Sally Ride Science Instructor

The Sally Ride Science offers science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) workshops for students in 3rd-12th grades. During these workshops, students assume the roles of space explorer, ocean engineer, computer scientist, and more as they immerse themselves in hands-on projects. Top-notch STEAM instructors lead these workshops, serving as both teachers and role models. The workshops also incorporate real-life stories of vibrant women conducting research in each field. Their examples inspire students and help make STEAM careers more accessible.

Instructs students and facilitates their learning in accordance with Sally Ride Science policies and guidelines. Guides students in educational activities designed to promote intellectual, social, and physical growth. Teaches the essential skills that will contribute to students’ development as educated and responsible adults.

A reasonable estimate of compensation for teaching one section of this course is $750-$2,000. The amount determined within the compensation range is dependent upon course modality, units of instruction, and number of enrollments. Instructional agreements are made on a section-by-section basis at the discretion of the University with no guarantee to teach future sections of this course or any other courses.

Specific Duties

• Delivers STEAM-oriented instruction (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) through Project-Based Learning methods while using subject-matter expertise to impart knowledge to students
• Design syllabus and curriculum as assigned
• Update materials periodically, and regularly monitor course evaluations in order to make adjustments and improvements to the curriculum
• Teaches Sally Ride Science-approved curriculum while creating a classroom environment that is conducive to learning and is appropriate to the maturity and interests of the students
• Meets and instructs assigned classes in the locations and at the times designated
• Employs a variety of instructional techniques, instructional media, and performance assessments, which guide the learning process toward academic achievement and curriculum goals
• Establishes clear objectives for all lessons, curricular units, and projects and communicates these objectives to the students
• Recognizes the special needs of students with learning disabilities, seeks assistance as needed and/or required, and makes appropriate individualized physical and instructional accommodations within the classroom
• Participates in professional growth and development and stays abreast of current research through continuing education, educational seminars, workshops, conferences, membership in professional organizations of the subject taught, and attendance at Sally Ride Science sponsored in-services
• Teaches students to work collaboratively to solve problems and to think logically and creatively
• Design interactive and motivational activities to fully engage students and to reinforce student learning
• Respond to student needs and questions
• Create a high-performance environment in which students of diverse backgrounds are motivated to succeed
• Apply technology and leverage resources appropriately to enhance the curriculum (e.g. use Blackboard or make arrangements for guest speakers)
• Handle mechanics of position according to deadlines (LOAs, texts, A/V, grade submission, etc.)
• Communicate with Program Manager and Instructor Services Team on a timely basis
• Completes other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• Advanced degree from an accredited institution is preferred; in exceptional cases an equivalent combination of education in progress and work experience may be accepted
• Current knowledge of and demonstrated proficiency in subject area
• Current participation in industry-related professional associations
• Highly effective oral and written communication skills, including the ability to convey conceptual and complex ideas and information
• Highly effective interpersonal skills
• Experience designing curriculum and measuring student performance preferred
• Experience working with K-12 students preferred

Special Conditions of Employment

Duties may require direct contact and/or supervision of children (defined as individuals under the age of 18); completion of the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA) form will be required.

As an academic department within UC San Diego, all Extension Program instructors and courses must be formally approved according to the regulations of the Academic Senate of the University of California. Eligibility to teach a course is contingent upon this formal academic approval. Once approved, teaching assignments are "by agreement". The instructor's Letter of Agreement outlines the deliverables for the course, the course schedule, and compensation terms, and is subject to department policies and procedures. UC San Diego Extension makes no commitment to hire an instructor until it has sent and received a signed instructor Letter of Agreement. Should the course section an instructor plans to teach be canceled for any reason, the instructor agreement, including rights to compensation for future section meetings, is voided. Remuneration is for classroom hours only and does not include time spent for course preparation or other events.

• Job may require CPR certification, tuberculosis (TB) certificate of clearance, and background checks.

Application Requirements

Please complete all relevant fields in the application, and optionally attach additional documents to provide further information relating to your professional and teaching backgrounds. Even if you upload a resume, cover letter, and/or additional documentation, you must answer all of the questions in the application, when applicable. Failure to do so may result in the rejection of your application.

In addition to meeting all of the above mentioned requirements, you will be required to schedule and attend a Human Resources onboarding meeting during which you will be required to complete a Live Scan background check

Please note: We receive and review applications for instructors on an ongoing basis. If we do not currently have teaching opportunities available, we may keep your application on file and contact you if an opportunity that matches your specific skills becomes available. UC San Diego Extension operates on a quarterly schedule and course planning typically takes place six weeks to six months in advance of the start of any quarter.

UC San Diego is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values a diverse workforce.