Tuesday, October 1, 2013

K-12 Initiatives Coordinator at the University of Maine

K-12 Initiatives Coordinator for the Maine Physical Sciences Partnership
Maine Center for Research in STEM Education
The University of Maine
Orono, Maine

The Maine Center for Research in STEM Education (RiSE) at the University of Maine invites applications for the position of K-12 Initiatives Coordinator for the Maine Physical Sciences Partnership, an innovative, multi-million dollar, research and development effort funded by the National Science Foundation for five years.† The Maine Physical Sciences Partnership (MainePSP) brings together University of Maine faculty, staff and students, 20 Maine school district and growing, and Maine non-profits involved in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education to target the improvement of teaching and learning of physical sciences in grades 6-9 and the recruitment, preparation and retention of science and mathematics teachers.† More information about the Maine Physical Sciences Partnership can be found at www.umaine.edu/mainepsp/.

Responsibilities of the K-12 Initiatives Coordinator include co-designing, co-planning and coordinating the professional development programs for the K-12 component of the Maine Physical Sciences Partnership (MainePSP).† The K-12 Initiatives Coordinator will also assist with preparing sections of reports and other communications related to these programs.† Supervision of student workers and management of timelines and schedules are also part of the K-12 Initiatives Coordinatorís responsibilities.

The successful candidate must have a BS or BA in a science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) discipline or in STEM education, or equivalent, have demonstrated effectiveness as a science teacher in the middle or high school grades, and have experience in planning and leading professional development for teachers, undergraduates, and/or graduate students. Evidence of in-depth understanding of physical sciences concepts taught in standards-based middle and high school grades is also required.† Exceptionally strong organizational abilities and written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills are essential. Preference will be given to those who show familiarity with discipline-based education research and guided inquiry instruction in science.††

This full-time professional position is contingent on continued funding and successful job performance.† The job is performed primarily in an office setting, although some visits to schools may be required (mileage reimbursed). Expectations are for a normal 40-hour work week, although the employee will be expected to work during MainePSP events, including some nights and weekends.† He/she will work in a team-based environment, collaborating with MainePSP faculty, other staff members, teachers and school-based professionals, and university students.† The job responsibilities are fairly predictable, although there might be some situations or deadlines that require working outside of the normal workday.† A link to the full job description can be found at http://umaine.edu/center/positions/professional-positions/.

To apply, please submit electronically a letter of application and resume of educational background and professional experience, including the names and contact information of three references, to PSPK12ic.Search@umit.maine.edu. Questions about this position should be directed to erika.allison@maine.edu.† Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until a suitable pool of applicants is found.† Appropriate background checks will be required.
Salary Range: $40,000 - $45,000
The University of Maine is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.