Science Systems and Applications Inc, (SSAI) is seeking an Aerospace Instructor to join the Space Adventure Camp team at the Virginia Space Flight Academy (VASFA), located at NASA Wallops Flight Facility. The Aerospace Instructor at Space Adventure Camp develops and delivers an innovative aerospace curriculum for campers aged 11-16. This includes hands-on learning, integrating technology, and connecting lessons to behind-the-scenes tours at NASA Wallops Flight Facility. As an Aerospace Instructor, you'll be instrumental in shaping young minds, nurturing their passion for space exploration, and guiding them toward exciting careers in aerospace. This role involves leadership, mentorship, and ensuring a safe and inclusive camp environment. This is a temporary position. Pre and Post Camp are telework. Position is on-site during the 8 week camp program; Food and Lodging are provided.

Key Responsibilities

1. Aerospace Curriculum Research & Development:

• Design and develop engaging lesson plans and activities focused on rocketry, drones, and space exploration for Base Camp, ages 11 - 15, and Advanced Aerospace Camp, ages 12 - 16.
• Lessons include hands-on learning experiences that cater to age groups and skill levels.
• Lessons include the latest advancements in aerospace technology and integrate relevant content into the curriculum.
• Lessons integrate real-world examples from activities highlighted at NASA, NOAA, Rocket Lab, and Virginia Spaceport Authority.

2. Instruction and Facilitation

• Implement a comprehensive aerospace curriculum that meets the needs and interests of the camp's target populations and ensures its delivery in a safe and high-quality manner.
• Deliver interactive and informative lessons that inspire curiosity and critical thinking among camp participants.
• Organize and supervise practical workshops where campers can build and launch model rockets, operate drones, and simulate space missions.
• Provide guidance and support to campers as they explore topics such as aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and space missions.
• Encourage campers to envision themselves as future aerospace professionals by showcasing real-world applications of their skills and knowledge.
• Offer personalized feedback and assistance to campers as they work on projects and experiments.
• Foster a collaborative learning environment where campers feel encouraged to ask questions and experiment with new concepts.
• Demonstrate proper safety procedures and techniques during hands-on activities to ensure a secure learning environment.
• Collaborate with the leadership team and counselors to adapt the camp curriculum to meet the needs of campers when needed.

3. Mentorship and Career Guidance

• Serve as a mentor and role model for campers, sharing your passion for aerospace and offering insights into potential career pathways.
• Provide guidance on academic pursuits, extracurricular activities, and professional development opportunities related to aerospace.

4. Management and Operations

• Work with camp directors to ensure appropriate time is secured for instruction and activities.
• Create a positive and supportive environment for camp staff by proactively identifying needs and facilitating solutions.
• Foster a positive work environment that promotes teamwork, creativity, and accountability.
• Participate in other camp activities and roles as needed.
• Maintain clear and positive communication with all camp staff.
• Participate in weekly pre and post-camp crew meetings.
  

5. Camper Safety and Well-Being

• Follow camp procedures and safety protocols and implement crisis and risk management procedures in accordance with camp standards and regulations.
• Monitor camper health and well-being and coordinate with camp directors to secure medical professionals as needed.
• Work with camp directors and staff to address camper behavior, assess its appropriateness, enforce appropriate safety regulations and emergency procedures, and apply proper behavior management techniques.
  

6. Community Relations

• Be an exemplary role model by displaying a positive attitude, interest, and motivation while working with staff, campers, other team members, and community partners.
• Maintain a professional working relationship with all partnering organizations, including NASA, NOAA, Rocket Lab, Virginia Spaceport Authority, and various community and business partners.
• Build positive relationships to promote the camp.
  

7. Materials and Resource Management

• Identify and procure supplies, materials, and equipment needed to implement the aerospace curriculum and oversee their inventory and organization throughout the camp season.
• Assist camp directors with coordinating the logistics for facilities, resources, equipment, and transportation for aerospace instruction.
• Responsible for managing and caring for all aerospace program areas' physical facilities and equipment.
• Implement risk management procedures.
  

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree (in progress) in Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautical Science, or related field and prior experience working with children or young adults in an educational setting, such as summer camps, workshops, or after-school programs or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong knowledge of aerospace principles, including aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and spacecraft design.
• Proficiency in hands-on activities such as rocketry, drone operation, and engineering challenges.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to convey complex concepts in a clear and engaging manner.
• Enthusiasm for space exploration and a genuine desire to inspire the next generation of aerospace professionals.
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
• Work as a member of a team and complete tasks with minimal supervision.
• Ensuring the health and safety of the campers and staff is a priority.
• Display maturity of judgment and behavior.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Visual and auditory ability to identify and respond to environmental and other hazards related to the activity.
• Physical ability to respond appropriately to situations requiring first aid. Must be able to assist campers in an emergency (fire, evacuation, illness, or injury) and possess the strength and endurance needed to maintain constant supervision of campers.
• Ability to work in an outdoor environment in hot/humid conditions.
• Willingness to live in a camp setting and work irregular hours.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen.
• Must be able to pass a NASA and criminal background investigation.
• Must pass drug and alcohol screen.
• During pre-camp season work, you must be able to work independently and remotely.
• Must work the entire 4-month summer camp operation, including the pre-camp season.
• Work full-time during the summer camp season; other work-related activities are not permitted during camp operations as maximum flexibility is required.
• Must possess a valid driver's license.
• Maintain appropriate interpersonal and personal boundaries.
• Adheres to VASFA safety protocols and requirements.
• Upholds in a highly professional manner.

EOE, including disability/vets

Physical Requirements: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, and use hands to touch, handle or feel objects, tools or controls. The employee frequently is required to talk and hear and occasionally required to reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.