Explainer

About the role

Are you an energetic and skilled presenter passionate about bringing science to life? We are looking for someone who will deliver engaging science shows, demonstrations, and workshops on the floor of a busy and forward-thinking museum.

As part of our diverse and talented Explainer team, you will inspire visitors of all ages by telling authentic stories about science and our collection through performance and facilitation. You will engage schools, families, adults, and community groups, sparking curiosity and opening up STEM career opportunities for young people.

You will receive ongoing training to deliver a high-quality, accessible, and inclusive programme, including learning our suite of Science Shows, safety and safeguarding procedures, and how to best support visitors with additional needs.

A day in the life of an Explainer

Your day might begin with safety checks in our interactive Wonderlab gallery, followed by delivering dynamic shows and workshops and facilitating interactive exhibits with visitors of all ages. You may also help prepare for special events like Astronights (overnight sleepovers) or Early Birds (relaxed early mornings). The role involves a mix of busy public engagement and behind-the-scenes preparation, with plenty of variety and opportunities to connect with diverse audiences.

What you will be doing

* Delivering science shows, demonstrations, and workshops to schools, families, adults, and community groups, both onsite and occasionally offsite.
* Facilitating visitor engagement with interactive exhibits and collections, supporting inclusive access and encouraging enquiry.
* Supporting out-of-hours events such as Astronights and Early Birds with setup and delivery.
* Assisting and working alongside volunteers to enhance visitor experiences.
* Acting as a learning role model to deepen visitors' understanding and appreciation of STEM subjects and museum collections.
* Briefing educational groups to ensure their visits are enjoyable and educational.
* Supporting the safe and efficient operation of museum galleries and learning activities.
* Demonstrating inclusive behaviours and promoting a culture of openness and respect.
* Complying with Health & Safety policies, risk assessments, and contributing to the organisation's preparedness and structured approach.

What you bring to the team

You will have:

* Experience and confidence in performing or presenting shows, demonstrations, or workshops.
* Strong customer service and communication skills, with experience engaging diverse audiences, especially children.
* The ability to work flexibly and collaboratively within a team.
* Initiative and problem-solving skills, knowing when to seek support.
* An interest in STEM subjects.
* Good ICT skills.

It would be great if you also have:

* A basic understanding of STEM principles.
* Experience in acting, storytelling, or related performance activities.
* Experience working with individuals with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
* Experience in museums, science centres, heritage or education environments.

Some things you need to know

* You must have the right to work in the UK. If you believe you are eligible for sponsorship or alternative routes, please contact us before applying.
* An enhanced or basic DBS check will be requested depending on the role. We assess all applicants on a case-by-case basis.
* We support eligible applications to the government's Access to Work scheme.
* Applicants must be 18 or over due to event requirements.
* You are welcome to visit Wonderlab to meet Explainers and see the role in action-please contact to arrange.

Assessment days are scheduled for Thursday 4th or Friday 5th September (attendance required if invited).

We are recruiting for two shift patterns:

* Full Time (37.5 hours/week) working across a 2-week roster including 1 weekend in 2 weeks
* Weekend Only (15 hours/week) working Saturdays and Sundays

Induction will be Monday to Friday, either 6th-10th October or 13th-17th October.

About us

The Science Museum Group is a world-leading collection of museums dedicated to inspiring futures through science, technology, engineering and maths. We welcome over 5 million visitors annually and house millions of remarkable objects across our six national sites.

What we offer

* Meaningful, mission-led work that supports public learning and inspiration.
* Opportunities for personal and professional development.
* Flexible working arrangements and 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
* Health & dental insurance from day one.
* Employee wellbeing programmes and support.
* Colleague networks to foster community and inclusion.
* Enhanced contributory pension and interest-free loans.
* Discounts on museum entry, shops, and cafes.

Open for All is one of the Science Museum Group's five core values and sets out our important aspiration to be a place for everyone. We are working hard to understand our organisation better and to develop a culture that recognises and values different backgrounds, mindsets, skills, experience, knowledge, and expertise. By having greater diversity, we believe that we will be a stronger and better organisation, capable to continue to Inspire Futures.

Museum Website: https://www.aplitrak.com/?adid=aHJzZXJ2aWNlLjQ0MDU3LjExMTkzQHNjaWVuY2VtdXNldW0uYXBsaXRyYWsuY29t