Early Childhood Community Engagement Specialist (Part-Time)

Port Discovery Children’s Museum is seeking a Community Engagement Specialist to facilitate community-centered learning experiences that support families, caregivers, and community partners in understanding and applying the science of play.

About the role

The Community Engagement Specialist builds meaningful relationships with families and community partners while modeling playful learning strategies. This position requires frequent travel between Port Discovery Children’s Museum and partnering community organization sites, and involves transporting, lifting, packing, and unpacking program materials daily.

Responsibilities

• Use a play-based, interactive, relationship-centered approach to facilitate Communities At Play (a 6-session multi-generation experience designed to empower families with tools of playful learning).
• Create welcoming and inclusive learning environments where participants feel valued and engaged.
• Model playful learning practices families can apply in everyday routines.
• Support positive group dynamics and foster meaningful discussion and reflection.
• Adapt facilitation strategies to meet the needs of diverse groups.
• Collaborate with the community engagement team to support program quality.
• Prepare materials and learning environments for sessions.
• Participate in professional learning opportunities.
• Support storytelling and impact efforts by sharing participant feedback and observations.
• Track attendance and session documentation.
• Communicate scheduling, supply, and participant needs.

Requirements

• Minimum 1 year of experience working with children, families, or community-based programs.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours including some evenings and weekends.
• Access to consistent personal transportation and ability to travel within the state to different locations.
• Must be 18 years of age and able to pass a background check.
• Ability to facilitate active, movement-based sessions.
• Ability to transport materials up to 30 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications

• Background in early childhood education, family engagement, or community education.
• Experience with play-based learning or informal education.
• Bilingual or multilingual.
• Experience facilitating groups or workshops.
• Early Childhood Education credentials or college degree.

Pay

$20–$22 per hour, based on relevant experience.

Schedule

• Part-time, 16–22 hours per week.
• Typical shifts: 4-hour blocks, primarily weekday mornings.
• Flexibility required for occasional weekends and evenings based on program scheduling.

Benefits

• Free admission to the Museum for family.
• Earned time off for sick leave.
• Retirement savings with Museum match after 6 months.
• Convenient location next to a subway stop or free parking.