About the Company
The University of South Florida (USF) is a high-impact global research university dedicated to student success and recognized for its innovation and commitment to social mobility. Our Natural History & Public Engagement Division is at the forefront of preserving, studying, and interpreting ancient life, engaging both the academic community and the general public through compelling educational programs and meticulously maintained collections. We are committed to fostering a dynamic environment where discovery meets community outreach.
Job Description
We are seeking a passionate and knowledgeable Ancient Life Specialist with a strong focus on education and curation. This role is crucial for interpreting our extensive paleontological and archaeological collections, developing engaging educational programs for diverse audiences, and ensuring the preservation and accessibility of invaluable specimens. The successful candidate will contribute significantly to both our internal research efforts and our public outreach initiatives, bringing the wonders of ancient life to learners of all ages.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and evaluate educational programs and workshops related to ancient life for K-12 students, university students, and the general public.
- Curate and manage paleontological and archaeological collections, including specimen preparation, cataloging, storage, and conservation.
- Conduct guided tours, presentations, and interactive sessions within the museum, at schools, and community events.
- Assist researchers and students with access to collections for study, ensuring proper handling and documentation.
- Create and update interpretive materials, exhibits, and digital content that communicate complex scientific concepts engagingly.
- Collaborate with other divisions to integrate ancient life themes into broader STEM and humanities curricula.
- Contribute to grant writing and fundraising efforts to support educational programs and collection expansion/maintenance.
- Participate in field excavations and research projects as opportunities arise, focusing on collection and documentation protocols.
- Train and supervise volunteers and interns in educational delivery and collection management tasks.
Required Skills
- Master's degree in Paleontology, Archaeology, Museum Studies, Geology, Biology, or a related field with an ancient life focus.
- Minimum of 3 years of professional experience in museum education, collection management, or public science communication.
- Demonstrated expertise in the identification, preparation, and conservation of paleontological or archaeological specimens.
- Proven ability to develop and deliver engaging educational content for diverse age groups.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and presentation abilities.
- Proficiency with museum collection databases and digital curation tools.
- Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
Preferred Qualifications
- Ph.D. in a relevant field.
- Experience with grant writing and project management in an educational or museum setting.
- Proficiency in additional languages relevant to local communities.
- Familiarity with Florida's specific paleontological or archaeological record.
- Experience with exhibit design and fabrication.
Perks & Benefits
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Generous paid time off, including holidays and sick leave.
- Participation in the Florida Retirement System (FRS).
- Tuition waivers for employees and eligible dependents.
- Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and collections.
- Professional development opportunities and conference attendance support.
- Employee wellness programs and campus amenities.
- A vibrant and inclusive academic community.
How to Apply
If you are interested in this position, please click the "Apply Now" button below. To ensure your application is properly considered, please prepare the following:
- An up-to-date Resume or CV
- A brief cover letter summarizing your experience and motivation
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.
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