Employment

ABOUT THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM GROUP

Founded in 1927, The Children’s Museum Group (TCMG) is located in West Hartford, Connecticut and includes The Children’s Museum, The Children’s Museum Preschool, and Roaring Brook Nature Center. TCMG serves as a pioneering nonprofit institution dedicated to inspiring lifelong, experiential learning and innovation for children, adults, and communities that support them. Listed as the nation’s fifth oldest children’s museum, its mission is to foster creative thinking and ongoing education through hands-on science and nature experiences. TCMG offers interactive demonstrations, workshops, exhibits, the wildlife sanctuary, and special events, engaging participants in stimulating, multi-sensory learning. 

Roaring Brook Nature Center, located in nearby Canton, was integrated into TCMG since 1973 and now enriches the visitor’s experience through animal and environmental exhibits, nature programs, and outdoor activities. Situated on 165 acres adjacent to a state wildlife refuge, Roaring Brook Nature Center serves as an outdoor classroom, featuring trails, gardens, and wildlife habitats. TCMG Preschool, incorporated into the West Hartford campus, uniquely combines science experiences into early childhood education. Educational initiatives extend to schools statewide, providing innovative inquiry-based science learning techniques and teacher training programs. 

After 65 years in West Hartford Center, TCMG moved to its temporary location at Emanuel Synagogue, where it remains a vital community asset, fostering curiosity, confidence, and innovation in participants. This commitment to education extends well beyond the museum walls, exemplified by its mobile programs that bring interactive science and nature programming, including live animals, to schools and communities across Connecticut. 

---

Posted 02/27/2025

STEAM Educator – Full-Time

Museum STEAM Educators are responsible for delivering highly engaging, interactive and scientifically accurate programs to Pre-K through Middle School students alongside their teachers, parents and caregivers in a variety of formal classroom and informal community settings. Educators deliver programming both onsite within the museum as well as within schools, libraries, and community centers throughout Connecticut and into neighboring Massachusetts, New York, and Rhode Island.  Programs occur in both small group settings with interactive hands-on instruction and large auditorium-style demonstration programs.  Educators are responsible for aiding in the design and prototyping of new curriculum and workshops for the Education Department. 

Essential Functions:

• Develop, test, and train co-educators in STEAM curricula for Pre-K through Middle School. Curricula may be standalone programs, build upon each other over multiple engagements, or be part of large festival-style events for children and their caregivers, covering various STEAM topics.
• Assist in writing and documenting curricula and supplementary educational materials.
• Travel to schools and community locations to present outreach programs.
• Teach STEAM programs onsite at the preschool and as outreach at other preschools.
• Deliver STEAM programs in afterschool, weekend, and summer settings.
• Engage museum visitors through both formal programming and informal learning opportunities.
• Maintain, clean, and inventory equipment and supplies.
• Support the Education, Visitor Services, and Exhibits teams.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Essential Skills:

• Dynamic educator able to present engaging, age-appropriate content to diverse audiences.
• Ability to deliver educational experiences in an entertaining and engaging manner.
• Strong communication skills for working with children and adults in both small groups and large settings.
• Ability to manage participant behavior and ensure safety in program settings.
• Excellent project management skills and the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Ability to juggle multiple projects and tasks to completion.
• Solid knowledge of science and engineering concepts, with a willingness to learn.
• Creative and innovative curriculum developer.
• Experience designing and fabricating STEAM demonstration models.
• Ability to maintain and perform minor maintenance on program equipment.
• Experience handling and presenting live animals during programs (or willingness to learn).
• Positive attitude when interacting with customers and co-workers.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs. of educational equipment and navigate stairs and outdoor environments.
• Must be flexible to work evenings and weekends based on the program schedule.

Qualifications:

• College degree or equivalent work experience in education, science, engineering, or technology.
• Preference for candidates with a strong understanding of physics, chemistry, and engineering concepts. Experience in museums or related institutions is a plus.
• Proven experience teaching and working with youth.
• Valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and regular access to a reliable, insured vehicle for offsite travel.

