Science Quest STEM Instructor

Project Overview
Science Quest is a student-led initiative under Queen's University's Engineering Society, committed to providing accessible and inclusive STEM education to youth across the Kingston area through summer camps and workshops. Established in 1988 with a focus on inspiring young girls to pursue science and engineering, Science Quest has since broadened its mission to foster a love of STEM for all youth, regardless of cultural, social, or linguistic barriers. Through Science Quest's summer camps, youth ages 4-13 engage in hands-on activities and interactive demonstrations that build scientific literacy, spark creativity, and promote collaboration.

Science Quest camps offer a variety of programming options, including camps focused on robotics, engineering, technology, and coding. Each week-long camp is designed to be fun and interactive, encouraging young campers to explore scientific concepts and experiment in a supportive environment. The program values inclusivity and community outreach, with additional partnerships established with local organizations, such as the Boys and Girls Club, Girls Inc., and the Kingston Military Family Resource Centre, as well as initiatives aimed at Indigenous communities.
As an integral part of this program, the Science Quest Summer STEM Instructors create memorable, hands-on experiences for campers while helping to ensure a safe, engaging, and well-coordinated camp environment. Working closely with Curriculum Coordinators, the Head Director, and parents, Summer STEM instructors play a vital role in carrying out Science Quest's mission to make STEM education both accessible and inspiring.

Duties and Responsibilities
The Science Quest Summer STEM Instructor serves as the primary leader and guide for campers, acting as the "heart and soul" of camp programming. Instructors will facilitate the hands-on activities developed by Curriculum Coordinators and create a welcoming and supportive environment for all campers. This role is ideal for personable, enthusiastic students who are comfortable working directly with children and are dedicated to promoting an inclusive, engaging camp experience. The work term for this position is June 2025 - August 2025. During this time, you would be expected to commit to working 35 or more hours per week. The pay for this position is $18.20 per hour. Key responsibilities include:

1. Activity Delivery and Supervision: Instructors lead campers through various STEM activities, ensuring each session is engaging, informative, and accessible. They are responsible for supervising campers, managing group dynamics, and maintaining an atmosphere that fosters learning and curiosity. Daily routines include setting up activity stations, guiding campers through demonstrations, and providing clear, age-appropriate instructions for each task.
2. Testing and Collaboration: Instructors will collaborate with Curriculum Coordinators during pre-camp training to test and refine activities, identifying areas where activities could be optimized for engagement and age-appropriate complexity. This collaborative approach ensures that instructors can offer feedback on activities, fostering a shared commitment to quality programming. During this process, instructors become familiar with all equipment and materials they will use during the camp season.
3. Camper Engagement and Inclusivity: A key aspect of the role is building positive relationships with campers, ensuring each child feels included and excited to participate. Instructors are expected to be attentive to campers' individual needs, including sensory preferences or potential behavioral concerns, and adapt activities to accommodate diverse learning styles. Training in behavior management, anti-oppression, and special needs/inclusion ensures instructors are well-prepared to create an inclusive environment for all campers.
4. Parent Communication: Instructors interact with parents and guardians daily, sharing highlights of the day's activities, addressing any concerns, and providing updates on camper progress. Effective communication and customer service skills are essential in building trust and a positive reputation for the program. Instructors may also participate in parent information sessions, answering questions about Science Quest and its programs.
5. Safety and Risk Awareness: Ensuring a safe environment is a top priority, and instructors are expected to follow safety guidelines provided by Science Quest, the federal/provincial government, and Queen's Risk and Safety Services. With comprehensive training in First Aid, CPR-C, and basic risk management, instructors will be prepared to respond effectively in the event of minor injuries or incidents. Instructors will also be briefed on how to handle specific safety considerations, such as potential allergic reactions and safely guiding children through activities involving lab materials or technology.

Qualifications and Skills
The ideal candidate for this position will possess the following qualifications and skills:

1. Interpersonal and Communication Skills: Instructors should have a natural ability to connect with children, providing guidance with patience, enthusiasm, and a friendly demeanor. Clear, concise communication is essential, as instructors will explain scientific concepts to young audiences in an understandable and engaging way. Experience working with children is preferred but not required.
2. Enthusiasm for STEM: A genuine interest in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics is important, as instructors will demonstrate hands-on activities that cover various STEM fields. An understanding of basic STEM concepts will be useful in leading activities and answering camper questions confidently.
3. Adaptability and Problem-Solving: In a fast-paced camp environment, flexibility and quick thinking are essential. Instructors must be able to adapt activities on the spot, manage changes in group dynamics, and make decisions that prioritize camper enjoyment and safety. Problem-solving skills are particularly helpful when handling equipment or navigating unexpected camper needs.
4. Commitment to Inclusivity and Accessibility: Science Quest prioritizes an inclusive, barrier-free environment, so instructors should be committed to making activities accessible to all campers. This includes adjusting activities for campers with unique learning needs and fostering an atmosphere of respect and inclusion.

If you have any questions about the position, you can contact the Head Director, Emre Karaman, at their email address: sciencequest@ engsoc.queensu.ca.

The deadline to apply for this position is May 18th 23:59 pm. Interviews will be held between May 19th to 30th.