Specialist, Special Projects Interpretive Science

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Specialist, Special Projects Interpretive Science

TELUS Spark Science Centre

Deadline to apply: January 16, 2025

TELUS Spark Science Centre (Spark), a registered educational charity, exists to entertain and inspire people of all ages through creative encounters with science, engineering, technology, math and art. Spark exists to lift people up with the power of curiosity through creative encounters with science! 

Calgary’s science centre is a pioneer in science entertainment and programming, with roots dating back to 1967. Home to one of Western Canada’s largest dome theatre, the Digital Immersion Gallery, VR experiences, and innovative spaces like Steven’s Lab, where interactive experiments unfold before your eyes. From the robot-dog Flint to Canada’s first robot-coa5ter, R05iE, and a 15-acre park surrounding the science of the developing brain, Spark is a hub for creative encounters.

About Steven

Dr. Steven Keating was a Design Engineer at Apple who graduated from Queen’s University in 2010 with dual degrees in Mechanical and Materials Engineering and Film and Media. Steven went on to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to earn his Master’s and PhD degrees, where he specialized in additive manufacturing and large-scale 3D printing. He inspired millions with his research-driven approach to cancer and his advocacy for open patient health data. He died from brain cancer in July 2019 at the age of 31. Steven grew up in Calgary, where curiosity was a driving force in his life. He spent a large portion of his childhood tinkering and building devices. He loved nature and the outdoors, photography and engineering. He had an infectious kindness and curiosity that elevated those around him, and he loved exploring simply for the joy and thrill of learning. Steven’s Lab will bring this spirit to life so that millions more can be inspired by his unbounded world of possibility. Read the MIT tribute to Steven here.

Position Overview

­­The specialist for Live Science Connections special projects is a full-time position that reports directly to the manager, interpretive science connections and plays a lead role in coordinating two key projects in the Live Science Connections portfolio. The first key project is that of Steven’s Lab, a space for deeper learning in Open Studio. This role is responsible for the planning, execution, and reporting of public programming in Steven’s Lab.  A second key project is that this role is responsible is Spark’s BLUprint program, where the trades are incorporated into STEM focused public programming. For this project the Specialist, Live Science Connections will for assisting with the planning, execution, and reporting of BLUprint. This role may also include program development and delivery in other areas of the Live Science Connections portfolio, including science interpretation, program development for the Creative Kids Museum, and special event science experiences.

This position requires a well-rounded, and a positive person with a passion for STEM. This role requires strong coordination skills, attention to detail, ability to manage projects, and a knack for inspiring people. They will have an eagerness to learn, contribute ideas, meet deadlines, and grow professionally as part of a high performing team.

This position requires evening and weekend availability.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist with the planning, coordination and execution of year-round programs of hands-on learning to operate out of Steven’s Lab and BLUprint.
  • Establish and implement systems to continually assess and upgrade the experience for visitors in all areas.
  • Develop long-term, value-added relationships with partners locally, regionally, nationally and internationally.
  • Build strong relationships with other employees, specifically the Live Science Team, to help infuse a culture of unfettered creative problem-solving across the organization.
  • Model high performance, flexibility and kindness in a rapidly changing growth environment.
  • Maintain a flexible schedule including weekend and evening hours.

Qualifications and Knowledge:

  • Three or more years of experience in any of the following: education, interpretation or creative program design.
  • Experience creating and delivering public programming and learning opportunities.
  • A proven track record of adding exceptional value in a team environment.
  • An understanding of the challenges associated with operating and maintaining a high-volume learning environment, including working with children.
  • Experience in a lab setting, including lab safety.
  • A proven track record of achieving ambitious goals and engaging others in these projects with an infectious enthusiasm.
  • Familiarity with and high level of respect for risk analysis and safety protocols.
  • A self-starter with strong analytical skills.
  • Desire to work on a high performing team with a continuous upgrading culture to achieve high impact results.
  • A growth mindset and a positive attitude!
  • A high degree of creativity with the ability to leave your ego at the door.

Hourly Rate: $25 per hour

Closing Date: January 16, 2025

For more information and to apply visit Specialist, Special Projects Interpretive Science Connections.

We thank all applicants for their interest.  Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women, people of colour, and persons with disabilities are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At Spark, we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace so if you are excited about this role please apply! An excitement and passion for science can go a long way here so you may be just the right candidate for this or other roles at Spark.

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