USC Wrigley Institute for Environmental Studies
Education Program Specialist

Edison Challenge Program

Job Duties:

Under the supervision of the Director of Education, the Edison Challenge Education Program Specialist, working with the Edison Challenge Team, will coordinate and implement all components of the Edison Challenge program, including a competition for middle and high school teams and professional development workshops for teachers. The Edison Challenge Program Specialist will be responsible for developing content, lesson plans, and teaching the teacher professional development workshops. Working with the Edison Challenge Team, the Program Specialist will implement and coordinate marketing efforts to schools, teachers, informal education partners and community groups; manage all applications and registrations, maintain communication with participating teams/teachers, organize judging of competition; planning and coordinating other Edison Challenge events and planning and leading field expeditions to the Sierras and Catalina Island. The Program Specialist as a member of the Edison Challenge Team will also coordinate efforts with managers of other Wrigley Institute education programs such as the Center for Ocean Science Education Excellence and QuikSCience.

Other duties at the Wrigley Institute will also include:

• Teach and assist with summer science programs at the Wrigley Marine Science Center on Catalina Island.
• Assist in the implementation of other Wrigley Institute education programs as needed.
• Assist in the development of marine science activities and lesson plans for K-12 teachers.
• Assist in the development of content for use on the Wrigley Institute educational websites.
• Conduct literature searches as needed on various marine science topics for the purpose of developing educational material.
• Represent the Wrigley Institute at education conferences or meetings, which may include giving presentations or coordinating displays.
• Work with other Wrigley Institute staff to develop outside funding proposals for education projects.

Qualifications:

Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in a physical (preferred) or other natural science discipline is required; Master’s degree is preferred. Must have a sound understanding of basic physical (and environmental) science principles and content as well as science education standards. At least 3 years experience teaching physical (or environmental) science in a formal or informal setting, and experience working with K-12 teachers. Should be able to demonstrate proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Word, Excel and PowerPoint (File maker pro is a plus). Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential (applicants may be asked to submit a writing sample), as is the ability to follow instructions and complete assignments in a timely fashion. The successful candidate will have strong content knowledge and teaching skills regarding physical and environmental science, especially in regards to sustainable energy topics. Additionally, the successful candidate will demonstrate both leadership and team-working abilities, excel in a collaborative working environment, be self-motivated, and be able to initiate and implement programs as needed with minimal supervision. Applicants should be willing to work some nights and weekends, and spend extended periods of time (2-3 weeks) on Catalina Island, particularly during summer months. Knowledge of local marine life and habitats is desirable but not required.

Other Requirements:

Driving throughout the greater Los Angeles/Orange Counties using own car (mileage is reimbursed); Some bending and lifting; Some nights and weekend work is required; Moderate to extensive walking or other physical activity, such as snorkeling or kayaking, may be required.

This is a grant-funded, full-time position. Annual salary range is $37,000 to $43,000 commensurate with experience.

How to Apply:

Candidate must apply via USC online application process http://www.usc.edu/jobs
Job Requisition ID 25698
In addition, send cover letter, names and contact information for 3 professional references, and resume via email or post to:

Lynn Whitley
Director of Education
Wrigley Institute for Environmental Studies
AHF 410
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, California 90089-0371
lwhitley@usc.edu