Environmental Educator (Seasonal Internship)

INTERNSHIP TITLE: Environmental Educator (Seasonal) Winter and Spring  

LOCATION: Stratford Ecological Center- Delaware, Ohio

POSITION TYPE: Temporary, Full-Time 

POSITION DATES: Flexible start and end dates with the potential to apply for consecutive seasons. 

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.

INTERNSHIP OVERVIEW: This position plays a key role in supporting Stratford’s environmental education programming throughout the winter and spring seasons. The Environmental Educator will assist with preparing and leading hands-on educational experiences for children and youth, fostering curiosity, connection, and care for the natural world. The successful candidate will report to the Education Director and work closely with staff, volunteers, and participants to ensure engaging, safe, and meaningful learning experiences.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Assist in planning and delivering educational programs for all ages, including workshops, farm tours, nature-based activities, and weekend events.
• Facilitate hands-on lessons connecting participants to nature, sustainable agriculture, and local ecosystems.
• Help maintain a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment.
• Support program logistics, including setup, cleanup, and care of educational materials and teaching spaces.
• Collaborate with staff and volunteers to adapt activities for diverse learning styles and age groups.
• Represent Stratford Ecological Center professionally and enthusiastically to visitors, volunteers, and school groups.
• Support special events and public engagement initiatives as needed.
• Serve as a resource for staff and volunteer questions related to programming.
• Demonstrate professionalism, good humor, and initiative while learning and growing in the field.
• Participate in team trainings, meetings, and events.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS: 

• Passion for environmental education, sustainable agriculture, and nature conservation.
• Passion for working with kids and diverse audiences.
• Previous experience working in educational settings or with diverse age groups is highly valued.
• Strong interpersonal communication skills to engage with participants of all backgrounds, including children, adults, volunteers, the community, and visitors.
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Knowledge or desire to learn about organic and sustainable farming practices, gardening, animal husbandry, ecology, food systems, and the interconnected natural world.
• First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain it) is preferred.
• Must be willing and able to work outdoors in year-round weather conditions.
• Must be able to walk on uneven trails.
• Ability to lift 25 pounds, bend, keel, reach, and twist with or without accommodations
• Must have reliable transportation 

BENEFITS: 

• $13/hour, up to 40 hours per week
• Hands-on experience in environmental education and sustainable agriculture.
• Opportunities for professional development and networking within the environmental and educational fields.
• The chance to make a meaningful impact on the local community and environment.
• A positive and inclusive work environment. 

HOW TO APPLY: Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume, cover letter, and references to internships@stratfordecologicalcenter.org.  Stratford Ecological Center is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Applications open November 12th with candidate interviews starting immediately. Priority consideration will be given to applicants who apply by December 12th, 2025.  This position will remain open until filled.