This is a full-time position (40 hours per week, non-exempt) with insurance and PTO benefits available.

Salary range: $18/hr to $21/hr, depending on experience and qualifications.

Reports to the Director of Education and collaborates with staff at the West Hartford Museum, Preschool, and Canton Nature Center locations.

Interested candidates should send all of the following materials for consideration:

Resume, cover letter, salary expectations and three references.

Email: HR@thechildrensmuseumct.org

Mail:
Human Resources Coordinator
The Children’s Museum
180 Mohegan Drive
West Hartford, CT 06117

(No phone calls please)

---

Posted 02/26/2025

Seasonal Educators- Summer 2025

Multiple Seasonal Educator positions are currently available at our West Hartford and Canton, CT locations. The length of the position and required hours will differ depending on the specific role and site. All seasonal educator applicants should have a minimum of two years of college-level studies or relevant experience in; physics, chemistry, earth science, agriculture/horticulture, environmental or biological sciences, science education, or elementary education. Experience engaging children in informal learning environments is expected along with strong communication skills. Applicants must be willing to commit to the duration of the position as stated in the descriptions below. All applicants must successfully pass a background check.

Seasonal STEAM Educators – West Hartford Campus

Description:

Seasonal STEAM Educators will work alongside our Year-Round Education Team to prepare and deliver hands-on STEAM-focused education programs at schools, libraries, camps, and other community locations throughout Connecticut. Specific roles may include working with under-resourced families through our “Bringing STEAM to the Neighborhoods” initiative, providing daily STEAM enrichment programming for summer school students, and presenting outreach programs from our large program catalogue. Educators will be trained on current Museum curriculum and be able to collaborate on the development of new informal science curricula and hands-on activities utilizing the Museum’s unique educational resources including live animals, robots, and other scientific equipment. Educators will work closely with the Education Team to create and deliver age-appropriate, positive learning experiences designed to meet the Museum’s mission of inspiring lifelong learning among children and their caregivers.

Essential Skills and Functions:

• Must be a dynamic presenter who can comfortably present effective, age-appropriate, and engaging lessons to diverse audiences.
• Must demonstrate the ability to manage participant behavior, mediate minor conflicts, and prioritize safety in group settings.
• Must demonstrate a solid understanding of early childhood through middle school level of STEAM subjects and topics including but not limited to: physics, chemistry, earth science, biology, engineering, math, technology, art, astronomy, and environmental science.
• Expected to maintain and inventory equipment and supplies used in programming.
• Must have experience or willingness to learn how to handle and present with live animals during presentations.
• Must project a positive attitude with both customers and co-workers.
• Must be able to lift 40 pounds of education equipment into and out of vehicles and within assigned teaching spaces. Access to teaching spaces will require the ability to bring equipment and supplies up and down stairs and be outdoors.
• Travels to schools and other community locations to present outreach programs at their site.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Candidates should have a minimum of two years of college-level studies or career experience in; physics, chemistry, earth science, agriculture/horticulture, environmental or biological sciences, science education, or elementary education.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and clean driving record. Access to a reliable and insured vehicle is required for offsite travel.
• This position is considered seasonal at approximately 40 hours per week and will fall between early June and mid to late August. Only applicants with consistent availability during this time will be considered for this role.

Salary range: $16.50/hr to $18/hr dependent on experience and prior demonstrated successes.

This position reports to the Director of Education and works collaboratively with staff at the Museum in West Hartford.

Lead Teachers – Roaring Brook Nature Center, Canton

Description:

Lead Teachers will work with the Roaring Brook Nature Center team to create, implement and evaluate one-week, hands-on, place-based curriculum designed to connect children with the natural world. With the help of all of the Nature Center’s resources including miles of trails and live animals, Lead Teachers will lead a full morning of programming, blending education and recreation in the out of doors. Lead Teachers will work closely with an Assistant Teacher to supervise and ensure the safety of all participants while creating a fun, engaging, and memorable summer experience. Lead Teachers will take a lead role in planning, teaching, and evaluating each program week with the help of an Assistant Teacher.

