Education/Interpretive Program Coordinator PT

El Paso County, CO•Colorado Springs, CO

42d•$18 - $19•Onsite

About The Position

Bring your love of nature and passion for working with children to life! El Paso County's Bear Creek Nature Center is looking for a creative and enthusiastic Education/Interpretive Program Coordinator who enjoys inspiring curiosity and connection with the natural world. In this role, you'll design and lead interactive educational programs and guided hikes for visitors of all ages, with a special focus on engaging and inspiring children. You'll help foster a lifelong love of nature through outdoor exploration, creative activities, and meaningful learning experiences. You'll also assist in developing interpretive exhibits, support special events, and provide welcoming customer service to ensure every visitor feels connected and inspired. We're seeking someone who is energetic, organized, and passionate about environmental education, especially with youth. The ideal candidate enjoys sharing knowledge, leading groups, and helping children discover the beauty and wonder of the outdoors. If you're driven by curiosity, creativity, and a desire to make a positive impact on the next generation, join our team and help inspire the community through nature and discovery at Bear Creek Nature Center. Hiring Range: $17.50 - $19.00 hourly. The average workday hours are flexible, 25 hours per week between Tuesday - Saturday, with core hours of 8:00 am - 4:30 pm. Weekend and evening hours will be required; schedule subject to change. The anticipated work schedule for this position is Tuesday through Saturday; however, the schedule is subject to change based on departmental priorities and community needs. This position will occasionally require work outside of the regular schedule, and flexibility is essential to meet operational demands. Please be advised this position may close without advance notice, should we receive a sufficient number of qualified applications. This position assists in providing interpretive services at El Paso County Regional Parks, such as Bear Creek Nature Center or Fountain Creek Nature Center, to promote public understanding, enjoyment, and appreciation of natural areas, interpretive programs, and parks; ensures visitors adhere to park regulations. May perform light park maintenance. Employment is subject to the terms, conditions, and policies detailed in the Personnel Policies Manual (PPM). This position requires regular in-person presence as an essential job function.

Requirements

Knowledge of regional natural and cultural history, interpretive principles, media, and techniques.
Strong understanding of the professional commitment to the position and the nature centers.
Must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Demonstrates a positive, 'can-do' attitude. Ability to provide excellent customer service.
Ability to exercise sound judgment. Must be organized and able to manage multiple priorities.
Ability to stimulate an interest in nature centers and the County parks system.
Ability to work independently on projects and programs and attain desired results.
Ability to communicate and work effectively with co-workers, volunteers, community organizations, school children, and the public.
Ability to encourage and facilitate teamwork; ability to build strong teams among a variety of stakeholders.
Ability to use various computer programs, including word processing, databases, and desktop publishing software; MS Office proficiency preferred.
Must be able to operate a variety of standard office equipment, including multi-line telephone, computer, printer, and copier.
Maintain regular and punctual attendance.
High school diploma or equivalent education.
Six months of experience related experience, such as work with interpretive/environmental education programs.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
Must pass conditional post offer background investigation, motor vehicle record check, and drug screen.
Position requires standing, walking, and hiking for extended periods of time; must be able to navigate uneven terrain and steep slopes, potentially in inclement weather.
May be required to occasionally safely lift and carry up to 30 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Associate's degree or higher in a related field may substitute for the required experience.

Responsibilities

Provides customer and public information services, including orientation to the public regarding nature programs, regional parks, and trails; greets visitors, answers inquiries, makes and receives phone calls, and directs inquiries to the appropriate location or individual(s).
Leads and takes visitors on information and educational guided group hikes.
Leads and assists with staff or volunteer-led interpretive programs and presentations.
Assists with various special projects/events on behalf of the Recreation & Cultural Services Division.
Assists in the maintenance of displays and exhibits and other nature center facilities, equipment, and materials.
Researches, designs, develops, and assembles interpretive exhibits, programs, media, and materials.
Leads programs for a wide variety of audiences, from toddlers to adults.
Leads Environmental Education programs for elementary and middle school students. Assists with the organization and presentation of nature day camps.
Works cooperatively with nature center staff to accomplish the goals and mission of the nature center. Uses generally accepted interpretation techniques.
Provides general administrative support as needed.
As assigned, performs light maintenance, such as grounds and building maintenance, trash collection, paint removal, and sign replacement.
May oversee the donation collection process
Performs other duties as required.