Education Specialist - Museum jobs in Syracuse, NY

Facilities & Exhibits Specialist

Job description

The Museum of Science & Technology (MOST) is a 35,000-square-foot hands-on science museum housed in a 100 -year-old armory building. This position ensures that all exhibits and simulators operate effectively, efficiently, and in a safe manner to enhance the experience of members, guests, and employees of the MOST. This position performs a wide variety of tasks that require a specialized skill set.

Essential Functions

Maintain a variety of mechanical and electrical equipment utilized for museum exhibits and general operations through regular inspection and planned preventative maintenance including but not limited to:

• Administering the facility telephone system including running cabling, routine moves of equipment, programming changes into the system, and troubleshooting and repairing non-working equipment.
• Installing and maintaining computer network cabling and related hardware jacks; patching panels, racks, etc.
• Installing and maintaining audiovisual equipment, including video projector, TV/monitors, media players, sound systems and related cabling.
• Fabricate parts in basement workshop cutting wood and steel to repair various exhibits.
• Check on building systems, boilers, roof leaks, etc. empty or transfer excess water from leaks.

Troubleshoot and perform repairs on museum equipment and exhibits as required including but not limited to:

• Repairing, or refurbishing, rebuilding and fabricating parts for exhibits that are out of service and/or not working properly;
• Repairing or replacing circuit boards; and
• Performing occasional plumbing repairs.

Assist IT department in maintaining computers related to museum exhibits by reporting and logging problems, cleaning equipment, and occasionally making software adjustments.

Perform outside building and grounds maintenance utilizing hand tools and power equipment (e.g., Bobcat skid-steer loader) including but not limited to: mowing the lawn, removing snow and ice and general landscaping.

Perform a variety of administrative tasks utilizing a computer including but not limited to: shopping and purchasing parts, logging expenses, tracking repairs and performing other basis record-keeping functions. Occasionally develop presentations using computer software and present to small groups of employees.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing and work with all Museum team members.
• Ability to proficiently handle technical and system failures within exhibits and other interactive equipment.
• Ability to gather and analyze information skillfully determining best and safest course of action.
• Ability to efficiently execute on multiple priorities/plans/ideas.
• Knowledge of electro-mechanical systems as they relate to interactive exhibits.
• Knowledge of exhibit fabrication, maintenance and repair techniques and materials including those for traveling interactive exhibits, including installation of lighting, video and sound systems.
• Knowledge of mechanical drives, electrical components, hydraulic, pneumatic and electronics as they relate to exhibit construction and repair.
• Ability to operate common machine tools to form and finish metal, plastics, wood and other diverse materials.
• Ability to read blueprints and shop drawings and sketch or produce drawings.

QUALIFICATION STANDARDS

High school diploma or equivalent and previous experience in general maintenance of HVAC, electrical and mechanical systems is required. Work experience with interactive exhibits or similar machines is required. Some experience in a supervisory or lead experience is preferred.

Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered.

EQUIPMENT, MACHINES AND SOFTWARE USED

Basic Equipment and Machinery: Ability to utilize a computer, printer, telephone, facsimile machine, calculator, lawn mower, power and hand tools and forklift or Bobcat.

Computer Software/hardware: Ability to utilize Microsoft 365, basic knowledge of Linux and derivatives including Raspberry Pi OS. Utilizing web browser based setup screens; ability to troubleshoot computer hardware issues and repair as needed.

Safety Equipment: Ability to wear steel-toed boots and safety glasses as needed.

RATE/HOURS: Hourly: $22-$26/hour, 35 hours/week M-F, with occasional weekend days

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Please send resume and cover letter to Evelyn Fabian-Crast at efabian@most.org.