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Science Outreach Program Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Outreach Program Manager Job Summary: The Confectionery Program Manager oversees and manages the operations of the confectionery science outreach program within the Department of Food and Nutritional ...

$12.70/hr

... Outreach in the Eberly College of Science is currently seeking enthusiastic applicants for Videographer positions in the Science-U summer science camp program. For assigned camps, Science-U ...

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Science Outreach Program information

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How much do science outreach program jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for science outreach program in the United States is $25.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $34.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Science Outreach Program role, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Science Outreach Program role, you typically need a strong background in science education or communication, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in public engagement. Familiarity with presentation tools, educational technologies, and content management systems is commonly required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, creativity, and the ability to tailor messaging to diverse audiences help someone excel in this position. These skills ensure effective science communication, broaden public understanding, and foster enthusiasm for scientific topics.

What is a Science Outreach Program?

A Science Outreach Program is an initiative designed to engage the public, students, or specific communities with science through educational activities, workshops, demonstrations, and events. The goal is to make science accessible and interesting, promote scientific literacy, and inspire future generations of scientists. These programs are often run by universities, research institutions, museums, or non-profit organizations, and they may focus on a particular area of science or cover a broad range of topics. Participants can benefit from hands-on learning, interaction with scientists, and opportunities to experience science in real-world contexts.

What is the difference between Science Outreach Program vs Science Educator?

AspectScience Outreach ProgramScience Educator
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in science or education, sometimes with outreach or communication trainingRequires a degree in science, education, or related field; certifications may enhance prospects
Work EnvironmentCommunity events, schools, museums, science festivals, outreach programsClassrooms, schools, educational institutions, museums
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, educational institutions, science centers, government agenciesSchools, educational organizations, museums, science centers

While both roles focus on science education, Science Outreach Program professionals primarily engage in community-based outreach activities, whereas Science Educators typically work directly within educational settings to teach students. Both roles require strong science knowledge and communication skills, but Outreach Programs emphasize event organization and public engagement, while Educators focus on classroom instruction.

What are some common challenges faced when coordinating a Science Outreach Program, and how can they be addressed?

A key challenge in managing a Science Outreach Program is engaging diverse audiences while ensuring scientific content remains accurate and accessible. Coordinators must balance the needs of schools, community groups, and stakeholders, often with limited resources or tight schedules. Effective communication, creative program design, and strong partnerships with scientists and educators are crucial to overcoming these challenges. Regular feedback and adaptability also help ensure outreach activities remain impactful and inclusive.
More about Science Outreach Program jobs
What states have the most Science Outreach Program jobs? States with the most job openings for Science Outreach Program jobs include:
Outreach Coordinator

Outreach Coordinator

Purdue University

West Lafayette, IN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Purdue University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 136 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

273rd of 553 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Outreach Coordinator
City: West Lafayette
Job Description:
Job Summary
Senior Program Administration Specialist (Outreach Coordinator)
College of Science | Physics and Astronomy | Purdue University-West Lafayette Indiana
The Department of Physics and Astronomy is seeking a thoughtful and skilled professional to lead and evolve its K-12 outreach efforts. This role offers the opportunity to connect scientific research with broader communities while supporting meaningful learning experiences for students and educators across Indiana.
About the Role
As the Senior Program Administration Specialist, you will oversee a comprehensive portfolio of physics and astronomy outreach programs designed for K-12 students and teachers. You will guide the development of engaging, research-informed curriculum and coordinate a range of activities-from on-campus events and school visits to teacher workshops and virtual programming. Working closely with faculty, staff, and student volunteers, you will help translate complex scientific concepts into accessible, impactful learning experiences. This position plays an important role in fostering curiosity, strengthening science education, and supporting a more scientifically literate community.
The Mission of the Outreach Coordinator
The position administers a multifaceted and multimodal physics and astronomy outreach program. The position integrates faculty, their research team, and research topics into the outreach program, furthering the academic and research mission of the department. The position delivers a host of K-12 and adult education activities that showcase physics and astronomy topics and connect student learning to our faculty's world class research activities. The primary educational audience is K-12 students and teachers, with parents and adult learners a bonus audience. Through educational outreach, the position cultivates student recruitment pathways, public engagement, and service to local, regional, national, and international communities.
Key Responsibilities
  • Serve as a lead educator and program administrator on all outreach ventures
  • Recruits, trains, and supervises graduate and undergraduate students to administer all levels of the outreach program. Integrates student organizations associated with the department into this cadre of volutneers (e.g. Quantum Student Organizations, Society of Physics Students, Purdue Astromony Club, Gender Minorities in Physics, Physics Graduate Student Association)
  • Coordinatores and delivers activities for teacher professional development
  • Teaches departmental practicum courses

This is a role well-suited to someone who values both education and engagement-someone who enjoys designing programs, building relationships, and contributing to the broader mission of science outreach.
What We're Looking For
Education and Experience Required:
  • Bachelors of Science required, in Physics, Astronomy, Chemistry, Biology, Math, Geology, or related science-based field
  • Minimum of four (4) years of experience teaching in any K-12 level required
  • Experience in curriculum development, and event planning desired

Preferred:
  • Master's degree

Skills Needed:
  • Knowledge of:
    • school science programs, K-12 curricula, K-12 academic standards for physics and astronomy, other sciences, and K-12 National Education Standards
    • physics and astronomy, trends in science education, and ability to use technology
  • Creative thinking and the ability to develop materials to promote awareness and interest in physics and astronomy, and general science for K-12 audience
  • Able to:
    • be the liaison to public schools in Indiana and to coordinate the physics and astronomy K-12 outreach program
    • provide enhancement of the teaching of science in K-12 in the state of Indiana by providing teachers with information, activities, and pedagogical ideas
  • Certified teacher is desirable
  • Ability to:
    • communicate effectively with a wide variety of people at all age levels
    • write proposals for external funding and communicate with Purdue donors

Additional Information:
  • Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
  • A background check will be required for employment in this position
  • FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible for Overtime)
  • Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contribution Waiting Period
  • Benefit Statement: Purdue University offers a substantial Benefit Package including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days

Career Stream
Professional 3
  • Pay Band S065
  • Job Code #20002087

Career path maker: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/careerpathmaker/
Who We Are
Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Purdue University is an EOE employer.

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