Science Instructor

Job Description:

Science Instructor

Description

Description

Join Our Team! Now Hiring Two Part-Time Science Instructors

Inspire the next generation of scientists at the Junior Museum & Zoo!

The City of Palo Alto’s Community Services Department is excited to announce that the Junior Museum & Zoo (JMZ) is currently recruiting for two part-time Science Instructor positions:

About the Junior Museum & Zoo

The Junior Museum & Zoo is a beloved local destination that:

• Serves children from birth to age 8 through its science exhibits and live animal displays
• Supports children up to age 11 through school programs and summer camps
• Welcomes 117,000+ visitors annually
• Delivers 23,000+ science lessons through school and community program

To Learn more about the Junior Museum & Zoo click here.

About the Positions:
Science Instructor I - H With training , the Instructor I schedules, prepares for and facilitates school, family science lessons and summer camps . T his role requires previous teaching experience and some science-content knowledge.

Science Instructor II
Under limited supervision, the Instructor II schedules, prepares for , and facilitates school and family science lessons and summer camps , helps manage program materials, and helps supervises aides and volunteers. This role requires previous teaching experience and in-depth subject knowledge.

We’re looking for dynamic and passionate educators to deliver hands-on science instruction in Life, Physical, and Earth Sciences to preschool and elementary-aged children. Instruction takes place in South Bay and Peninsula area schools, at local open-space preserves, and at the Junior Museum & Zoo itself through field trips, camps, and family programs.

Essential Duties

Essential Duties, Instructor I-H:

• Attend weekly in-person planning meetings on Monday mornings
• Schedule science lessons with school teachers via phone, email, or in person

• Learn lesson curricula by:
  • Observing more experienced instructors
  • Studying written materials and background content
  • Collaborating with team members
• Lead engaging lessons and field trips in schools and public programs
• Prepare materials, clean up, and properly store supplies
• Assist in maintaining program supplies, collections, and equipment

Essential Duties, Instructor II - H:

• Independently plan and prepare curricula for science classes and camps
• Lead engaging lessons and field trips in schools and public programs
• Assign tasks and supervise Instructor Aides and volunteers
• Modify activities to meet the developmental needs of various age groups
• Maintain safety, quality, and alignment with JMZ’s mission

Minimum Qualifications

Instructor I - H

• Proven science teaching ability.
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds
• Must have a thorough and comprehensive understanding of science.

Ideal Qualifications:

• At least two years of experience working with children in an educational setting
• Content knowledge in Life, Physical, and Earth Sciences, as demonstrated through at least a bachelor’s degree in one of the sciences. A degree in early childhood education or elementary education, and a strong interest in science is also acceptable.
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds
• Demonstrated leadership and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently

Instructor II - H

• Two years of experience equivalent to that of a Science Instructor I
• Proven science teaching ability
• Ability to lift up to 15 pounds
• Must have a thorough and comprehensive understanding of science.

Ideal qualifications

• Strong content knowledge in Life, Physical, and Earth Sciences as demonstrated through at least a bachelor’s degree in one of the sciences
• Demonstrated leadership and organizational skills
• Ability to work independently
• At least 5 years of experience teaching science to children in an educational setting.

Other requirements for both Instructor I and II - H:

• Pass pre-employment Background check.
• Provide a negative TB Test result.

Supplemental Information

Application Process

• Complete an online application with cover letter and resume attached.

The Selection Process:

• Applicants will receive recruitment status notifications via email (governmentjobs.com account also has notification status updates).
• Applicants will be screened throughout the posting process and highly qualified candidates may be invited to interview at any time.
• The screening process for this position will include a virtual interview followed by an in-person interview.

Our online application system is provided by NeoGov. If you have problems while applying online, please contact NeoGov's Live Applicant Support at (855) 524-5627 between 6:00 AM and 5:00 PM Pacific Time, Monday - Friday.

The City of Palo Alto is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities, and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with their employer.

City of Palo Alto offers the following benefits to those in a SEIU Hourly position:

Medical Stipend
$3.80 effective the pay period including July 1, 2024.

Sick Leave
Earn .03 hour of sick leave for each hour worked.

Retirement
City of Palo Alto PST (Part-time, Seasonal & Temporary Employees) Retirement Plan

Please note: The City does not participate in CA State Disability Insurance (SDI) or Social Security.

Closing Date/Time: 8/22/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary:

$26.77 - $39.99 Hourly