Company Description
At San Diego Youth Science (SDYS), we design and teach custom, hands-on curricula that enrich in-school science instruction across partnering campuses. Our inquiry-based lab sessions spark natural curiosity and transform students into active investigators through authentic, student-driven experimentation. By directly collaborating with local scientists and integrating their ongoing research into our labs, we bring cutting-edge, place-based phenomena to life, connecting students and classroom teachers to real-world discoveries happening locally.
Role Description
We’re looking for a passionate, part-time Science Educator to join our fun and dynamic team! You’ll inspire UTK–8th grade students with engaging, hands-on science lessons and work alongside fellow educators to foster a creative, inclusive learning environment. With flexible hours, competitive pay, and plenty of room for growth, this role is perfect for anyone who loves both science and education.
What You’ll Do
- Deliver Dynamic Science Labs: Facilitate high-energy, hands-on science lessons in elementary classrooms, outdoor field sites, and coastal environments (including tidepools and dirt trails).
- Master & Personalize Curriculum: Thoroughly review lab materials, scientific equipment, and curricula prior to instruction to lead lessons with accuracy, creativity, and enthusiasm.
- Collaborative Instruction: Teach independently or co-teach alongside team members, adapting instruction to foster curiosity and active inquiry for diverse K–12 learners.
- Manage Materials & Logistics: Oversee the setup, breakdown, and transport of lab equipment, including soil, water-testing units, preserved artifacts, and live specimens.
- Maintain Safety & Engagement: Employ positive group management strategies to ensure a safe, inclusive, and structured environment during complex hands-on investigations.
- Serve as a Community Ambassador: Represent the organization with warmth and clarity when interacting with students, classroom teachers, school administrators, and families.
What We’re Looking For
- An adaptable, high-energy educator who genuinely loves working with youth and inspiring scientific curiosity.
- A clear, enthusiastic communicator confident in public speaking and small-group engagement.
- A collaborative team player who takes initiative, problem-solves on the fly, and maintains high standards of reliability and punctuality.
Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline (preferred) or Elementary Education with a strong science background.
- Experience: 1-2 years direct experience teaching hands-on K–12 science learning in classroom or informal settings (e.g., museums, nature centers, aquariums, or field sites).
- Pedagogical Alignment: Demonstrated commitment to a positive classroom environment; equity, diversity, and inclusive instructional practices.
- Credentials: Valid California Teaching Credential or Emergency Substitute Credential preferred (must be obtained before or upon employment).
Physical Requirements & Logistics
- Background Check: LiveScan fingerprint check and professional reference contacts.
- Physical Stamina: Ability to stand, move, and actively instruct for up to 5–6 hours per day on varied terrain (sand, dirt trails, tidepools, uneven rocks).
- Lifting Capacity: Ability to lift, carry, and maneuver equipment bins weighing up to 50 lbs.
- Animal & Specimen Handling: Comfortable handling live local marine/terrestrial organisms (eg.- crabs, sea urchins, snails, mice, snakes, insects, etc.) and scientific artifacts.
- Transportation: Reliable transportation to school sites throughout San Diego County.
- Punctual and Professional: Science lab set up can be as early as 7:00 am at schools.
Position Details
- Compensation: Competitive hourly rate of 20-25 per hour, commensurate with education and teaching experience.
- Schedule: Part-time (20–30 hours/week, with potential for expansion based on program needs). Follows the school academic calendar with weekday shifts ranging between 7:00 AM – 3:45 PM; there is NO WORK over school holidays and breaks; occasional weekend events.
- Availability: Minimum of 3 weekdays of open availability required. Final schedules are published at least two weeks in advance.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: $20.00 - $24.00 per hour
Expected hours: 20.0 – 30.0 per week
Benefits:
Application Question(s):
- How does this role fit into your long-term professional path, and what skills do you hope to grow while teaching with SDYS?
- What specific experiences, technical knowledge, or teaching approaches will you bring to help translate real-world local research into exciting, hands-on lab experiences for K–5 students?
- Can you share a specific moment where you facilitated hands-on discovery or an “aha” moment for young learners?
Education:
Location:
- San Diego, CA 92109 (Required)
Work Location: In person
