Program Manager, STEM Center, District 13

About NYC FIRST 

NYC FIRST is building out a new STEM-based civic infrastructure that broadens resources, delivers opportunity and sets young people on pathways to success academically and professionally.  This vision is centered on a network of STEM Centers, which centralize valuable resources, including computing and software, fabrication equipment, and expert and experienced staff and mentors.  For over 20 years, NYC FIRST has inspired and empowered K-12 students from diverse communities across New York City each year to engage with STEM and robotics in meaningful and joyful ways.  We create learning experiences that encourage young people to think critically and creatively and to persevere, driving towards excellence and equity.

STEM Center Details 

Located in downtown Brooklyn's One Clinton, a new mixed-use building near Cadman Plaza West, the STEM Center in District 13 occupies nearly 7,000 square feet. It neighbors a large Brooklyn Public Library branch and features two classrooms, a commons area, a wood/metal shop, and several small offices. NYC FIRST is partnering with School District 13 leadership to deliver STEM programming to K-12 students, with a particular focus on 4th and 6th graders.

Program Manager Responsibilities

This role will help lead the creation of a vibrant community of STEM and youth development experts, novices and enthusiasts to advance educational pursuits.  Specifically, the Manager, STEM Center, District 13 will be responsible for:

• Collaborate closely with District 13 leadership, plus a range of other partners, to create and implement engaging STEM education programs for students and teachers, including a range of STEM-centric classes, activities and workshops, with an emphasis on STEM education and LEGO-based robotics (FIRST LEGO League) for elementary and middle school students and their teachers
• Work closely with the STEM Center Senior Manager to help ensure safe day-to-day operations, while supervising volunteers, interns, and staff; setting up and maintaining fabrication equipment; communicating with NYC FIRST staff in other locations; ordering supplies; and interacting with teachers, students and parents on a daily basis.
• Work closely with District 13 leadership, teachers, principals and parents to identify and provide educator training needs, mentorship and guidance to teachers, and create programs for students that align with district and school goals.
• On occasion, conduct site visits and outreach at D13 schools.
• Teach, guide and mentor participants on group and individual projects, fostering a creative, problem-solving and growth mindset.
• Ensure adherence to and update safety protocols to ensure impeccable safety standards are met at all times.  Train students, adults and staff on the safe use of fabrication machines and tools.
• Ensure the highest safety and youth protection standards; create a positive youth development environment in which young people and their families feel welcome and comfortable in the space.
• Work closely with the STEM Center team to help schedule, plan, prepare and run classes, activities, workshops and outreach.
• In collaboration with the D13 STEM Center team, create and teach new lessons as needed; share those activities with others.
• As needed and under the direction of the STEM Center Manager, participate in evaluation and research activities.
• Additional duties as required. 

Required Qualifications 

Applicants for this position should meet the following qualifications:

• At least four (4) years of project management or instruction experience, preferably in a STEM, youth development or K-12 education setting; managing and implementing multiple concurrent projects and staff members.
• At least two (2) years of people management experience, supervising small teams of full-time and part-time staff and interns. 
• Demonstrable experience working with young people, using a positive youth development lens; strong desire and ability to create a welcoming, supportive, and safe educational environment for young people of all ages and adults. 
• Ability to build strong working relationships with constituents and represent NYC FIRST internally and externally at meetings and community gatherings.
• Enthusiasm for STEM education (including robotics) or related fields, with demonstrable experience. Experience in (or strong interest in) robotics, design & fabrication, programming, and circuitry.
• Strong customer service orientation, with a problem-solving approach.
• Experience collecting and reporting on data.
• Demonstrated commitment to NYC FIRST’s mission, STEM education, access and equity.
• Desire to train young people to work with adults on STEM skill development.
• Experience with LEGO robotics or FIRST LEGO League a plus

Additional Information:

• This is a Full-time, in-person role at the STEM Center during operating hours (Monday-Friday, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM).
• Legal authorization to work in the United States is required.

Additional Qualifications

In addition to the required qualifications, the ideal candidate will possess the following:

• Desire and ability to learn new STEM skills and LEGO robotics, including participating in training within the first 3 months of employment.
• Proven youth development experience, with a focus on creating positive learning environments that support student growth and learning.
• A growth mindset and fosters strong relationships with colleagues and stakeholders.
• Adapts well to a fast-paced, startup-like environment requiring flexibility, self-motivation, independent work, and sound judgment.
• Knowledge of FIRST robotics.
• Demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion through continuous development, modeling inclusive behaviors and proactively managing bias.

Compensation

We offer a competitive salary of $75,000-$80,000 per year, commensurate with experience.  Additionally, NYC FIRST provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k) retirement plan; four weeks of paid vacation time per year; paid federal holidays.

NYC FIRST provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k) retirement plan; four weeks of paid vacation time per year; paid federal holidays.

Please send a thoughtful cover letter and resume to careers@nycfirst.org with the subject line Manager, STEM Center - D13.  No phone calls please.

NYC FIRST is an equal opportunity employer.  We invite people of all backgrounds to apply.  We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran or military status.