logo

Employment

The Science Center of Iowa engages and inspires Iowans along their journey of lifelong science learning.

Thank you for your interest in joining our dedicated, enthusiastic staff!

Use the filters below to view full-time, part-time, event, internship and preschool positions. Once you have identified a position to apply for:

For more information, contact scihr@sciowa.org.

Positions

  • Camp Educator

    Classification: Non-Exempt
    Department: Seasonal – Guided Learning
    Reports To: Guided Learning Manager

    Position Overview

    The Camp Educator position is responsible for implementing camp curriculum with exciting, hands-on activities around selected science topics in a fun and safe learning environment.  A focus of this position will be providing daily supervision and mentoring of up to 25 children ranging from 4-14 years old.

    Responsibilities

    To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily, with or without reasonable accommodation, and perform other duties as assigned.

    • Implement activity-based curriculum to facilitate inquiry based learning on a variety of science themes and concepts
    • Present, teach and facilitate hands-on activities in a classroom setting
    • Implement behavior management and time management skills in a classroom setting
    • Create a supply list and daily schedule
    • Follow the daily schedule in a timely manner
    • Prepare, clean and maintain classroom for daily use
    • Engages students and staff in a fun yet mature and professional manner
    • Please note this job description does not contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job; duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice

    Supervisory Responsibility

    This position does not have direct supervisory responsibilities.

    Education, Experience and/or Other Requirements

    Required

    • High School Diploma
    • College coursework in Education or Science related fields
    • General knowledge of, or interest in, science and education
    • Comfortable with public speaking to children, parents, mentors and supervisors
    • Demonstrates excellent communication and problem-solving skills
    • Organized self-starter
    • Ability to work independently while also constructively contributing in a team environment
    • Trustworthy and of high integrity, showing high respect for confidential information
    • Valid Driver’s License
    • Successfully pass a background check

    Preferred

    • Previous experience working with youth and parents
    • Enthusiastic, energetic, hardworking, flexible, creative and timely
    • Ability to acquire a Noncommercial Chauffeur’s License (Class D- Endorsement 3 in Iowa)

    Physical Demands

    While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. This position is primarily focused on time with children and will require prolonged periods of standing and walking throughout the program space. The employee will also need to sit and stand on the floor throughout the day, and bend, kneel, stoop, crawl and crouch to be at eye level with children. The employee may be required to regularly lift and/or move items up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to high.

    Hours & Work Schedule

    Hours will vary based on business needs and may include weekends, some evenings and holidays. Primarily a Monday through Friday schedule.

    To Apply

    Email your resume and completed application materials to scihr@sciowa.org.


  • Assistant Director of Early Childhood Learning

    Classification: Exempt
    Department: Preschool
    Reports To: Director of Early Childhood Learning

    Position Purpose

    The Assistant Director of Early Childhood Learning is foundational in the success of the preschool. Success being that each child, teacher and parent feel a sense of belonging, safety and healthy growth, even though most of the tasks are unseen. The Assistant Director’s presence sets an expectation that SCI is professional and that we care about strong, safe relationships. This position will assist in directing the preschool team to meet the goals of the Science Center of Iowa preschool program and must have supervisory and management skills along with prior teaching and administration background.

    Responsibilities

    To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily, with or without reasonable accommodation, and perform other duties as assigned.

    • Assist with hiring and train, coach and develop preschool associate and part time teachers
    • Track expenses and assist with budget management; address any variances in a timely manner
    • Maintain and manage confidential student files and other confidential information as required
    • Responsible for assisting with the management of the day-to-day operations of the department; maintain an organized and safe working environment
    • Create and manage teachers’ schedules to always ensure appropriate levels of staffing
    • Maintain SCI’s NAEYC requirements for accreditation standards
    • Work with State of Iowa and DMPS to ensure compliance with Universal Pre-K requirements
    • Lead teacher responsibilities
    • Maintain current credentials for preschool staff to operate under specific agency regulations and guidelines such as HHS, NAEYC and DMPS
    • Maintain CPR/1st aid trainer certification and carry out annually training for all SCI staff
    • Lead and provide general guidance to volunteers on a day-to-day basis when they are serving in the same functional area to proactively support creating an effective and engaging experience for all volunteers, team members and participants
    • Meet and greet families and children daily at arrival and departure times
    • Accommodate schedule changes and cover staff when needed (this includes in the classroom and in office)
    • Assist with inter-departmental requests and cooperation when needed
    • Assist in reviewing and approving timecards and time off requests.
    • Maintain and support quality safety, supervision and program components of SCI Preschool
    • Please note this job description does not contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job; duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice

    Supervisory Responsibility

    This position supervises employees in the Preschool department. Supervisory responsibilities include interviewing and hiring, assigning and directing daily work, conducting performance reviews and providing developmental feedback, facilitating conflict resolution and taking corrective action with employees when deemed appropriate based on performance or conduct.

