Science in the City Explorers | Grades 6–8 | After-School Program
Position Overview
The Social Engineering Project (TSEP) is seeking an enthusiastic and student-centered Middle School STEM Facilitator to lead the Science in the City Explorers program at Oak Grove Middle School and Riverview Middle School for the 2026–2027 academic year. This is a part-time, after-school position running the full academic year (two semesters).
The Science in the City Explorers program — powered by Stanford Science in the City — is designed as an early STEM identity-building experience for students in Grades 6–8. The Facilitator will guide students through hands-on science experiments, collaborative challenges, and discovery-based learning, helping young people — particularly Black and Latino students — see themselves as scientists and future STEM professionals.
Position Details
Program
Science in the City Explorers (TSEP / Stanford Science in the City)
Sites
Oak Grove Middle School & Riverview Middle School
Grade Levels
Grades 6–8
Schedule
2 sessions per week, 90 minutes per session
Employment Type
Part-time, After-School
Program Duration
Full Academic Year (August 2026 – June 2027)
Reports To
TSEP Program Director
Key Responsibilities
Program Facilitation
· Facilitate Modular STEM Sessions: Deliver interactive, 90-minute after-school sessions two days per week utilizing project-based learning, visual/tactile experiments, and urban science themes (e.g., urban biology, physics of sound, environmental science).
· Implement the "Skill Blocks" Model: Ensure that modular, drop-in friendly activities allow students who join at any point in the year to participate fully without feeling behind.
· Support Student Success: Guide students through the 30-minute academic support and snack period at the start of each session, providing light-touch homework help and mentorship.
· Foster Community & Recruitment: Partner with school site Teacher Liaisons to drive student recruitment, engage families, and support communication regarding student progress.
· Data & Reporting: Track daily attendance, administer pre- and post-program evaluations, and submit qualitative feedback to support ongoing program refinement.
Student Engagement & Support
- Build positive relationships with students to support attendance, motivation, and retention
- Provide light-touch homework help and academic encouragement during support blocks
- Recognize and celebrate student achievements to reinforce STEM identity
- Introduce students to STEM careers through storytelling, videos, and guest speaker coordination
Family & School Collaboration
- Maintain weekly communication with families through TSEP’s established channels
- Coordinate with the school’s teacher liaison to align program activities with student academic needs
- Support and help facilitate Family STEM Nights once a semester
- Participate in program planning meetings and professional development sessions
Data & Reporting
- Track daily attendance and maintain accurate student records
- Administer pre- and post-program student surveys
- Provide input for program evaluation and end-of-year impact reporting
Qualifications
Required
- Experience working with middle school youth.
- Knowledge of project-based learning.
- Passion for STEM education and making learning fun and accessible.
- Strong classroom management skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Experience working with middle school-aged youth (Grades 6–8) in educational or youth development settings
- Strong relationship-building skills with young people, families, and school staff
- Ability to manage a dynamic group environment with patience and enthusiasm
- Reliable, punctual, and organized
- Comfort working in communities of color; cultural competency with Black and Latino students and families
Preferred
- Bachelor's degree preferred.
- Teaching credential preferred but not required.
- Background or coursework in science, education, biology, environmental science, or a related field
- Prior experience facilitating hands-on or project-based learning programs
- Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus
- Experience with after-school, camp, or community-based programs
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive hourly rate commensurate with experience
- Paid training and onboarding
- Access to TSEP professional development and educator network
- Opportunity to contribute to a meaningful, equity-focused STEM program
About TSEP
The Social Engineering Project, Inc. (TSEP) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding STEM access and opportunity for underrepresented students of color. Through hands-on learning, real-world career exposure, and community-centered programming, TSEP builds pathways from curiosity to career. TSEP operates in partnership with the Mt. Diablo Unified School District.
Pay: $25.70 - $55.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
