Entry Level, Full Time Materials Specialist and Instructor for STEM programs

Big Learning Science & Engineering is looking for an entry level (or 1-3 years' experience) for this full-time position as a Materials Specialist in our Wheaton, Maryland office who will teach Middle School programs up to four afternoons per week at schools in Montgomery County.

Big Learning is a nonprofit dedicated to equity and the idea that all children need access to high quality enrichment programs regardless of ability to pay.

As Materials Specialist, you will organize and manage our inventory of science materials and supplies and oversee the packing of kits for our elementary S&E after-school programs; recruit and direct student volunteers; and liaise with instructors to provide the materials they need.

As a Lead Science & Engineering Teacher you will guide middle school students through Big Learning S&E's hands-on program called Gadget Factory and/or Lego Robotics program. The S&E program is offered as part of Montgomery County's Excel Beyond the Bell Middle School program and will deliver programming for up to 20 students per afternoon at one of eight county middle schools (note: 2 instructors for 20 students). EBB is designed to engage students in out of school time enrichment opportunities that are hands-on, experiential and fun and provide a safe environment for youth after school.

Responsibilities:
• Organize and sort kit material for all program sessions, outreach events, and manage materials inventory.
• Work with the Director to manage materials purchasing and returns; with attention to budget and specific program needs.
• Create Expense reports and track purchases to turn into accounting.
• Maintain relationships with vendors/suppliers to procure and ensure availability of material resources;
• Research, create or edit print materials as needed.
• Manage program materials distribution and returns.
• Work closely with Kit Packing Specialist(s) and team of student/adult volunteers to ensure that all materials kits contain appropriate materials.
• Work closely with the Director to ensure that material needs are being met.
• Ensure that all classroom and teaching materials are available and ready for teachers; respond to materials requests.
• Serve as lead teacher for the program, which takes place from approximately 3:30pm-5:30pm.
• Attend paid trainings, meetings, and organization events as needed. Attend evening events up to 8 times per year.
• Deliver STEM programming to up to 20 middle school youth per afternoon using best practices of STEM instruction while addressing the social-emotional needs of students.
• Develop lesson plans and document hands-on curriculum, materials, and worksheets for all program classes; utilizing resources from previous year's programs.
• Provide support and appropriate training for assistant teachers; and serve as a resource for both educational and operational matters.
• Manage, document, and report program expenses with oversight from Big Learning supervisor and contribute to grant reporting requirements.

Qualifications:
• Bachelor's degree required
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Power Point), Google sheets, and Acrobat.
• Strong internet research skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills both in person and by phone, with a high-level of professionalism
• Takes initiative; quick to learn new skills and tasks
• Ability to monitor and adhere to tight deadlines
• Strong prioritization and multi-tasking skills
• Highly motivated with ability to work within a small team and take on tasks as assigned
• Solid work ethic; highly accountable
• High expectations for quality
• Ability to work independently and accomplish projects with little supervision
• Passionate about working with middle school students.
• Must have some prior experience working with youth.
• Commitment to delivering high quality enrichment programs.
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs to waist level and 20 lbs overhead.
• Must have a reliable vehicle for transportation and to bring classroom supplies to and from each class.
• As a condition of employment with Big Learning, any successful job applicant will be required to pass a criminal background check and provide proof of full vaccination for COVID19.

Desirable Qualifications:
• Bilingual in English and Spanish, French, Amharic, or Mandarin Chinese is a plus
• Science background a plus
• Prior experience in nonprofit is a plus
• Experience working in an afterschool enrichment program is a plus

Salary Range: $47,000 to $50,000 depending on experience and qualifications plus mileage stipend for MS program. Participation in TIAA retirement plan available.

Big Learning is an equal opportunity employer.