ChallENGe Lab Lead

Reporting to the Hands-on Experience Manager, the Challenge Lab Lead is an energetic, professional individual with a passion for delivering high-quality, STEAM-based programs to audiences of all ages. These programs will primarily take place in-person in the Museum’s onsite maker/engineering/technology space, Challenge Lab. The educator will work with the Hands-on Experience Manager and the rest of the Challenge Lab team to develop original and engaging maker-based programming and execute them for a variety of ages and skill levels. The Challenge Lab Lead will assist in training employees and volunteers in maker-based programming and teaching engagement techniques as well as equipment best practices. They will prepare order lists, maintain equipment and ensure that the Challenge Lab is adequately supplied to run efficiently. The lead is responsible for ensuring that the Perot Museum maker-based programs are innovative, engaging, fun and at the forefront of STEAM education in the Metroplex.  

• Execute and develop Challenge Lab curriculum and programming.

• Assess program supply inventory and provide material lists for Challenge Lab.

• Create procedures and protocols (manual and operating checklist) to properly run and maintain the Challenge Lab and its programs, in addition to periodic training of staff and volunteers.

• Ensure that Challenge Lab equipment is maintained and in proper working order.

• In collaboration with the hands-on experience manager and other team members, continue to shape the look, layout and feel of the Challenge Lab to best suit the Museum’s vision and for optimal visitor engagement.

• Continually research new trends in maker-related education programs, equipment and other technologies to keep the Challenge Lab relevant and a leader in STEAM-oriented learning.

• Network with other institutions with similar makerspace and/or engineering/tech-related programs, both local and nationally.

• Serve as liaison to Volunteer department in scheduling and training volunteers for Challenge Lab needs, such as special events, supply preparation and more.

• Assist with safety, program and presentation training for volunteers and staff.

• Responsible for the operations of other guest engagements including supply prep, set-up, clean-up, and implementation.

• Keep accurate records of program attendance, equipment, purchasing and supply inventories.

• Maintain program processes, safety, and procedures to ensure high quality programming and efficient operations.

• Assist in cross-department workload to accomplish all short and long-term institutional program goals.

• Must be available to work weekend and evening hours.

• Other duties as assigned.

• Completion of or in the process of completing a Bachelor of Arts or Science degree.

• Experience with and a passion for engaging youth in educational programs. 

• Familiarity with makerspace related tools, technologies and software a plus.

• Individual must be highly organized and detail-oriented.

• Outstanding interpersonal skills, positive attitude, collaborative spirit and ability to interface at all levels.

• Excellent presentation and communication skills, both written and oral.

• Must be highly self-motivated, organized, flexible, and innovative.

• Punctual and professional with a commitment to promoting Museum values and mission.

• Bilingual in Spanish preferred.

The physical demands described in this job description are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to:
  • Remain calm and poised in assisting in all guest services-related matters.
  • Stand for up to 5 hours at a time.
  • Use hands to touch, handle, or feel.
  • Reach with hands and arms.
  • Talk and hear.
• While performing the essential functions of this job, the employee is frequently required to:
  • Walk.
• While performing the essential functions of this job, the employee must occasionally:
  • Lift and/or move up to 40 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus.

NOTE: This position is a mandated reporter role under the Museum’s policies and procedures.