Innovation Lab Teacher (STEM / Makerspace)

Job Summary

We are seeking a passionate and forward-thinking Innovation Lab Teacher to design and facilitate a dynamic, hands-on learning environment. In this role, you will introduce students to the cutting-edge worlds of Artificial Intelligence, physical computing, and robotics. You will guide students through the engineering design process using tools such as Python, microcontrollers (Arduino), single-board computers (Raspberry Pi), and LEGO robotics platforms (SPIKE Prime).

The ideal candidate is not just a lecturer, but a "guide on the side" who champions Project-Based Learning (PBL), fostering creativity, critical thinking, and resilience. You will empower students to become creators of technology, not just consumers.

Key Responsibilities

Curriculum Development & Instruction (60%)

• Design, implement, and continuously refine an engaging curriculum for the Innovation Lab that integrates Project-Based Learning (PBL) methodologies.
• Teach fundamental and intermediate coding concepts using Python to develop student proficiency in text-based programming.
• Facilitate hands-on building and coding projects utilizing LEGO SPIKE (Prime or Essential) to introduce robotics and engineering principles to younger or novice learners.
• Instruct students on physical computing by creating interactive prototypes with Arduino (sensors, LEDs, motors) and Raspberry Pi.
• Introduce age-appropriate concepts of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (e.g., training simple models, understanding ethical implications, computer vision) and how they integrate with hardware.
• Develop cross-disciplinary projects that connect STEM concepts to art, social studies, and core subjects.

Lab & Makerspace Management (20%)

• Manage the daily operations of the Innovation Lab, ensuring a safe, organized, and inspiring environment.
• Maintain, troubleshoot, and inventory all equipment, including computers, robotics kits, electronics components, and 3D printers.
• Source and organize materials for student projects, managing the lab budget in coordination with administration.

Student Engagement & Assessment (15%)

• Foster a classroom culture that embraces "fail-forward" moments, encouraging experimentation and iteration.
• Assess student progress through portfolios, project demonstrations, presentations, and reflective journals rather than traditional testing.
• Coach and mentor students participating in extracurricular clubs, robotics competitions (e.g., FIRST LEGO League), or coding challenges.

Professional Collaboration (5%)

• Collaborate with classroom teachers to integrate Innovation Lab projects into their existing curriculum (e.g., helping a History class build interactive timelines with Raspberry Pi).
• Stay current with emerging technologies in the CS/STEM field and share best practices with staff during professional development sessions.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Education (with STEM focus), or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum [2-3] years of teaching or facilitation experience in a formal or informal educational setting (e.g., classroom, museum, after-school program).
• Demonstrated experience working with the specified technology stack.

Technical Proficiency

• Python: Strong working knowledge of Python syntax, data types, loops, functions, and libraries. Experience teaching Python to beginners.
• Arduino: Proficiency in C/C++ for Arduino, understanding of basic circuits, breadboarding, and common components (ultrasonic sensors, servos, etc.).
• Raspberry Pi: Experience setting up Pi environments (Raspberry Pi OS), utilizing GPIO pins, and integrating Pi into standalone projects.
• LEGO SPIKE: Familiarity with the SPIKE Prime/Essential platform, including the icon-block and word-block (Python-based) coding environments.
• AI Literacy: Ability to explain core AI concepts (like training data and models) in a hands-on, accessible way (e.g., using Google’s Teachable Machine or similar tools).

Pedagogical Skills

• Deep understanding of Project-Based Learning (PBL) frameworks (e.g., from the Buck Institute for Education).
• Strong classroom management skills in a "controlled chaos" makerspace environment.
• Ability to differentiate instruction for students with varying skill levels (from novice to advanced).

Preferred Attributes

• The Tinkerer: You have personal side projects involving Raspberry Pis or Arduinos.
• The Facilitator: You are comfortable not knowing all the answers and exploring solutions alongside students.
• The Innovator: You are excited by new technology and quick to assess its educational potential.

Job Type: Full-time