Essential Skills and Functions:

• Must be a dynamic presenter who can comfortably present effective, age-appropriate, and engaging lessons to diverse audiences.
• Must be a creative, innovative educator with experience developing engaging outdoor curricula on a variety of nature-based topics.
• Must demonstrate a solid understanding of early childhood through middle school level of STEAM subjects and topics including but not limited to: biological, geological, environmental, and physical sciences.
• Must demonstrate the ability to manage participant behavior, mediate minor conflicts, and prioritize safety in program settings.
• Must have experience or willingness to learn how to handle and present with live animals during presentations.
• Must project a positive attitude with both customers and co-workers.
• Must be able to carry heavy loads of up to 30 pounds, hike uneven terrain, and be comfortable working outside during summer months in all kinds of weather.
• Knowledgeable about local flora and fauna and comfortable in nature.
• Observant, caring, reliable, and friendly.
• Patient and enjoys working with children.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Candidates should have a minimum of two years of college-level studies or relevant experience in; earth science, agriculture/horticulture, environmental or biological sciences, science education, or elementary education.
• Experience working in camp, youth programs, recreation, out-of-school settings, or in a related field with children.
• First Aid Certification and Epi-Pen Trained (Preferred)
• This position is considered seasonal at approximately 25 hours per week and will fall between mid-June and mid to late August. Program runs Monday through Friday from 9 AM – 12 PM. Teacher hours are 8 AM- 1 PM. Note: July 4th week is a four-day, Monday-Thursday week. Only applicants with consistent availability during this time will be considered for this role.

Salary range: $16.50/hr to $18/hr dependent on experience and prior demonstrated successes.

This position reports to the Roaring Brook Nature Center Full Time Co-Director and works collaboratively with staff at the Nature Center in Canton.

Assistant Teachers – Roaring Brook Nature Center, Canton

Description:

Assistant Teachers will work with the Roaring Brook Nature Center team to create and implement hands-on, place-based curriculum designed to connect children with the natural world. Using all of the Nature Center’s resources including miles of trails and live animals, Assistant Teachers will help lead a full morning of programming, blending education and recreation in the out of doors. Assistant Teachers will work closely with a Lead Teacher to supervise and ensure the safety of all participants while creating a fun, engaging, and memorable summer experience. Assistant Teachers will take an active role in planning, teaching, and evaluating each program week with the help of a Lead Teacher.

Essential Skills and Functions:

• Must be a dynamic presenter who can comfortably present effective, age-appropriate, and engaging lessons to diverse audiences.
• Must be a creative, innovative educator with experience developing engaging outdoor curricula on a variety of nature-based topics.
• Must demonstrate a solid understanding of early childhood through middle school level of STEAM subjects and topics including but not limited to: biological, geological, environmental, and physical sciences.
• Must demonstrate the ability to manage participant behavior, mediate minor conflicts, and prioritize safety in program settings.
• Must have experience or willingness to learn how to handle and present with live animals during presentations.
• Must project a positive attitude with both customers and co-workers.
• Must be able to carry heavy loads of up to 20 pounds, hike uneven terrain, and be comfortable working outside during summer months in all kinds of weather.
• Knowledgeable about local flora and fauna and comfortable in nature.
• Observant, caring, reliable, and friendly.
• Patient and enjoys working with children.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Candidates should have a minimum of a high school diploma and prior experience in; earth science, agriculture/horticulture, environmental or biological sciences, science education, or elementary education.
• Experience working in camp, youth programs, recreation, out-of-school settings, or in a related field with children is a plus.
• First Aid Certification and Epi-Pen Trained (Preferred)
• This position is considered seasonal at approximately 25 hours per week and will fall between mid-June and mid to late August. Program runs Monday through Friday from 9 AM – 12 PM. Teacher hours are 8 AM- 1 PM. Note: July 4th week is a four-day, Monday-Thursday week. Only applicants with consistent availability during this time will be considered for this role.

