 need parental permission.
Must provide your own transportation.
Full COVID-19 vaccination is required; proof needed.
Volunteers work alongside staff and do not count towards adult-to-student ratios.

Volunteer Opportunities Include:

Assisting during Science in the Park (summer) and the Science Sunday Expo (February).
Supporting summer, spring, winter, and Pro-D camps.
Helping with weekend programs like Saturday Morning Science.
Organizing supplies at the Nanaimo Science studio on weekdays.

We only accept committed volunteers willing to undergo training.

Register here: Volunteer Application Form

If you work in a STEM field and are interested in a “Meet a Scientist” session or wish to be added to our expert contacts, please email us at info@nanaimoscience.org.

Hey Parents!

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