Mobile Metals Program Technician | Full Time
Position Description:
Rivers of Steel Heritage Corporation, managers of the Rivers of Steel National Heritage Area, is looking to hire a full-time Mobile Metals Program Technician to facilitate K-12 school and community outreach programming focused on metal casting, blacksmithing, and machining. Part of a grant-funded initiative, this position is anticipated to start October 1, 2026 with a project ending date of December 31, 2028.
Rivers of Steel’s arts and educational programs are engaging, informed, and hands-on formal and informal programs for school groups, families, scouts, and higher education groups. The Mobile Metals Program Technician will work in collaboration with the Education Program Logistics Associate and Mobile Metals Instructor; along with Rivers of Steel administrative, arts, and historic resources departments.
Reports to: Metal Arts Coordinator and The Director of Education Status: Full-time, Exempt Salary: $45,000 - 50,000 annually
Key Responsibilities:
- Driving the mobile unit to and from schools/public engagements.
- Aluminum casting operations: safe set-up, operation, trouble-shooting, and maintenance. -Responsible for executing in-person sessions that consist of 1-4 hour hands-on activities, half-day programs, full-day events, career exploration demonstrations, and educator engagement sessions.
- Responsible for coordinating inventory of supplies and ordering with Education Program Logistics Associate and Metal Arts Technician.
- Assist with setup and cleanup of equipment prior to and following programs.
- Facilitate instructional sessions, activities, simulations, and demonstrations with K-12 students and teachers.
- Support Metal Arts staff with public and private workshops, demonstrations, special events, corporate events, and team-building experiences.
- Perform other duties and responsibilities as required.
Qualifications:
- Must have a valid drivers license and demonstrate a clear and safe driving record with experience operating large vehicles and trailers.
- Must have experience in small crucible set-up, trouble-shooting, maintenance, and operation.
- Experience operating heavy equipment preferred.
- Must have technical understanding of various mold making and sculptural techniques.
- Must have 1-3 years experience working with K-12 students as well as the public
- Must have basic competency in Microsoft office suite.
- Must have excellent interpersonal, communication, time management and organizational skills; and ability to meet deadlines.
- Demonstrated ability to prioritize and achieve objectives efficiently; mix of team collaboration and independent self-management.
- Expected to attend all meetings and training events.
- Weekday, school hours availability with occasional nights and weekends
- Experience working with stakeholders from diverse sectors and backgrounds is a plus
- Experience with machining preferred
- Ability to undertake some physical activity and be able to lift 50 lbs.
- Enthusiasm for Rivers of Steel's mission; demonstrated passion for arts and culture, history, community engagement, and / or tourism—as an ambassador of Rivers of Steel, applicants are expected to enjoy working with the public and develop an evolving knowledge of the organization's and the region's cultural assets.
- Must have or be able to obtain Pennsylvania Act 33/34 and FBI clearances.
- Must have strong verbal and written/email communication skills and the ability to speak effectively in front of an audience.
Who We Are:
Rivers of Steel showcases the artistry and innovation of southwestern Pennsylvania's industrial and cultural heritage through its historical and 21st-century attractions – offering unique experiences via tours, workshops, exhibitions, festivals, and more.
Behind the scenes, Rivers of Steel supports economic revitalization – working at the grassroots level to deepen community partnerships, promote heritage tourism, and preserve local recreational and cultural resources for future generations. For additional information, please visit www.riversofsteel.com.
Rivers of Steel’s arts and educational programs are engaging, informed, and hands-on formal and informal programs for school groups, families, scouts, and higher education groups within the METAL (ACENet) program in collaboration with the Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation (IACMI). Our primary goal is to serve 3,200 K-12 youth with mobile education programs in STEAM concepts via aluminum casting, forging, and machining by December 31, 2028. Outreach territories include the 60 mile radius of Pittsburgh. Primarily Southwestern Pennsylvania, with occasional trips to SE Ohio and North WV in final year. Rivers of Steel aims to deploy a comprehensive mobile training unit for K-12 and community partners, utilizing existing networks and relationships.
Application Instructions
Please provide a detailed resume and cover letter delineating your relevant experience to [email protected]. Applications will be accepted through August 31, 2026 (or until filled). The position is expected to start October 1, 2026. This position is a grant-funded, temporary position with a project completion date of December 31, 2028.
Rivers of Steel is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring, transferring, promoting, terminating, paying, training, benefits, or other actions affecting employees. Rivers of Steel does not make any personnel decisions based on race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, ancestry, marital status, veteran’s status, non-job related disability or handicap, or other prohibited criteria as these terms are used under applicable law. Rivers of Steel abides by applicable federal, state, and local laws that govern human rights in the employment process.
Pay: $45,000.00 - $50,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 403(b)
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