Salary: $16.50/hr

This position reports to the Roaring Brook Nature Center Full Time Co-Director and works collaboratively with staff at the Canton Nature Center.

To Apply:

Please send a resume and a cover letter, detailing your preferred position, and site, and identify any limitations to availability.

Email: HR@thechildrensmuseumct.org

Mail:
Human Resources Coordinator
The Children’s Museum
180 Mohegan Drive
West Hartford, CT 06117

(No phone calls please)

---

Posted 01/28/2025

Visitor Services Associate – Part-Time

As a customer support team member, you will have the opportunity to welcome and educate children and their caregivers through exploratory opportunities. You will admit our guests and guide diverse learners through exhibit exploration and engaging experiences. As a friendly and supportive Customer Service representative, you provide the first contact with our guests both in person and by phone. As a dynamic and energetic facilitator, you will make each child and family experience one that is informative, rewarding, and fun.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Facilitate the process of admitting children and their caregivers into the museum and successfully address customer service needs as they arise.
• Process admission, membership, and gift shop merchandise sales into a computer-based ticketing system, Blackbaud Altru.  Accurately handle cash and credit card transactions and maintain cash controls in the registers.
• Proactively identify opportunities for membership, program registration, and event ticketing, in-person, by phone, and through electronic communications.
• Facilitate hands-on learning, for families and children, in the Museum’s exhibits and programming spaces.
• Prepare and maintain exhibit manipulatives and materials for museum exploration and program delivery.
• Assist in disinfecting, cleaning, and maintaining general public and exhibit spaces.
• Other duties as needed to provide administrative and program preparation support for multiple departments.

Qualifications:

• Previous experience with young children (ages 3-12) in either formal education settings, informal education settings, museums, childcare, or recreational settings.
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to adapt to the use of new technology and programs.
• Must possess the ability to present a consistent friendly and courteous demeanor with guests.
• Ability to be flexible and assimilate feedback from colleagues and participants.
• Demonstrated ability to successfully work independently as well as collaborating with others.
• Background checks must demonstrate that employees are appropriately qualified to engage with children and families in a public setting.
• Programs require the movement and transportation of equipment and supplies. Must be physically able to safely bend, stretch and lift up to 30lbs. Working within children’s exhibits often requires the need to work while sitting on the floor or bending to floor level.
• Holiday and school vacation periods are generally our busiest time for family visitation to the museum. The ability to maintain shifts during these periods is required.

Additional Preferred Experience:

• Visual or performing arts experience is helpful.
• Customer service and cash handling experience.
• Experience with CRM and POS systems is helpful.
• Early Childhood Education experience is helpful. Preference is given to those individuals who are successfully listed with cleared background checks in the OEC Registry with the State of CT and are willing to occasionally assist in our preschool classrooms on occasion.
• Experience working with a diverse group of learners, including children who have special needs.

Availability: Must be available for the following shifts on a regular weekly basis.

• Wednesday 9 am-4 pm, Thursday 9 am-4 pm, and Sunday 9:30 am-4:30 pm

Rate of Pay: $16.35/hour

Worksite location: The Children’s Museum, 180 Mohegan Drive, West Hartford CT 06117

Position is Part-time at 19-24 hours per week and is non-exempt.

To Apply:

• Stop by in person to complete an application, Wednesday–Friday from 10 am–4 pm or Sunday from 10 am–4 pm at The Children’s Museum, 180 Mohegan Drive, West Hartford, CT 06117.
• Or, Send your resume and cover letter for consideration to:

Email: HR@thechildrensmuseumct.org

Mail:
Human Resources Coordinator
The Children’s Museum
180 Mohegan Drive
West Hartford, CT 06117

(No phone calls please)

---