Careers

Job Type: up to 6 Part-time, on call positions, schedules vary but potentially up to 10-30 hours per week as schedules allow.

Position Title: Playologists

Position Description:

Playologists are responsible for the execution of Columbia Play Project’s (CPP) educational programs and activities. Activities include but are not limited to:

• Facilitate CPP’s Mobile Children’s Museum activities and other programs (Pop Up Parties, Makerspace/Artspace, BricQ classes, family events, camps, etc.).

• Deliver education programming that is exploratory play centered, child guided and open-ended. Facilitation includes set up and clean-up activities.

• Support communication, scheduling and follow up with Program Scheduler.

• Maintain materials used for programs and report stock and maintenance needs appropriately.

• Transport materials for programs using CPP vehicles and/or a personal vehicle.

• Assist in the continuing improvement of existing programs and the development of new programs.

• Maintain records regarding delivery, attendance, demographics and evaluation of programs.

• Assist in the training of new facilitators and volunteers.

• Work with nonprofit, school, or partner staff to ensure smooth logistics and delivery of programs.

Job Relationships:

• Supervised by the CPP Play Director or Executive Director.

• Work closely with all other staff and volunteers to ensure quality communication when working at CPP.

• Maintain excellent relationships with personnel at partner organizations.

Education and Experience:

• Experience with and interest in working with 0-12 year old children required.

• Prefer minimum of 2 years’ experience working with children in an educational capacity, preferably in a museum or informal or play-based education setting.

• Demonstrated knowledge of and experience in providing equitable educational experiences with diverse children and families.

• Prefer 2-year degree in education, science, art, engineering or mathematics preferred.

Skills and Abilities:

• Strong written and oral communication and organization skills.

• Excellent presenter of educational content.

• Ability to work effectively with students in diverse classroom/free play environments.

• Ability to create inclusive and safe learning experiences.

• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.

• Must be able to work unsupervised, independently, and take initiative to solve problems.

• Able to work with others in collaborative settings to improve and plan programs.

• Must have computer skills involving, but not limited to, Google Suite and Microsoft Office.

• Fluency in Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese or Chinese and/or other languages aside from English preferred.

Position Requirements:

• Comprehend and speak English extensively and clearly with the public.

• Physical requirements include stooping, kneeling, bending, standing, squatting/crouching, crawling, pushing/pulling, reaching above the shoulders, ability to respond rapidly, working outdoors or exposed to sunlight/heat, and lifting up to 40 lbs, with or without accommodation.

• Tolerate noise and dust in the environment and handle disinfectant and cleaning materials.

• Must have access to reliable transportation, a driver’s license, and appropriate liability insurance.

• Must pass background check.

Wage: $23.00/hour

Benefits: No benefits at this time.

To Apply: Please send a letter of interest and your resume to info@columbiaplayproject.org. Please write “Playologist Application” in the subject line.

CPP is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Prohibits Discrimination and Harassment of Any Kind: Your gender, your gods, your sex life, your skin color or your famous last name don’t make a difference here. CPP is a progressive, open-minded meritocracy. If you’re smart and good at what you do, come as you are. We want you here.

Job Details: FT Salary commensurate with experience $100,000 – $115,000 annually.

Benefits: Paid Time Off, Health Insurance Allowance, Simple IRA

To Apply:  Send Resume and Cover Letter to Jeanne Bennett, Info@columbiaplayproject.org. Phone calls are also welcome — 360-798-8768.

Position Summary:

Columbia Play Project (CPP) seeks a dynamic and visionary Executive Director to lead the organization in its mission to inspire curiosity and learning through play. This role requires a strategic thinker who excels at leadership, fundraising, community engagement, and operational management. The Executive Director will oversee the Mobile Children’s Museum and the development of a permanent Children’s Museum, working closely with the Board of Directors to ensure the organization’s long-term success and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Strategic Planning:

• Provide visionary leadership to advance CPP’s mission and strategic goals.

• Work collaboratively with the Board of Directors to develop and implement strategic plans.

• Cultivate a culture of innovation, inclusivity, and engagement among staff, volunteers, and stakeholders.

Fundraising & Resource Development:

• Develop and implement fundraising strategies, including grant writing, donor stewardship, corporate partnerships, and special events.

• Secure funding to sustain and grow CPP’s programs, operations, and museum development.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with foundations, businesses, government agencies, and individual donors.

Operations & Financial Management:

• Oversee daily operations, ensuring efficiency and adherence to best practices.

• Develop and manage the organization’s budget, ensuring financial sustainability.

• Ensure compliance with nonprofit regulations and maintain transparency in financial reporting.

• Oversee facility planning, exhibit development, and long-term sustainability strategies for the Children’s Museum.

Community Engagement & Advocacy:

• Serve as the public face of CPP, building strong partnerships with local organizations, government agencies, and community leaders.

• Advocate for play-based learning and equitable access to educational opportunities.

• Ensure programming reflects the needs and diversity of the community.

Staff & Program Management:

• Lead, mentor, and manage staff and collaborate with volunteers to ensure high-quality programming.

• Oversee the design and implementation of engaging, educational play experiences.

• Foster a positive and inclusive workplace culture.

• As a small nonprofit, we all wear many hats. Other duties may be required.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive leadership experience in a museum, nonprofit organization, or related field.

• Proven track record in fundraising, grant writing, and donor relations.

• Experience in museum exhibit development, facility management, or capital projects preferred.

• Strong background in nonprofit management, including board governance and compliance.

• Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.

• Bachelor’s degree in museum studies, education, nonprofit management, business administration, or a related field.

• Fluency in Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Chinese, or other languages is a plus.

Skills & Abilities:

• Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking.

• Ability to cultivate relationships and build community partnerships.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and social media management.

• Ability to balance big-picture vision with hands-on operational management.

This is a full time, Monday through Friday position with occasional evening and weekend work. 

This position is currently fully remote with frequent onsite program attendance and in person meetings. 

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Columbia Play Project is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply.