Seasonal Garden Educator

The Battery Conservancy (TBC) is a non-profit organization that works in partnership with the NYC Department of Parks & Recreation to operate and activate The Battery, the 25-acre public park located at the southern tip of Manhattan. The Battery is at the forefront of sustainable urban park planning and organic horticulture. Since 1994 TBC has spearheaded the park’s transformation from a dilapidated and rundown dustbowl into a vibrant public garden and outdoor oasis.

TBC offers educational programming that every year engages approximately 6000 elementary, middle, and high school students in hands-on experiences in the perennial gardens, urban farm and throughout the park. Farm produce is used during educational programming. Surplus is donated to selected non-profit organizations.

The Educator position is part-time and seasonal through October 31.  Applicants should be comfortable working outdoors with students of various ages and diverse backgrounds.  Educators will assist with leading educational programs throughout The Battery and with general maintenance in the gardens.

Schedule:  April 23 – October 31 (with some flexibility on start date)

• Includes one week of training
• Options of 16, 28 or 34 hours each week (Tuesday-Friday or Tuesday-Saturday; exact schedule to be determined during interview process)
• Potential for additional shifts throughout the season
• Shift in workday for major TBC events, to be determined

Responsibilities:

• Lead lessons, tours, hands-on activities, and other programming for visiting classes, families, and volunteers
• Organize, maintain, and prepare lesson materials
• Lead groups through all aspects of farm maintenance: planting, harvesting, weeding, composting, cooking, and more
• When classes are not in session, assist with park and garden tasks
• Serve as a friendly ambassador for The Battery
• Assist in other tasks, such as staffing events for The Battery Conservancy

Qualifications:

• Availability as detailed above
• Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in a related field, or related experience in youth education and/or park and garden work
• Experience leading inquiry-based, hands-on activities for students K-12 in all weather conditions
• Creativity and initiative with strong communication and organizational skills
• A passion for science, art, and outdoor education
• Ability to crouch, bend, squat, use hand tools such as shovels and rakes, and lift up to 40lbs
• Ability to work in all weather conditions
• English fluency required, additional languages encouraged

Compensation: $25/hr

To Apply:  Please send a cover letter and resume to positions@thebattery.org, with “Educator” in the subject line.  The letter should include details of your availability and an explanation of your relevant experience.  Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.  No phone calls please.  The Battery Conservancy is an equal opportunity employer.