Physics Phenomena Facilitator

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Position Title: Volunteer Physics Phenomena Facilitator
Department: Museum Education

Reports To: Turbine Hall Educators
Location: Physics Lab at OMSI

POSITION SUMMARY: Volunteers in the OMSI Physics Lab support museum guests'
exploration of a variety of physics phenomena, from light and sound waves to magnets
and hair-raising experiences with electricity! Volunteers should have enthusiasm for
experimentation and passion for presenting hands-on learning activities in a safe manner
to further engage museum guests in the amazing interactions that happen in the world.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
● Ask open-ended questions, co-investigate, and use other facilitation techniques to
help promote inquiry and encourage museum guests to engage with physics
phenomena
● Present various interactive physics demonstrations to an audience of diverse
backgrounds and ages (demonstration examples include the dancing water bowl,
vacuum chamber, Van de Graaf generator, and more; training provided)
● Assist in maintaining lab exhibits and activities, including refilling activity supplies
and tidying exhibits
● Maintain a safe, secure, and inviting environment for museum guests and staff
● Assist staff with other duties as needed

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:
● Excited about physics and committed to sharing accurate scientific information
● Eager to facilitate guest-centered experiences
● Able and interested in listening and communicating with people of diverse
backgrounds and age levels
● Able to maintain a calm, pleasant, and cheerful demeanor in a variety of
atmospheres
● Self-directed and willing to take initiative
● Dependable, punctual, communicative, and able to commit to a regular schedule
● Willing to follow OMSI rules and procedures

SCHEDULE AND SUPPORT:
● Commitment to a 4 hour shift on a weekly or biweekly schedule (either morning or
afternoon).
● Attend the following trainings or classes provided by OMSI:
○ Volunteer Orientation & Emergency Protocols
○ Mandatory Reporter Training
○ Hazardous Communication Training

VOLUNTEER BENEFITS:
● Training opportunities and a lifelong learning experience
● Admission for the volunteer to the museum exhibits and attractions based on
availability
● An OMSI Family Membership upon completion of 50 hours of volunteer service
● Discounts in the OMSI Science Store and onsite eateries
● The opportunity to connect with new people and learn more about OMSI