Nature-based Learning Educator

The Nature-based Learning Educator is responsible for leading nature-based learning (NBL) lessons in a variety of environments in collaboration with Rochester Ecology Partners team members and community partners. This includes our WildWonder, in school programming, as well as our NeighborhoodNature, free-time programming. Nature-based learning occurs when education is connected to the natural world. This includes outdoor experiences that complement and enhance the curriculum, or bringing outdoor artifacts and ideas into their classrooms, to create more robust educational opportunities that foster a connection to the natural world and support the development of curiosity and joy in learning and their local environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following

• Lead and support nature-based learning activities for 3-18 year olds (80%)
  • Ensure the safety of youth participants
  • Lead and co-lead Nearby Nature lessons in school
  • Plan Field Studies for classes
  • Coaching and planning with educators
  • Create an environment of joy and excitement about nature-based learning
  • Collaboratively plan, organize, and facilitate NBL lessons in schools, on school grounds, and on field studies off school grounds
  • Write WildWonder lesson plans for in school programs and NeighborhoodNature programming for free-time programs
  • Act as site coordinator on a field study for a class of up to 30 children
  • Act as site coordinator for Neighborhood Nature programming
• Administrative and program management (10%)
  • Assist in the management of materials
  • Data management
  • Communicate with collaborators (school and community partners)
  • Communicate with parents in Neighborhood Nature programs
• Participate in training programs (5%)
• Support the facilitation of professional development for educators (5%)

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by the Program Development Manager and Executive Director to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.

Desired Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

The following qualifications are desired but optional. The position will be filled by someone who is the best fit for the position. 

• A background in nature-based learning, education, environmental science, or a similar field
• Experience working with youth in outdoor settings
• environmental education training
• Bachelor’s degree OR at least 4 years of related experience OR a comparable combination of education and experience
• Cultural competence and the ability to work with people from a variety of backgrounds and experiences 
• Experience developing and delivering educational and engaging curriculum and/or informal educational programs for diverse audiences
• Ability to manage a variety of tasks
• Flexibility and creativity when faced with challenges
• The ability to work collaboratively in person and digitally with members of a team
• Experience coordinating logistics and managing multiple schedules 
• CPR / First Aid certification

Work Environment / Expectations

• Approximately 35-40 hours per week
• General working hours of 8AM to 4PM with flexible scheduling
• Position requires outdoor physical activity in all seasons for multiple hours at a time with groups of children
• Working in multiple locations in Greater Rochester, mostly in the City of Rochester
• Schools, parks, and natural areas are the most common working locations
• All staff working with children must consent to a fingerprint background check