Public Programs Development Manager

About Us

The Tech Interactive, opened in 1998, is an integral part of the San Francisco Bay area, serving families and young people through hands-on activities, experimental labs, and design challenge experiences. Our mission is to inspire the innovator in everyone. We are a diverse team committed to creating learning experiences that empower young people to innovate with creativity, curiosity, and compassion. We believe technology transforms lives globally and aim to develop the next generation of problem-solvers. Joining our team offers a fulfilling and rewarding role focused on giving back to our community, especially those historically marginalized and underserved.

About the Role

The Public Programs Development Manager is responsible for managing and executing the annual programming strategy, including developing and maintaining engineering and maker-related educational programs in The Tech’s science labs and on the gallery floor. This role also advances outreach initiatives through partnerships and programming, manages the program development team, and ensures alignment with the annual programming strategy. This exempt (salaried) position reports to the Senior Director of Interactive Learning Programs.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Senior Director of Interactive Learning Programs and Bio Programs Manager to develop the annual programming strategy, including seasonal programs, events, exhibit and IMAX tie-ins, and ongoing pop-up and hands-on programming throughout the museum and at offsite events.
• Develop, prototype, and execute innovative and engaging hands-on, design-based STEAM learning programs and activities for diverse audiences.
• Oversee and manage the program development team, including skill development, mentorship, performance reviews, and project assignments.
• Develop metrics and evaluation frameworks to measure program impact; collaborate with the Bio Programs Manager to implement observation tools for Interactive Learning Programs.
• Conduct needs assessments and evaluate emerging trends to inform program development within The Tech’s educational programs, including science lab programs and other facilitated experiences.
• Participate in ongoing professional development training and staff meetings, typically held outside normal shift hours.
• Act as Manager on Duty (MOD) as scheduled.
• Complete additional related tasks or duties as assigned by the supervisor/manager.

Requirements

• B.S. in Engineering, Physical Science, or Education.
• Strong ability to evaluate and coach staff; management experience is a plus.
• 2-5 years of experience developing and designing hands-on, interactive STEM programs or experiences for diverse youth audiences.
• 2-5 years of experience engaging with and communicating technical/scientific topics to diverse groups with varying levels of exposure and knowledge.
• Flexibility to adapt in a constantly changing environment and when working with a dynamic audience.

Working Conditions

• This is an on-site role with the possibility of flexibility for working some days at an alternative work location, depending on job needs.
• Availability varies based on The Tech’s operating schedule, including weekends, nights, and offsite events.
• Frequent movement of objects up to 50 pounds.

Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility

Our success depends on building teams with diverse backgrounds and experiences that challenge assumptions with fresh perspectives. We seek a diverse pool of applicants, including those from historically marginalized groups — women, people with disabilities, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, veterans, and people from different socioeconomic backgrounds. The Tech provides equal opportunity in recruitment and employment and does not discriminate based on protected characteristics.

Pay

The pay range for this role is $80,000 - $87,000 per year.