Upper James Environmental Educator

The James River Association(JRA) is a non-profit organization on a mission to protect the James River and connect people to it. JRA is excited to announce an opening for an Upper James Environmental Educator! In this role, you’ll team up with other JRA staff to organize and develop both existing and new education initiatives. You’ll play a key part in fostering a supportive, positive team environment that values an inclusive, community-focused approach to educational programs.

You’ll also assist a seasonal educator in creating and understanding curriculum and educational techniques. Reporting to the Upper James Education Manager and working closely with seasonal educators, you’ll ensure exceptional service to our stakeholders and schools.

We’re looking for someone with excellent communication and interpersonal skills, a passion for environmental education and curriculum development, and a personal interest in the James River. 

Responsibilities: 

• Lead hands on environmental education programs for students from kindergarten through 12th grade.
• Use spreadsheets and relevant systems to organize and maintain the master education schedule.
• Develop and sustain strong relationships with school administrators, teachers, youth groups, and organizational partners to improve program outcomes and ensure high participation retention in JRA education programs.
• Send out biweekly newsletters to parents and relevant stakeholders to support seasonal camp programs.
• Assist in managing specific student needs, including email correspondence with parents regarding transportation arrangements.
• Oversee volunteer-led water quality testing programs, such as the James River Watch program, ensuring consistent and accurate data collection.
• Assist in creating curriculum for the education program and collaborate with the Upper James Education Manager on program implementation.
• Keep track of inventory, monitor usage, and replenish necessary supplies for the Upper James office, including all program-related materials.

Qualifications: 

• Proficiency with Google suite and Microsoft Excel
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
• 1-2 years of experience in the field of environmental, outdoor, and/or experiential education 

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in environmental science, science education, or a related field.  
• Ability to operate JRA vehicles and obtain a valid state issued driver’s license
• Ability to lift equipment ranging from 40-50 pounds
• Ability to pass applicable pre-hire or licensure background checks
• Must have strong written and oral communication skills and be able to effectively interact with diverse audiences of youth, educators, donors, partners, and the general public.
• Strong working knowledge of best practices in providing environmental education experience for secondary school-aged youth is required.

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• Experience in planning lessons aligned with the state standards of learning (SOL)
• Flexibility and ability to engage positively on a consistent basis with age groups K-12.
• Ability to demonstrate compassion and patience with diverse stakeholders while managing multiple responsibilities.

Competitive Salary & Benefits Package includes fully paid employee-only health and dental coverage, Life and LTD insurance, generous paid time off (starting at four weeks/year), twelve paid holidays, and 401(k) matched contributions! Professional development and growth opportunities. Work-life balance and dynamic, hybrid/flexible work environment. The exempt salary range for this full-time position is $40,000-$45,000 annually, depending upon several factors including education and work experience.