    Education, Experience and/or Other Requirements

    Required

    • Bachelor’s degree in early education or related field
    • Minimum 2 years of management/leadership experience
    • Maintain current First Aid, Universal Precautions, CPR, and Mandatory Reporter credentials
    • Teaching experience in the public school system and/or preschool teaching experience
    • Acquire 10 continuing education hours each year
    • Current in the latest research-based practices regarding the preschool child
    • Strong teaching and instructional coaching skills
    • Has a passion and love for all young children and their families
    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
    • Effective problem-solving skills and strong organizational skills
    • Impeccable judgment and ability to make sound decisions in a fast-paced, dynamic setting
    • Trustworthy and of high integrity, showing high respect for confidential information
    • Pass a physical examination and TB test every two years
    • Successfully pass a background check and DCI fingerprinting

    Preferred

    • Master’s degree and/or relevant experience in Administration

    Physical Demands

    While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. This position is primarily focused on time with children and will require prolonged periods of standing and walking throughout the program space. The employee will also need to sit and stand on the floor throughout the day, and bend, kneel, stoop, crawl and crouch to be at eye level with children. The employee may be required to regularly lift and/or move items up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to high.

    Hours & Work Schedule

    Hours will vary based on business needs and may include days, evenings, weekends and holidays. Primarily a Monday through Friday schedule. Occasional travel may be required.

    To Apply

    Email your resume and completed application materials to scihr@sciowa.org.


  • Facilities Associate

    Classification: Part Time; Non-Exempt
    Department: Building & Grounds
    Reports To: Director of Facilities

    Position Overview

    This position will perform custodial duties to assure the cleanliness and general maintenance of the Science Center of Iowa. Position also performs room setup and tear down as directed for varying events and uses for rentals, special events, meetings and programs.

    Responsibilities

    • Vacuum and shampoo carpeted areas
    • Clean and stock public restrooms
    • Empty trash receptacles
    • Wash windows and other glass surfaces
    • Set up and tear down tables and chairs for meetings, classes and rentals
    • Assist with movement of exhibits as needed
    • Operate commercial floor maintenance machines
    • Other duties as assigned

    Qualifications

    • 2+ years custodial experience
    • Experience with standard maintenance equipment
    • Flexible, proactive and positive attitude
    • Ability to lift 50 lbs.
    • Must be able to be flexible on working hours
    • Background check will be performed
    • References required

    Work Hours

    Part time. Includes weekends and some evening hours. Hours subject to change based on business needs.

    To Apply

    Email your resume and completed application materials to scihr@sciowa.org.


  • Development Manager

    Classification: Full Time, Exempt
    Reports To: Director of Philanthropy
    Department: Development

    Position Purpose

    The Development Manager is responsible for all annual fund and fundraising event activities. This position will work with the Director of Philanthropy to develop the annual fund plan, cultivate existing and new relationships to build operational fundraising, and enhance SCI’s visibility and financial resources for long-term sustainability by coordinating and cultivating gifts from individual, corporate, foundation and community support.

    Responsibilities

    To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily, with or without reasonable accommodation, and perform other duties as assigned.

    • Develop and implement annual fund and special event fundraising plans, with Director of Philanthropy, that support SCI’s strategic and operating plans.
    • Solicit and manage all auction items for SCI’s annual fundraising event.
    • Expand and diversify SCI’s donor base, donor pipeline and work closely with other team members to secure funding that supports the organization’s fundraising goals.
    • Develop and write proposals and solicitations to accomplish department goals and objectives.
    • Accurately process and record donations in the database, ensuring timely and precise gift entry.
    • Prepare and mail donor acknowledgment letters and receipts promptly.
    • Maintain accurate donor records, track giving history, and assist in generating fundraising reports from CRM software.
    • Manage and respond to community donation requests, ensuring alignment with the Science Center of Iowa’s mission and goals.
    • Professionally represent SCI in all contact with donors, volunteers, community, and corporate and foundation representatives.
    • Develop, coordinate and manage specific fundraising events and community engagement events including Mixology.
    • Collaborate with the Director of Marketing and Communications to create and execute a donor stewardship and giving strategy, utilizing social media and other communication tools.
    • Serve as an active participant in the Manager on Duty rotation, assisting with overall operations as needed.
    • Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

    Supervisory Responsibility

    This position has no direct reports.

