Field Teacher - Paddle Program Lead

Mass Audubon•Cambridge, MA

2d•$21 - $24

About The Position

We are looking for an educator who is enthusiastic about working with people of all ages, highly motivated, loves to be outdoors, is dedicated to environmental education and deeply committed to equity in access to nature. Paddle Program Lead Field Teachers work with Mass Audubon Education Coordinators to develop and implement hands-on, nature-based programming for youth, community groups, and families who visit Magazine Beach Park Nature Center, promoting Mass Audubon’s mission of protecting the nature of Massachusetts for wildlife and people. The ideal candidate will also support Mass Audubon’s commitment to climate change education, equity, and justice and bring a diverse range of experiences, expressions, and views to their work.   This position’s focus will be on Paddle for Empowerment, a kayaking program that offers 80 kayaking trips to over 1,500 individuals. They will be the day-of program coordinator and lead paddler instructor.

Requirements

Passion for natural history, environmental education and/or science education
Experience as an educator, working with a variety of audiences, including school groups (preK-12) community groups, and/or families in inquiry-based teaching and learning
Strong organizational, time management, oral, and written communication skills
Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills
Skills and ability to work with diverse groups, exercise cultural humility, and implement best practices in inclusion
Demonstrate a positive attitude and work collaboratively, as a positive contributor to the team
Proficiency in standard business software, such as Microsoft Office or G Suite
Must be American Red Cross Lifeguard or Small Craft Safety and Basic Water Rescue certified or willing to certify upon hire

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s Degree in process or completed, preferably in education, biology, environmental sciences, or related field, including formal or informal
Fluency in other languages commonly spoken in Cambridge (Spanish, Amharic, Haitian Kreyòl, Portuguese, Chinese or other)
Local to the community of Cambridge

Responsibilities

Ensure kayaks and gear are at the program location on-time and are in working condition
Communicate with program partners to confirm program details
Greet partner groups and create an approachable and exciting atmosphere that encourages participants to go paddling
Lead Paddle safety talk at the beginning of each program
Work with co-leaders to ensure participants are properly fitted with PFDs and paddles and are informed on the expectations of the program, creating space for participants to set their own goals for their experience
Perform paddling assists and rescues as needed while on the water
Work with evaluation team to facilitate program evaluation and participant feedback
During Magazine Beach Park Nature Center drop-in hours, develop a nature engagement display that will encourage park visitors to connect with the nature of the park
Facilitate/lead groups of 10-15 program participants in hands-on, outdoor, nature-based learning experiences
Work with Education Coordinators to develop and deliver nature-based educational programs for community groups and families
Actively welcome park visitors to the Nature Center
Monitor program participants in all types of outdoor environments and ensure the safety and comfort of all participants
Maintain a professional work environment, which includes equipment cleanup, facility cleaning, and storage of program gear and materials
Participate in Field Teacher trainings and professional development opportunities
Convey Mass Audubon’s mission, Action Agenda and educational philosophies throughout all programs