Conservation Educator

Job Description:   Conservation Educator (Part-time- Full time hours)

The mission of Eco Adventures is to offer hands-on learning experiences that provide educational and enriching ecological experiences to students of all ages.  The purpose of these programs is to create positive, personal experiences for participants while inspiring them to make a difference in our planet. Students will have the rare opportunity to encounter extraordinary animals, discover various native and international ecological habitats, explore our environment through various art forms, and learn about ecological, technical, and scientific research projects around the world.

The purpose of the Conservation Educator position is to develop and teach a variety of education programs to children and patrons at birthday parties, outreaches, field trips, library programs, summer camps, school programs, Nature Scout programs, after-school programs, special events and festivals, outdoor education settings.  The Conservation Educator must be experienced with public speaking/teaching to a public audience up to 100 + people with various animals such as insects, arachnids, amphibians, and reptiles.  Duties also include the organization and storage of materials and artifacts and assisting with animal husbandry, program logistics, and development.

Essential Functions:

• Conduct programming, individually/independently and as part of a team, primarily for students ages 3 to 12 in the surrounding areas but also for public patrons at Special Events.
• Public speaking and/or teaching experience working with children is a must.
• Present dynamic and interactive presentations to students and the public at various venues including schools, fairs, camps, and programs.
• Maintenance, care, and organization of props, bio-facts, and supplies.
• Prepare materials for future/upcoming programs and special events.
• Develop and write programs using accurate scientific information.
• Maintain and update information files related to activities, programs, and program contracts.
• Assist in training and supervising Jr Assistant volunteers.
• Lead and assist in developing new programs, birthday parties, scouts, public programs, and camps.
• Lead own kid groups in hikes, seining, slogging, assist with research and environmental outdoor education activities.
• May assist in animal husbandry and handling, including cleaning and feeding animals in the collection.
• Promote conservation and green practices.
• Assist with daily operations of the facility which may include record keeping, computer work, cleaning/chores, phones, customer service, van upkeep, etc.
• Drive a 15-passenger van or mini van with children. Clean driving record. Training will be given.

Qualifications/Basic Job Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in science, education, psychology, or related field OR previous experience working with children and/or working in a non-formal education setting highly preferred. Experience in the science or animal field a plus.  Public speaking or performing experience is a must and an outgoing personality that can interact with people on a daily basis. A current Maryland driver’s license, a clean driving record, and own transportation are required. Knowledge of programming subject matter including the Chesapeake Bay, Rainforest, ocean, and conservation practices.  Must attend a training session that includes expectations, safety protocols, animal handling training, and program information. A background check is required.                                    

Schedules:   Depending on the type of program or venue, schedule and hours will vary from week to week. Instructors will be trained on the job, shadowing and team teaching until they are ready to lead solo.  End of June-August will work mostly weekdays leading camps, teaching outreaches, or weekend bday parties on occasion. 

During the year, it varies with programs and seasons.  On weekends, there are enrichment programs, Open Plays or Jungle Express, birthday parties, and evening/special events. During the week: after-school programs, school programs/Field trips, homeschool programs, program development, artifact and material upkeep, and possible animal husbandry and care during the week (Monday- Friday).  Hours depend on the programming schedule. Can be flexible with schedules if the candidate has another PT job. 

Salary and Benefits:  Salary varies depending on experience and the position you are leading. Training pay is lower until you are on your own.  Starting pay is $15.50 + depending on experience. This is a part-time position approximately 30+ hrs in slow seasons (Fall-Jan) and up to 40 hrs in the Spring-Summer.  Salary is hourly with no insurance benefits. Paid sick/mental health days and personal days are granted depending on time worked at ECO.  Must have your own health and car insurance and live locally.  Mileage compensation is granted at $.40 per mile to and from a location if you drive your own car to a program.  However, most driving will be conducted in company vans.  Intensive training, background check, and CPR/First aid class will be provided.  Due to the time and resources we put into training, we require a minimum length commitment contract of at least one and a half years from the time training ends.  Training time depends on each individual’s learning curves, motivation, and availability.

Part of our proceeds benefit rainforest and crocodilian education, research, and conservation projects. As part of the team, there will be opportunities to become involved in these and other projects in Costa Rica. Staff may also represent the company at conferences and meetings which provide an excellent opportunity for professional development, involvement in professional organizations, and contact development. Eco Adventures, LLC is fully insured and will provide Worker’s Comp to all trained staff and volunteers.   Eco Adventures offers an opportunity to become a mentor to many young people and make a difference in influencing the public about choices and protecting the environment in a fun, laid-back working environment.   Great potential to be promoted to Full-time opportunity.

Ready to make a difference? Please send your cover letter and resume to: EcoAdventuresMD@gmail.com

www.EcoAdventures.org     Disclaimer: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification.  They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and/or skills required of all personnel so classified.