Coordinator, 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.

Coordinator Responsibilities

This role is part of the inaugural team launching the new STEM Center in District 13. It will foster a vibrant community that brings together STEM experts, novices, and enthusiasts.

Specifically, the Coordinator, STEM Center - District 13 will be responsible for:

• Teach, guide and mentor participants as they work on their own projects; foster a creative, problem-solving mindset in students.
• Teach students how to program and use design software and safely use fabrication equipment as needed.
• Support class instruction, field trips, and workshops, as needed.
• Support FIRST LEGO League programs and teams.
• Communicate with staff on site needs, inter-departmental support, etc.
• Collaborate and communicate with partners, including schools, districts and other community-based organizations.
• Coordinate and help facilitate professional development for teachers.
• Lead ongoing purchasing of required equipment and materials for the STEM Center.
• Assist with the routine maintenance of the STEM Center overall, as well as a focus on the maintenance of STEM Center equipment. 
• Contribute to NYC FIRST social media efforts, including the creation of digital content.
• Help recruit and oversee volunteers.
• Manage participant and group registrations.

Required Qualifications 

Applicants for this position should meet the following qualifications:

• High school diploma, equivalent, or higher degree required.
• At least one year (1) of education or youth development experience is required.
• Experience and enthusiasm in STEM and/or robotics education.
• Excellent verbal communication skills and the ability to create rapport with children, families, teachers and other community members.
• Ability to maintain safety and youth protection standards of NYC FIRST.

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:

• Natural collaborator, eager to learn from experienced STEM Center leaders.
• Comfortable working in a startup-like environment that requires a high level of self-motivation, independence, and judgment in decision-making.
• Use of the Google Suite including: Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides and Calendar.
• Use of the Adobe Suite, including Illustrator and Photoshop, and Autodesk programs a plus.
• Experience with FIRST robotics programs, specifically FIRST Lego League (FLL) and FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC).
• Commitment to NYC FIRST’s mission, STEM education, and to diversity, equity and inclusion through continuous development, modeling inclusive behaviors and proactively managing bias.
• Spanish, Haitian-Creole, or Arabic language fluency a plus.
• Knowledge of Canva/basic graphic design skills a plus.