Informal Science Education Intern-Works Theater, Physical Science

This is a temporary position expected to run from May to August. 

The Works Theater, located on the fourth floor, is one of three science demonstration theaters at Carnegie Science Center. The Works Theater provides a unique opportunity to explore the ins and outs of the various areas of science, from molecules and our states of matter to the movement of electrons to create electricity. Interns will participate in all the behind-the-scenes facets of the Theater and its staging areas, as well as the Chem Lab. Interns will assist staff with smooth and safe delivery of programming. Interns will also be expected to review current theater programming, and lead and advise the development and creation process of and new theater experiences.

This is not an "in-lab" internship, but chemistry lab work is important to working with chemicals used in demonstrations. This internship will help to improve presentation skills, research skills, and more. This internship is great for those interested in Physical Science, chemistry ambassadorship, and public education. Those who are interested in pursuing a career in teaching will gain valuable experience to further their pursuit of that goal.

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE: Enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate, or trades educational program. Open to all majors; Chemistry, Education, Physics or similar track of study is preferred. Lab experience a plus, but not required.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:

• Maintain a high level of customer service to the standards of CSC

Interact with visitors and other staff

Work independently

Interact with guests from around the world, of different ages and science skills

Comfortable working with chemicals and advising others on chemical safety and demos

Willingness to learn and communicate scientific information to guests of all ages

Reliable, punctual, and dependable

Genuine personal interest in science and education

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Intern must be able to move about the Science Center to present programming. Accommodations available for interns who cannot stand to present programming.

employment training: Interns will observe and shadow performances and operations of the theater. Interns will be given scripts, science content background reading, policies, and procedures. Trainings are on-going and structured dependent on the needs of the Intern. Interns will be evaluated ongoing and upon completion of internship.

TIME COMMITMENT: 120 hours to be completed during the summer and/or semester. Minimum of 10 hours per week with regular weekly commitment required.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

Part One: Project (On going)

1. To make sure that CSC guests are receiving the most cutting edge science information, interns will work with the Demonstration Theaters team on revisions to new as well as on going theater programming.
2. Project may include: updating existing theater shows and additional programming, new floor demo, content development, or a research project for potential special programming. Projects will be based on current Demonstration Theater needs.

Part Two: Theater Operations

1. Greet and seat visitors in a friendly manner
2. Interact with visitors in a manner appropriate to the theater atmosphere
3. Gain familiarity with all behind the scenes Works Theater components
4. Assisting staff with the smooth and safe delivery of programming
5. Answer basic questions about the Carnegie Science Center and the Works Theater
6. Assist staff with prep and cleanup for each scheduled show which includes, but is not limited to, working with computer tech, various chemicals, and demonstration equipment
7. Direct questions to other staff when needed
8. Operate basic equipment that includes but not limited to Van de Graft generator, liquid nitrogen tank and Dewar, and a full-size Tesla coil, following successful completion of proper safety and operations training
9. Assist with making announcements
10. Responsible for all materials in Volunteer Handbook and Demonstration Theaters Team manual: (ex. Safety and call off procedures, visitor interaction protocols.)

Part Three: Presenting Demonstrations

1. Create and research demonstrations involving science areas of chemistry and Physical Science.
2. Learn and independently present formal demonstrations as necessary
3. Care and maintenance of props and equipment
4. Assist with training on demonstrations
5. Assist with informal presenting of various demos on gallery floors
6. Other duties as assigned

The following PA Act 153 clearances, or proof of application of clearances, are required beginning employment and as a condition of continued employment: Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check FBI Fingerprint Criminal Background Check Obtaining the required clearances is completed as part of the new hire process.
Carnegie Museums is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action Employer - Minorities / Females / Veterans / Individuals with Disabilities / Sexual Orientation / Gender Identity
The above job description reflects the essential functions and qualifications for the position identified, and shall not be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be inherent in the position. The job description does not constitute an employment contract and does not alter the at-will relationship between CMP and the employee.   
*GUIDANCE ON ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:   The Americans with Disabilities Act ("ADA") requires employers to consider and accommodate qualified individuals with disabilities.  An individual is qualified if he or she can perform the essential functions of a job with or without reasonable accommodation. An essential job function is any task that is a fundamental part of the job.  When considering essentiality, one must focus upon whether the function is essential to this particular job and not to the department as a whole. Some additional guidance on essential functions follows below.  Please note that the following guidelines are non-exhaustive.  If you have any questions or need additional guidance, please contact Human Resources. A. Is the function required to be performed on a regular basis? If the function is rarely performed, it may not be essential. B. Is the function highly specialized? Is the incumbent hired for his/her expertise or ability to perform the function?  The need for special expertise is an indication of an essential function. C. Does the position exist, at least in part, to perform the function?  If so, the function is more likely to be essential. D. How much time is spent performing the function and how often?  Note that even functions performed 10% of the time could be essential if they are required on a regular basis. E. Would elimination of the function fundamentally alter the job?  If so, the function is more likely to be essential. F. What are the consequences of not requiring the incumbent to perform the function? If they are significant, the function is more likely to be essential.  G. Are there a limited number of employees among whom the performance of the function could be distributed if the incumbent could not perform it?  If so, it is more likely to be essential.