[POSITION FILLED] Associate Director of Nature Center Programs

This position is responsible for the oversight and management of the Nature Center. Responsibilities include supervision of and collaboration with staff working in environmental and natural history education and interpretation, live animal care, and climate change education; oversight and management of the Nature Center’s 100+ acres and nearby Smith Woods (a 32 acre plot of old-growth forest), 5 miles of trails, and historic Lodge and surrounding gardens and grounds; supervision of a large and successful summer camp program; coordination of public education programs for school groups and the general public; and strategic management and planning as part of PRI’s senior staff team.

Ability to effectively communicate and cooperate with various departments within a complex, multi-location organization is key. Successful candidates will be able to stay organized in a fast-paced organization, seamlessly multi-task, and problem-solve various challenges quickly and efficiently. Significant management experience in a nature center, natural history museum, or other similar background is required. Knowledge of northeastern forest ecosystems is a plus.

Required Certifications:

• Annual CPR, Wilderness First Aid, & AED training as required by the Department of Health. (Either current upon hire or willingness to obtain)
• This position must pass a background check and be able to work with children under the age of 18.
• Upon hire, this individual must be able to serve as a back-up Camp Director in case of emergency. The NYS Dept. of Health requirements for this position are:
  • Submit forms LDSS-3370 and DOH-2271 for clearance
  • Hold a Bachelor’s Degree OR at least 21 years old
  • Have at least 24 weeks of administrative or supervisory experience in camping.

Required Skills:

• Competency with basic and power tools such as cordless drills, hatchet, splitting maw, hand saw, loppers, garden tools, etc.
• Ability to drive UTV (maintenance experience preferred)
• Experience in providing Environmental Education & Interpretive programming in a non-formal education setting such as a nature center or park.
• Comfortable working with a variety of live animals both wild and domestic as needed
• Supervision and organizational leadership skills and experience managing teams
• Teamwork mindset and ability to collaborate across departments
• Must be comfortable working outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions.
• Must be able to learn new skills and problem solve
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal skills

Desired Qualifications:

• 3 plus years experience in natural resource management, environmental education, camp management, or related field.
• Familiarity with northeastern forest ecosystems
• Experience overseeing multiple departments and diverse individuals
• Experience teaching archery in a camp or school setting.