    Education, Experience and/or Other Requirements

    • A bachelor’s degree in an appropriate field.
    • 2-4 years of experience in fundraising, preferred.
    • Be well-organized, attention to details.
    • Ability to work on multiple projects and projects simultaneously and to meet established deadlines.
    • Deep, passionate commitment to the Science Center’s mission and the ability to communicate its objectives enthusiastically to potential donors.
    • Customer focus – ability to engage donors, staff, volunteers, and community constituents.
    • Interpersonal savvy and ability to establish relationships with integrity and trust.
    • Persuasion skills.
    • Political savvy in working with donors, funders, community leaders and volunteers.
    • Ability to work independently and collaborate.
    • Effective problem-solving and decision-making skills.
    • Communicate effectively (particularly written, but also spoken and presentation)
    • Manage ambiguity and be flexible in responding to the needs of a fast-moving, dynamic and complex department.
    • Proficient with computer software with preference to Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and donor database management.

    Physical Demands

    While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. This position requires prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer but is occasionally active and requires standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, crawling, and climbing. The employee must regularly lift and/or move items up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

    Hours & Work Schedule

    Hours will vary based on business needs and will include days, evenings, weekends and holidays. A Monday-Friday schedule is typical, with standard hours of 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

    To Apply

    Email your resume and completed application materials to scihr@sciowa.org.


  • Preschool Assistant Teacher

    Classification: Non-Exempt
    Department: Preschool
    Reports To: Director of Early Childhood

    Position Overview

    The Preschool Assistant is responsible for assisting with the implementation of the Science Center of Iowa Preschool program and other SCI early childhood programs. 

    Responsibilities

    To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily, with or without reasonable accommodation, and perform other duties as assigned.

    • Greet all customers in a professional, friendly, and timely manner, including answering phones drop in visits and directing inquiries
    • Assist with maintaining SCI’s NAEYC accreditation standards including uploading digital files into the accreditation system
    • Teach and direct classroom activities when assigned
    • Prepare, clean and maintain classrooms and office space for daily use
    • Maintain appropriate levels of supplies and timely placement of orders
    • Basic office duties such as data entry and organize, file and maintain documents or records
    • Attend and assist with parent/preschooler special events during the school year
    • Manage and organize supplies and teaching materials
    • Follow all policies and procedures of the Science Center and the Preschool
    • Assist with oversight of children to ensure they are safe and engaged in the programming
    • Actively participate on various internal and/or cross-functional teams as needed in furtherance of SCI’s goals and objectives
    • Plan and carry out other EC programs and activities with in SCI as assigned
    • Please note this job description does not contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job; duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice

    Supervisory Responsibility

    This position does not have direct supervisory responsibilities.

    Education, Experience and/or Other Requirements

    Required

    • Maintain current First Aid, Universal Precautions, CPR, and Mandatory Reporter credentials
    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
    • Has a passion and love for all young children and their families
    • Possesses character qualities such as patience, creativity, flexibility, joyfulness and endurance
    • Ability to work independently while also constructively contributing in a team environment
    • Trustworthy and of high integrity, showing high respect for confidential information
    • Pass a physical examination and TB test every 2 years
    • Successfully pass a background check and DCI fingerprinting

    Preferred

    • Clerical and office experience
    • Para associate I and II or CDA or AA in Early Childhood

    Physical Demands

    While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. This position is primarily focused on time with children and will require prolonged periods of standing and walking throughout the program space. The employee will also need to sit and stand on the floor throughout the day, and bend, kneel, stoop, crawl and crouch to be at eye level with children. The employee may be required to regularly lift and/or move items up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to high.

    Hours & Work Schedule

    Hours will vary based on business needs and may include days, evenings, weekends and holidays. Primarily Monday through Friday schedule. Typically, no travel will be required.

    Compensation

    This position will be eligible for a $1,000 sign on bonus after the first 60 days.

    To Apply

    Email your resume and completed application materials to scihr@sciowa.org.


  • 1
  • 2