Nature Center Educator

Title: Nature Center Educator

Classification: Part-time

Supervisor: Executive Director

Hours: Average of 16 hours per week

Evergreen Audubon & Nature Center is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to conserve wildlife and natural ecosystems, provide community science experiences, and inspire and educate our community to benefit all people and biodiversity. The purpose of the Evergreen Nature Center, operated by Evergreen Audubon, is to foster contagious enthusiasm and life-long respect for the natural world by providing fun and inspiring educational experiences.

Summary:

At Evergreen Audubon & Nature Center we are a passionate and enthusiastic group of nature lovers dedicated to helping individuals of all ages connect with nature on a more meaningful level and gain a better understanding of our natural world. The Nature Center Educator will work collaboratively with our experienced staff and volunteers to provide excellent customer service and education to visitors, lead high-quality nature-based programming to participants of all ages, and support care of our Animal Ambassadors. The Nature Center Educator will staff Evergreen Nature Center (ENC) during open hours including Saturdays and Sundays.

Schedule:

Schedule will vary according to needs and seasons. Includes weekend work and occasional evenings. Weekend hours are a requirement for this position. Additional hours may be required as necessary. Evergreen Nature Center is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00am – 4:00pm between Labor Day and Memorial Day; during the summer months (Memorial Day to Labor Day), ENC is open Wednesday – Sunday from 10:00am – 4:00pm.

Primary Responsibilities:

Staffing Evergreen Nature Center (ENC)

• Staff ENC during operational hours including weekends
• Provide positive interactions with visitors and groups at ENC
• Provide interpretation of exhibits and local wildlife
• Run sales in the Nature Center gift shop
• Support and cultivate positive engagement with ENC volunteers
• Assist with the design, construction, and upkeep of educational exhibits
• Accurately report ENC visitor information and sales transactions
• Assist with daily care of ENC animal ambassadors including:
  • Cleaning ambassador animal enclosures
  • Preparing food for ambassador animals according to schedule and protocol
  • Documenting all animal care activities on the appropriate care sheets

Program Coordination and Implementation

• Lead public program offerings at ENC and surrounding areas
• Lead after-school programming at local elementary schools
• Lead summer camp programming from June to August
• Collaborate with staff to develop, enhance, and implement curricula and programs
• Work closely with community partners to offer high-quality partner programs
• Assist in the setup and cleanup of program areas

Performing other duties as assigned.

Desired Qualifications:

• Must be at least 18 years of age or older
• Must be able to pass a background check
• Enthusiasm for the natural world
• Exceptional interpersonal skills, attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and a high degree of organization.
• Strong communication skills
• Experience with teaching environmental education in informal settings
• Knowledge of basic natural history and conservation issues; familiar with Rocky Mountain ecosystems
• Comfort with animal tasks, handling, and willingness to learn
• Ability to effectively manage time and meet deadlines
• Flexible and willing to perform all duties as directed including weekend and evening work, and an ability to handle changes in work scheduling due to weather, programs or staffing needs.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

Because we value the strength diversity brings to the workplace, Evergreen Audubon does not discriminate against any person or organization based on age, race, sex, color, creed, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender identity, gender expression, ancestry, marital status, gender, veteran status, political service, affiliation, or disability. We encourage applications from candidates representing diverse backgrounds.