Science Center Program Assistant

Job Description

The Needham Public Schools is seeking candidates of diverse backgrounds and experiences for Science Center (SC) Program Assistant. Under the direction of the Science Center Director, and School Principal, SC Program Assistant will perform accounting/organizational and clerical work related to the maintenance of the science center.  The SC Program Assistant works in the Science Center at the Newman Elementary School. 

Needham Public School District is an inclusive, dynamic, and multicultural community seeking an energetic, skilled, and warm educator to join our team. Diverse candidates, especially those from historically marginalized and silenced groups such as educators of color, are highly encouraged to apply

Essential Functions and Duties of the Position:  The essential functions and duties listed below are intended as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed.  The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position

• Assess the need for program supplies and provide information to the school bookkeeper to request science center purchases 
• Create and maintain department filing systems both hard copy and digital systems using Google Suite
• Assist the director in organizing, planning, and communicating information to staff, teachers, and families, using a variety of formats including social media
• Schedule field trips, classroom usage, animal care, communicating schedule with department staff and teachers
• Provide general clerical and secretarial support such as copying, filing, responding to inquiries, data entry, and email
• Greet visitors, answer phones, take messages, and forward calls to appropriate personnel
• Manage kit distribution schedule as well as distribution of other science center resources for teachers

This is a 1.0. FTE 11-month position. Please review the Unit D Contract and this page to learn more about employee compensation and benefits. 

All applicants are encouraged to view the working conditions and benefits as articulated in the Unit D contract which can be found on our website.

Skills, Abilities & Knowledge:

Ability to maintain a positive work environment and demonstrate strong interpersonal skills -   

• Organizational skills
• Knowledge and experience with school technology, websites, and various platforms
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Ability to work independently while managing many tasks simultaneously
• Ability to interact calmly and professionally with teachers, co-workers, students, and visitors
• can maintain confidentiality and handle difficult situations with sensitivity 
• Must be able to lift  and/or move 40 lbs

Qualification Profile

• Any combination of education and experience providing the required skill and knowledge for successful performance would be qualifying.  Typical qualifications would be equivalent to:
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Associate degree with coursework in any of the following is preferred: business, math, word processing, office procedures, and record-keeping 
• Prior clerical experience preferred

The Needham Public School System is a member of METCO, Developing Equity and Achievement for Students (IDEAS), and the Greater Boston School Human Resources Network.  Candidates who have a strong commitment to active anti-racism are encouraged to apply.

The Needham Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, active military/veteran status, ancestry, genetic information, or national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, employment policies, and other administered programs and activities. In addition, students who are homeless or of limited English-speaking ability are protected from discrimination in accessing the course of study and other opportunities available through the schools.

Needham Public Schools has a strong commitment to equity. Candidates who also have a strong commitment to this work are encouraged to apply. For more information on our equity work please visit our equity website.