Education Program Coordinator

Position Title: Education Program Coordinator 
Location: Stratford Ecological Center – Delaware, Ohio
Position Type: Full-time, Exempt
Reports to: Education Director 

ABOUT STRATFORD 

Stratford Ecological Center is a nonprofit educational farm and nature preserve dedicated to nurturing an understanding of the relationships between living things and their environment. Through immersive, hands-on learning experiences, we foster a deep appreciation for the land and the life it sustains. Stratford’s 236-acre working farm; forests, and conservation areas serve as living classrooms for thousands of children and adults each year. 

POSITION OVERVIEW & KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The Education Program Coordinator at Stratford Ecological Center plays a crucial role in bringing our mission to life by engaging learners of all ages, with an emphasis on children’s education, in meaningful and immersive educational experiences. Reporting to the Education Director, you will contribute to the development and implementation of educational programs that ignite a passion for environmental stewardship and sustainable living. The Education Program Coordinator must have a passion for children’s education, and a desire to educate, engage, and connect with children, guardians, and volunteers to foster enduring relationships. This role demands the ability to create an atmosphere of belonging and collaboration among staff and volunteers. This person must be extremely motivated in their work and create an environment of discovery and learning while promoting a high level of energy and fun. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Program Delivery: Facilitate engaging environmental education programs for students, families, and community groups, occasionally working evenings or weekends as needed to support program needs.
• Curriculum & Lesson Planning: Develop and implement lesson plans and materials in collaboration with the Education, Land & Agriculture, and Volunteer teams to ensure alignment with Stratford’s mission and educational philosophy.
• Hands-On Learning: Provide experiential learning opportunities that connect participants with nature, emphasizing ecological principles, sustainable practices, and the interconnectedness of the farm, forest, prairie, and wetland ecosystems.
• Volunteer Engagement: Partner with the Volunteer Coordinator to recruit, train, and support volunteers involved in educational programming.
• Celebrate Learning: Track participation, gather feedback, and contribute to ongoing assessment and improvement of program quality and impact.
• Safety & Compliance: Ensure participant safety and adherence to environmental, behavioral, and organizational policies across all program settings.
• Community Connection: Build and maintain relationships with participants, schools, organizations, and community partners to expand program reach and collaboration.
• Teamwork & Stewardship: Actively contribute to a positive, flexible team culture, supporting daily program operations, land stewardship, and animal and garden care as needed.
• Professional Growth: Stay current on environmental education trends and best practices, integrating new knowledge to strengthen Stratford’s programs and impact.

QUALIFICATIONS 

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience demonstrating the ability to oversee program development, delivery, and administrative coordination in an environmental education setting.
• Demonstrated passion for environmental education and sustainable living.
• Experience facilitating hands-on, experiential learning activities.
• Demonstrated expertise in working with children across various age groups, with the ability to engage, educate, and inspire young learners.
• Strong knowledge of sustainable farming techniques, environmental issues, conservation practices, and ecological principles.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a team and contribute to a positive and dynamic work environment.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
• Current certification in First Aid and CPR or ability to acquire certification upon hire.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Creativity and adaptability in modifying programs for diverse audiences and settings.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to balance planning, logistics, and field instruction.
• Proven ability to take initiative, solve problems, and anticipate program needs.
• Experience leading or supporting volunteers in an educational or outdoor setting.
• Familiarity with agricultural or conservation education programs.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

This is a full-time, on-site position based at our farm and nature center. We offer a collaborative and inclusive work environment with opportunities for professional growth. The position requires flexibility to work varied hours, including weekends, as needed to support programs and events. Work hours are flexed throughout the week and season to maintain a healthy balance and accommodate seasonal program needs.

• Must be willing and able to work outdoors in year-round weather conditions.
• Must be able to walk on uneven trails and natural terrain.
• Ability to lift at least 25 pounds, bend, kneel, reach, and twist with or without accommodation.
• Work involves both indoor administrative tasks and active outdoor engagement with children, animals, and natural environments.
• Role requires flexibility to shift between fieldwork, education delivery, and administrative coordination

Why Join Us? Total Rewards, Compensation and Benefits

• Salary: Starting $41,000; commensurate with experience
• Health & Wellness Benefits – medical, dental, vision, and life coverage at no cost to employees
• Retirement Contributions – 401(k) with employer match
• Generous Time Away – Vacation, holidays, and personal days
• A Beautiful Work Setting – A nature preserve and farm as your daily backdrop
• This is a full-time, exempt position based at Stratford Ecological Center. 

READY TO MAKE AN IMPACT? HOW TO APPLY

If you’re looking for a mission-driven career where your work directly impacts education, conservation, and our community, we invite you to apply. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and references to: stratfordHR@stratfordecologicalcenter.org 

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Priority consideration will be given to applicants who apply on or before December 12th, 2025.  This position will remain open until filled.