Museum Teacher/Guide

The Tsongas Industrial History Center is an education partnership between the University of Massachusetts Lowell School of Education and the National Park Service at Lowell National Historical Park. Utilizing these unique historic resources, the Center facilitates experiential learning of industrial history, science, and engineering content through educational programs. Museum teachers engage students in active learning by through effective questioning, participatory activities, and relevant age-appropriate discussions. Responsibilities include:\ - Leading effective, curriculum-based, educational programs that consist of hands-on activities and interactive visits to various locations within Lowell National Historical Park.\ - Using established program content outlines to communicate program themes and objectives, and to meet the age, grade level, and capabilities of students.\ - Following itineraries and making logistical changes as needed.\ - Demonstrating and instructing students in the use of such equipment as hand looms, water wheels, and laboratory devices.\ - Engaging and communicating effectively with groups of students, with the assistance of the classroom teachers and chaperones.\ - Observing all standard operating procedures for opening and closing exhibit sites, inventorying, and preparing equipment and supplies, and setting-up and cleaning-up workshops.\ - Creating a positive, safe, and inclusive learning environment for all visitors.\ - Supporting engagement with and stewardship of national park sites and historic artifacts.\ - Engaging in self-directed study (e.g., reading, web research, visits to Park Museum exhibits, and discussions with colleagues) during regular work hours.\ - Participate in TIHC-organized full-day professional development sessions, and attending 2:15-3:00 pm sessions if possible, contributing to discussions and activities.\ - Exemplifying the University's commitment to customer service and inclusion.\ - Contributing to a positive work environment as well as building good relationships with staff and partners.\ - Ensuring optimal customer service for internal and external partners in response to all requests for service and information.\ Museum Teachers Schedule:\ - TIHC programs run on a September through June season.\ - Work fluctuates during the season; October and November may be busy; December through February see fewer programs. April through June are very busy.\ - Participation in our summer programs may be offered but are not guaranteed or required.\ - Museum Teachers have a say in the number and days of the week they are available to work.\ - Minimum availability is two or more full days per week. Workdays are Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.\ - Weekly schedule varies by number of bookings per week.\ - The weekly schedule is posted and confirmed two weeks in advance.\ - Museum Teachers follow a specific Program Outline and itinerary each day.\ - Pay rate is hourly, with step increases as budget permits.\ - Training is included during orientation and scheduled throughout the year.\ Minimum Qualifications:\ - Minimum of two years' experience working with children (e.g., classroom teacher or aide, after-school program presenter, scout leader, camp counselor, youth group leader)\ - Excellent communication skills\ - Ability to work effectively with diverse groups.\ Additional Considerations:\ - Ability to work 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for regular programming.\ - Able to walk and climb stairs indoors and outdoors in all weather.\ - This is a seasonal position with school programs Monday-Friday from September through June, with occasional evening and weekend programs.\ - Work fluctuates during the season; Mid-March through mid-June are typically very busy.\ - For full job description, please email [email protected]