JOB DESCRIPTION

Summary/Objective:

The Act 89 STEAM Specialist will serve as a dynamic ambassador for the Bucks IU and Act 89 STEAM programs, fostering student-centered, hands-on STEAM learning experiences. This role requires expertise in computer science and digital fabrication, including coding, robotics, 3D printing, CNC machining, and laser cutting/engraving. The educator will facilitate engaging lessons for both the Mobile Fab Lab and Fab Lab Center, ensuring the safe and effective use of all equipment while collaborating with schools to enhance their instructional programs. Additionally, they will contribute to program development, maintain lab resources, and support the Bucks IU STEAM team in advancing innovative educational opportunities.

Essential Functions:

· Serve as a positive ambassador of the Bucks IU and Act 89 STEAM Programs.

· Possess a student-centered approach to STEAM teaching and learning.

· Possess expertise in computer science and digital fabrication, especially as they relate to K-12 students. This includes (but is not limited to) coding and robotics, 3D printing, CNC machining, and laser cutting/engraving.

· Work collaboratively with the Bucks IU STEAM team.

· Perform other duties as assigned.

Mobile Fab Lab Functions:

· Plan, facilitate, and evaluate Mobile Fab Lab residencies, including facilitating innovative lessons for students.

· Possess and maintain an exemplary driving record and be able to drive Mobile Fab Lab (transit van) to and from schools.

• Maintain the safety and working condition of all Mobile Fab Lab materials, tools, and equipment including hardware and software.
• Ensure safe use of all materials and technology housed within the Mobile Fab Lab.
• · Communicate effectively with schools as Mobile Fab Lab residencies are scheduled, planned, and implemented.
• Serve as strategic partner to support schools’ instructional program before and after a Mobile Fab Lab residency.
• Collaborate with Bucks IU supervisor and colleagues to effectively communicate the Bucks IU’s vision and mission of the Mobile Fab Lab to all stakeholders.
• · Evaluate and reflect upon professional practices, emerging technologies, and current research to support the success of the Mobile Fab Lab.
• · Work collaboratively with all colleagues to ensure the success of the Mobile Fab Lab.

Fab Lab Center Functions:

· Plan, facilitate, and evaluate Fab Lab student programs, including but not limited to school field trips.

· Contribute to the growth of the Fab Lab Center by researching and developing innovative ideas for programming.

· Effectively engage and manage students in an out-of-school environment.

· Ensure the maintenance, cleanliness, and organization of the Fab Lab Center.

Competencies

· Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions; Works well in-group problem solving situations; Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.

· Technical Skills - Assesses own strengths and weaknesses; Pursues training and development opportunities; Strives to continuously build knowledge and skills; Shares expertise with others.

· Interpersonal Skills - Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming; Maintains confidentiality; Listens to others without interrupting; Keeps emotions under control; Remains open to others' ideas and tries new things.

· Oral Communication - Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; Listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Demonstrates group presentation skills; Participates in meetings.

· Written Communication - Writes clearly and informatively; Edits work for spelling and grammar; Varies writing style to meet needs; Presents numerical data effectively; Able to read and interpret written information.

Supervisory Responsibility : None.

Work Environment: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

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

While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to sit and use hands. The employee is frequently required to walk; reach with hands and arms and talk or hear. The employee may be required to stand for long periods, and to climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work: This is a full-time position. Days of work are Monday through Friday. Days are dependent on the needs of the program, and summer hours may be required. Occasional evening and/or weekend work may be required as job duties demand.

Travel: Occasional local or regional travel to client locations and/or overnight travel for professional learning.

Education and Experience:

· PA Level I or Level II Elementary or STEAM Content-Area Certification is required.

· Knowledge of STEAM Education is required.

· Experience teaching and/or supervising digital fabrication, engineering, robotics, and/ or STEAM topics is required.

Work Authorization/Security Clearance (if applicable): Citizenship or work authorization to work in the United States required

EEO/AA/VEVRAA Employer:

The Bucks IU is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive culture. Bucks IU does not discriminate on the basis of disability, veteran status or any other basis protected under federal, state or local laws.