Mechanic, Science of Speed, Part Time

About the Daniel G. and Carole L. Kamin Science Center

Kamin Science Center is dedicated to inspiring learning and curiosity by connecting science and technology with everyday life. By making science both relevant and fun, the Science Center’s goal is to increase science literacy in the region and motivate young people to seek careers in science and technology. One of the four Carnegie Museums, the Science Center is Pittsburgh’s premier science exploration destination and the region’s most visited museum, reaching more than 500,000 people annually through its hands-on exhibits, camps, classes, and educational programs.

Please scroll to the bottom of this page to see information on the starting pay rate.  

This Part-Time position is eligible for many of the Carnegie Museums' Benefits.

This is a union position. 

The Mechanic, Science of Speed supports the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the electric go-kart fleet, track systems, and related mechanical and technical components within the Science of Speed exhibition. This role ensures that all karts and technical systems are maintained, inspected, and repaired promptly so that visitors can have a smooth, high quality racing experience.

QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• A high school diploma or GED is required.
• Experience in mechanical repair, electrical systems, or maintenance of electrical vehicles/equipment is preferred.
• Experience in environments requiring adherence to strict safety protocols.
• Experience in audio-visual systems is a plus.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort in working with electric motors utilizing lead-acid/lithium batteries.
• Ability to troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair mechanical and technical issues quickly.
• Strong organizational skills for maintaining logs, inspection forms, and repair reports.
• Effective communication skills for coordinating with managers and front line staff.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced operational environments with high safety expectations.
• Ability to handle a flexible work schedule that includes a variable work week. This includes weekday, evening, weekend, and holiday work as needed.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to lift 50lbs when moving equipment or kart components.
• Ability to kneel, bend, reach, and maneuver around equipment and track spaces.
• Ability to walk the entire multi-level track, including being comfortable with heights up to 20 feet off the ground and climbing stairs, is required.
• Frequent movement throughout the Science of Speed exhibition.

Candidates will be considered qualified if they can perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Conduct opening/closing track and kart performance checks, as well as routine inspections of electric go-karts, identifying mechanical, electrical, or safety issues.
• Ensure the track, pit, and kart shop areas are clean and safe.
• Perform repairs promptly to minimize downtime and ensure visitor safety.
• Maintain logs of work performed, repairs completed, and parts used.
• Inspect and maintain track-related systems including barriers, lighting, timing equipment, and safety mechanisms.
• Support daily “track walk” safety checks alongside Track Marshals and managers. Assist track crew with track operations in limited situations.
• Ensure all repairs and maintenance activities meet safety and operational protocols established for the exhibition.
• Participate in safety audits and implement corrective actions as directed. Deliver rapid response to critical karting incidents.
• Communicate technical issues to Mechanics Manager and assist in determining operation impacts.
• Support coordination with Special Events staff to ensure technical readiness for evening rentals and racing leagues.
• Occasionally assist guests understanding kart features, seat fitting, or safety concerns during troubleshooting scenarios.
• Conduct opening and closing of track, exhibits, and lighting with basic A/V troubleshooting.
• Provide a professional, guest-focused presence consistent with Kamin Science Center service expectations.
• All other duties as assigned.

The following PA Act 153 clearances, or proof of application of clearances, are required beginning employment and as a condition of continued employment: Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check FBI Fingerprint Criminal Background Check Obtaining the required clearances is completed as part of the new hire process.

Carnegie Museums is an Equal Opportunity Employer

The above job description reflects the essential functions and qualifications for the position identified, and shall not be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be inherent in the position. The job description does not constitute an employment contract and does not alter the at-will relationship between CMP and the employee.   

*GUIDANCE ON ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:   The Americans with Disabilities Act (“ADA”) requires employers to consider and accommodate qualified individuals with disabilities.  An individual is qualified if he or she can perform the essential functions of a job with or without reasonable accommodation. An essential job function is any task that is a fundamental part of the job.  When considering essentiality, one must focus upon whether the function is essential to this particular job and not to the department as a whole. Some additional guidance on essential functions follows below.  Please note that the following guidelines are non-exhaustive.  If you have any questions or need additional guidance, please contact Human Resources. A. Is the function required to be performed on a regular basis? If the function is rarely performed, it may not be essential. B. Is the function highly specialized? Is the incumbent hired for his/her expertise or ability to perform the function?  The need for special expertise is an indication of an essential function. C. Does the position exist, at least in part, to perform the function?  If so, the function is more likely to be essential. D. How much time is spent performing the function and how often?  Note that even functions performed 10% of the time could be essential if they are required on a regular basis. E. Would elimination of the function fundamentally alter the job?  If so, the function is more likely to be essential. F. What are the consequences of not requiring the incumbent to perform the function? If they are significant, the function is more likely to be essential.  G. Are there a limited number of employees among whom the performance of the function could be distributed if the incumbent could not perform it?  If so, it is more likely to be essential.