Science Educator, Professional Learning

BSCS Science Learning is developing professional learning programs for the Next Generation Science Standards that incorporate culturally sustaining, equitable, and inclusive approaches to teaching and learning. We have an immediate opening for one or two science educators to contribute to this work. We seek a motivated, creative individual who shares our mission of improving science teaching and learning through research-driven innovation. Applicants should have expertise in the design, development, and facilitation of professional learning experiences for teachers grounded in the Next Generation Science Standards.

BSCS Science Learning is an independent, nonprofit organization that develops, studies, and disseminates powerful approaches to science education. Our mission is to improve science teaching and learning through research-driven innovation. Founded in 1958, BSCS has brought the experience of inquiry learning to millions of students and teachers across the U.S. and around the world. Today, BSCS conducts research, develops instructional materials for elementary and secondary education, offers professional learning programs for teachers, and conducts leadership development programs for schools and districts. Underlying all this work is our continued commitment to providing all young people with equitable, inclusive, and just science learning opportunities.

The Science Educator(s) we seek to hire will play a central role in the development and implementation of multiple professional learning programs. In this role, they will work closely with other BSCS staff, classroom teachers, independent contractors, and external partners. They will be responsible for facilitating professional learning models that we have adopted for these programs.  This will include developing plans for enacting the professional learning programs, writing facilitator materials, and leading professional learning sessions with teachers. This role may include participating as a team member in the design process, identifying and using appropriate science resources that will support teacher professional learning (e.g., data, images, videos, simulations), writing PD leader-facing, teacher-facing, and student-facing text, and assisting in the production process to finalize the materials. The work of the Science Educator may also include revising or developing new instructional materials.

Minimum Requirements:

●      Teaching experience at the K-12 level and/or substantial experience in K-12 research and development;

●      Understanding of three-dimensional, phenomenon/problem-driven science teaching and learning as called for by the National Research Council’s Framework for K-12 Science Education and the Next Generation Science Standards;

●      Understanding of the science content and science teaching (pedagogical content knowledge) in the disciplinary core ideas called for by the Next Generation Science Standards at the middle school level. 

●      Experience designing, developing, and facilitating professional learning experiences for K-12 teachers of science;

●      Ability to manage complex work and achieve specified goals under time and resource constraints;

●      Ability to collaborate effectively in diverse groups across a variety of contexts;

Any of the following are desirable:

●      Understanding of the science content and science teaching (pedagogical content knowledge) in the disciplinary core ideas called for by the Next Generation Science Standards at the elementary school level or across one or more disciplines at the high school level. 

The following are required to function effectively in this position:

●    A commitment to improving science education;

●    A commitment to equity and social justice in education;

●    Strong internal motivation; and

●    Flexibility and openness.

 

Salary range: The full-time, annual salary range for this position is $75-90,000, depending on experience and qualifications.

 

We are open to either local or remote work arrangements for this position. Preference will be given to applicants who live in the Colorado Springs region or are willing to relocate here.

 

This position requires regular public speaking and air travel.

 

BSCS is committed to advancing science learning that is inclusive, meaningful, and advances the work of social and environmental justice. To learn more, visit https://bscs.org/our-work/equity-social-justice/

 

BSCS Science Learning is committed to the recruitment of a diverse staff so that we can bring the broadest possible range of perspectives to our mission of improving science teaching and learning for a diverse audience. We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, sex, color, religion, national origin, disability (physical and/or mental), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, military obligations, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any status protected by federal, state, or local law.

 

BSCS offers competitive compensation and a generous package of benefits, as well as a flexible and inclusive work environment, with a strong commitment to the professional growth of all staff. We offer a benefits package including paid time off, medical and dental insurance, and a retirement plan.

 

As a nonprofit research and development organization, BSCS’s work is funded through a combination of government and foundation grants, service contracts from school districts and other education-focused institutions, licensing revenue, and charitable donations.

 

BSCS’s offices are in Colorado Springs, ranked #4 in US News & World Report’s 2020 Best Places to Live. Located along the Front Range of the Rockies one hour south of Denver, Colorado Springs is known for a mild climate, a vibrant arts community, and year-round outdoor recreation.

 

For additional information about BSCS and our work, prospective applicants are encouraged to review the BSCS web site (www.bscs.org).

 

Applicants should send the following items to careers@bscs.org. Please put “Science Educator, Professional Learning” in the subject line.

2.     Educational Statement (1-2 pages) that describes (1) relevant prior experiences in professional learning and teaching; (2) your views about teaching and learning in science education and how they have been shaped by your educational, personal, and/or professional experiences.

 

We will begin reviewing applications on December 10, 2021 and will continue to accept and review applications until the position(s) is/are filled.