Come join the fun and make a difference with Discovery Cube! For over 25 years, we've been inspiring kids and educators alike with our hands-on science education initiatives and interactive exhibits. Our four core initiatives - STEM proficiency, early childhood education, healthy living, and environmental stewardship - are future-forward in promoting life-long-learning. Plus, with our immersive campuses in Orange County and Los Angeles, as well as our educational outreach programs, there are endless opportunities for learning exploration. As a prominent advocate for modern science education, we believe in empowering our learners with real-world applications and spotlighting science as a solution and force for good. Don't miss out on the excitement and join our important mission today!

Position

Discovery Cube Orange County is seeking a knowledgeable, engaging, and highly organized DinoQuest Fossil Lab Manager to oversee the day-to-day operation of the DinoQuest Fossil Lab. The Fossil Lab functions as both a working preparation and research environment and a public-facing space where guests can observe and learn about paleontology in action.

The Fossil Lab Manager is responsible for the preparation, conservation, documentation, and preservation of fossil specimens while providing operational leadership for the lab. This position establishes and maintains laboratory standards, prioritizes preparation projects, oversees laboratory equipment and materials, and provides day-to-day direction, training, and mentorship to interns and volunteers.

In addition to advanced technical fossil preparation work, the Fossil Lab Manager plays an active role in informal science communication and ensures the lab provides a consistent, engaging, and educational experience for Discovery Cube guests.

Responsibilities

Fossil Lab Operations & Leadership

Oversee the day-to-day operations of the DinoQuest Fossil Lab, ensuring preparation, conservation, documentation, safety, and public engagement activities are carried out effectively.
Prioritize and coordinate specimen preparation projects based on research, exhibition, educational, and organizational needs.
Establish, maintain, and reinforce laboratory procedures and standards related to fossil preparation, conservation, documentation, specimen handling, and safety.
Provide day-to-day direction, training, mentorship, and technical guidance to interns and volunteers, including assigning work and monitoring quality and progress.
Manage laboratory equipment, tools, materials, and supplies, including coordinating routine maintenance, identifying replacement needs, and supporting purchasing and inventory control.
Maintain an organized, safe, professional, and guest-ready laboratory environment.

Fossil Preparation, Conservation & Documentation

Perform advanced manual and mechanical preparation of fossil specimens using microscopes and specialized fossil preparation tools and equipment.
Produce high-resolution molds using silicone rubber or other appropriate materials to capture fine anatomical detail for scientific research and educational use.
Produce research-quality casts using epoxy resin and other appropriate materials for comparative analysis, research, education, and exhibition purposes.
Apply appropriate conservation techniques and materials to stabilize, preserve, repair, and protect fossil specimens.
Ensure the accuracy and integrity of specimen preparation records, research data, photographs, treatment documentation, and digital archives.
Support the digitization, organization, and long-term maintenance of fossil records and related documentation.

Public Engagement & Education

Coordinate the Fossil Lab's public-facing activities and help ensure guests receive a consistent, engaging, and scientifically accurate educational experience.
Communicate scientific concepts, fossil preparation techniques, and paleontological research to guests of varying ages and backgrounds in an engaging and accessible manner.
Provide demonstrations, presentations, and informal educational interactions within the Fossil Lab.