SCIENCE INSTRUCTOR

Organization Mission: The Oliver Scholars Program prepares high-achieving students from underserved New York City communities for success at top independent schools and prestigious colleges.

Job Title: Science Instructor

Report To: Director of Academic Affairs

Department: Academic Affairs

Position Type: Seasonal part-time — Spring

FLSA: Exempt

SUMMARY: Oliver Scholars seeks a science instructor to plan and implement a curriculum for eighth-grade students. The instructor’s primary objective is to equip students with mindsets and practices to flourish at rigorous independent high schools. Students should gain improved competency, skill, and habits of mind. The instructor will assist the Admissions & Placement department to outline expected curricular outcomes and track student progress. This position reports to the Director of Academic Affairs and is an excellent opportunity to experience various aspects of scholarship and youth development with an educational nonprofit organization.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Teach in person Saturdays from April to June 2026 and be available for office hours, study hall, and faculty meetings.
• Use the Oliver Scholars course description to design a high school-level integrated science curriculum— including syllabus, lesson plans, assignments, readings, labs, and tests/quizzes.
• The course uses the topic of microplastics to explore key concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics. Students will examine biological systems, chemical composition, and environmental impacts to suggest methods to change how plastics are managed and disposed of. Guided by the instructor, students will collaborate in groups to analyze evidence as scientists and address a daily guiding question. Each module includes a hands-on lab designed to reinforce and deepen their learning.
• Write detailed Interim and Final Evaluation Reports
• Team with tutors, Teaching Assistants, and Oliver Scholars leadership to instruct and support students.
• Attend weekly faculty meetings.

QUALIFICATIONS

• A BA/BS degree from an accredited college or university.
• Two or more years of teaching experience at the middle school or high school level
• Two or more years of experience designing curriculum.
• Knowledge of independent schools preferred.
• Outstanding speaking, writing, and editing skills.
• Deep knowledge of the principles of teaching students
• A mission-driven individual with a belief in and commitment to Oliver’s mission and values
• A flexible, creative individual able to find alternative ways to connect with students.
• Emotionally mature with a good sense of humor and the flexibility and sensitivity to work with diverse personalities and situations.
• A hard worker with a high energy level; a “doer” with a willingness to work hands-on in developing and executing a variety of activities.
• A good listener who is comfortable receiving feedback

DESIRED COMPETENCIES

• Ethics - Treats people with respect; Keeps commitments; inspires the trust of others; works with integrity and ethically; upholds organizational values.
• Adaptability - Adapts to changes in the work environment; willing to learn new techniques and procedures; Manages competing demands; changes approach or method to best fit the situation; able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events.
• Innovation & Initiative Displays original thinking and creativity; Meets challenges with resourcefulness; Generates suggestions for improving work; Develops innovative approaches and ideas; Presents ideas and information in a manner that gets others' attention; Looks for and takes advantage of opportunities.
• Planning/Organizing & Project Management - Prioritizes and plans work activities; Uses time efficiently; Plans for additional resources; Sets goals and objectives; Organizes or schedules other people and their tasks; Develops realistic action plans; Communicates changes and progress; Completes projects on time and budget.
• Interpersonal Skills - Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming; listens to others without interrupting; keeps emotions under control; remains open to others' ideas and tries new things.

COMPENSATION: Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience. Salary range: $4,500 to $6,550.

EEO

Oliver Scholars is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis (“protected class”) including, but not limited to veteran status, uniform service member status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law.