Job Specification

Purpose of Position :

To research, interpret and communicate scientific and technological information in the areas of environmental science and related disciplines, for the conceptualisation, research, development, design and maintenance of exhibits, programs and special events. To provide input and analysis in the review of exhibits, programs and exhibitions. To act as a scientific resource to the staff and the public within this discipline. To liaise with the scientific community in order to add to the knowledge base at the OSC.

Duties / Responsibilities :

1. Researches and develops new exhibit and program ideas as part of major exhibitions, renewal of existing exhibit areas, new temporary exhibitions, ongoing program and event plans by:
• participating in the development of exhibit and program concepts as a member of project teams and renewal teams;
• suggesting topics of interest and value within the content parameters of a project, and working with other staff toward the development of exhibit, program, demonstration and special event ideas, and toward the development of project Creative Briefs;
• developing and experimenting with methods for translating scientific and technological concepts and phenomena into practical exhibits and programs;
• developing exhibit and program elements by: writing draft exhibit copy, documentation and training manuals; building prototypes; developing and delivering prototype demonstrations and programs; creating diagrams, drawings and development quality software programs; developing presentations;
• sourcing and evaluating equipment and artefacts and reviewing video material, illustrations and photographs;
• working with scientists, hosts, designers, prototypers, graphic designers, science writers, computer programmers and fabricators to complete exhibit / program development, ensure scientific and technological accuracy and ensure effective communication with visitors;
• participating in visitor evaluation of exhibits and programs;
• preparing and delivering programs and demonstrations during peak visitor season - summer, Christmas and March Break

2. Provides scientific/technological input to the Thematic Plan development by:
• developing and maintaining awareness of public, research community, and staff perceptions of developments in science and technology;
• developing proposals for large scale exhibitions based on coherent scientific/technological themes;
• working with science and other staff members towards the development of exhibition, program and special activity ideas.

3. Acts as a Scientific/Technological Resource by:
• developing and maintaining awareness of public, research community and staff perceptions of developments in environmental sciences;
• initiating and maintaining contact with scientific and technological experts and other professional staff in industry, the academic community, provincial and federal research facilities;
• working with science staff, hosts and other OSC staff to maintain relevancy of demonstrations and public programs;
• representing the OSC in the scientific and academic communities through personal discussions with individual researchers, participation on committees;
• presentation of papers at conferences, producing seminars on topics of popular appeal and recent interest in science/technology for presentation to the general public, OSC staff, museum community peers;
• regularly developing and delivering public programs and events, which may include demonstrations, stage performances, lecture series, expert panels, workshops, community events and others;
• co-ordinating events with the Special Events Co-ordinator, Marketing Department and other staff;
• providing scientific/technological information to the public by delivering demonstrations and other presentations, answering questions via telephone, email and in person, and by appearing on radio, TV and other media;
• multi-year planning for annual and other recurring events and programs (e.g., programming for el niño)
• developing interactive elements for the web site, and participating in webcasts and related presentations;
• participating in peer review of exhibit ideas and draft copy with other science staff;
• providing scientific/technological information to the general public, students and teachers;
• ensuring ongoing liaison and good working relationships with science, design, exhibit operations and other staff in order that an effective and integrated approach to exhibits and programs be maintained; participating in the teaching of other OSC staff new techniques, technologies, theory and practices within the field of experience.

4. Other duties as required or assigned by the Associate Director, Science

Staffing and Licensing :

Experience with creative interactive science communications, research sources and technology (internet, video, photographic, etc.); specialized knowledge of environmental sciences as normally acquired by an undergraduate degree; excellent communication, presentation, analytical, conceptual skills; proficiency with tools and equipment; computer skills.

Knowledge :

Specialized theoretical knowledge in the field of environmental sciences to assess the scientific integrity of information sources and to interpret/evaluate the scientific validity of information to be used by the Centre. Broad knowledge of the processes of science across less closely related disciplines (e.g. earth sciences, meteorology) with an understanding and appreciation of the social relevance of science and technology. Knowledge of current scientific developments in environmental sciences and technologically related fields for ongoing exhibit or program development and renewal.

Skills :

Demonstrated excellent written and oral communication skills as they relate to the interpretation of complex scientific and technical information into easily understood exhibit ideas and applications. Interpersonal skills are required to work co-operatively in a team and/or project oriented settings. Flexibility in relating to diverse audiences and levels of understanding of science and technology. Strong skills to interpret three-dimensional information from exhibit plans and technical drawings. Office computer skills (hardware and software) are required to prepare reports, memoranda, and e-mail.

Freedom of Action :

Works under the general supervision of the Associate Director Science. During exhibition project development, will also report to the Project Manager. Judgement is exercised in evaluating the relevance of the scientific/technological content of an exhibit or program, and for making decisions about the appropriateness of the proposed information, in the process of researching material. Participates in the evaluation of exhibit/program designs and proposals with a view to scientific and technical merits, feasibility, costs and manufacturability. Judgement is exercised in assisting to determine the most cost/time efficient way(s) of solving communication and technical problems during the development of exhibits and programs.
This position is accountable for synthesising accurate, up-to-date and easily understood scientific/technological information for the communication of complex concepts through the effective use of the exhibit and program media, toward the development of new and the renewal of existing exhibits and programs; with senior scientists and Associate Director ensuring the correct interpretation of information as part of the exhibition development team.