Museum Educator (General Curriculum) - Grand Rapids Public Museum

Posted on 8/4/25

FLSA Status: Hourly, Non-exempt

Hours: Part-time up to 29.0 hrs/week. Some evenings, weekends & holidays are required as needed.

Compensation: $20.53 per hour (with a 0.50 increase after the introductory period and another .50 after one year)

The Grand Rapids Public Museum is the oldest and second-largest museum in Michigan. We are a place of endless learning and discovery, featuring programs and exhibits that focus on history, science, and culture. The employee culture of the GRPM is one of teamwork, excitement, and learning. As an integral part of the West Michigan community, the Museum is open daily to visitors and hosts after-hours public events, programs, private events, and weddings. The entire GRPM team works to create positive visitor experiences through engaging exhibits and programs, as well as a safe, clean, and welcoming space.

SUMMARY:

Museum Educators work to provide high-quality guided education programs for a variety of audiences and visitors, including K-12 classes, families, children, and the general public. Roles include learning and delivering educational lessons, collaboratively developing lessons and activities, and working alongside Museum staff and volunteers to organize and facilitate programming. This position reports directly to the Director of Education.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES including, but not limited to:

• Deliver high-quality education programs to school groups, Museum visitors and the general public.
• Creatively planning, preparing and organizing lesson plans based on established curriculum.
• Implement inquiry-based lesson plans, flexibly adapting strategies for learners across a wide range of ages, abilities and backgrounds.
• Complete scheduled programs and tasks within given deadlines.
• Plan and prepare supplies and program materials and maintain cleanliness and organization of storage and learning spaces.
• Complete reflections and collaborate on program revisions to ensure the continuing efficacy and improvement of educational offerings.
• Collaborate with team members to develop supplementary education materials and activities that incorporate Museum Collections and technologies. 
• Maintaining classroom harmony through the use of interpersonal and conflict resolution skills.
• Capacity to work independently and within teams to accomplish institutional goals.
• Assist the Education department with other tasks, programs and events as assigned or needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

WORKSKILLS:

• Strong people skills; work and communicate diplomatically and courteously with staff, other team members, volunteers, guests, departments, and key stakeholders to meet common objectives and desired outcomes.
• Must be organized, dependable, punctual, and possess a strong work ethic.
• Must have strong interpersonal and conflict-resolution skills.
• Exhibits competency in classroom management skills.
• Using subject matter expertise to educate students and facilitate discussion. 
• Exhibiting a passion for one’s craft by participating in professional development.
• Using public speaking and presentation skills to deliver engaging lessons daily through strong communication and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated expertise in oral presentations and multi-sensory program delivery.
• Passion for educating community members in support of the mission and vision of the GRPM.
• Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor.
• Familiarity with Google Workspace and department software systems.

EXPERIENCE:

• Familiarity with National, State and local education content standards preferred.
• Experience working in a Museum or similar informal learning environment (nature centers, zoos, parks) is preferred.
• Experience leading or participating in inquiry-based learning or other hands-on learning experiences.
• Experience working with Museum collections, including appropriate care and handling of artifacts.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ability to demonstrate critical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Proficient in managing time, work assignments, processes and resources to produce desired outcomes.
• Demonstrate strong written and organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Proven ability to function effectively in a team environment, as well as work independently.
• Ability to work tactfully and effectively and follow oral and written instructions.
• Ability to resolve conflicts and work well with others.
• Ability to be flexible and maintain a positive attitude.
• Ability to operate with confidential sensitive information.
• Demonstrated experience in place-based education, design thinking, and/or material culture studies.
• Experience working with learners of diverse backgrounds and abilities.
• Cultural competency and the ability to work respectfully and positively with all visitors.
• Demonstrated expertise in oral presentations and multi-sensory program delivery.
• Passion for educating community members in support of the mission and vision of the GRPM.
• Capacity to work independently and within teams to accomplish institutional goals.

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Science, Social Studies, ELA, or related field OR coursework towards a degree with related experience with children, and/or any equivalent combination of training and experience.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Must be able to move, bend, stoop, reach, climb, and lift up to 50 pounds.
• The ability to stand, walk, and use stairs for extended periods.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Professional, open-office business and creative setting with friendly public interaction