Lead Environmental Educator

Nelda C And H J Lutcher Stark Foundation•Orange, TX

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

Under the guidance of the Associate Director, this position advances science-based education through outreach lessons, onsite curriculum-based field trips, virtual programming, community events, and teacher trainings. This position is the lead educator for all education programs, supported by the other twelve members of The Shangri La Gardens' Education Team. As a working supervisor, the Lead Educator supervises and oversees employees within the Education Department, ensuring compliance with the Stark Foundation's policies, procedures, and relevant State and Federal regulations. Key responsibilities include interviewing and training staff, planning and assigning tasks, monitoring and directing daily work activities, providing coaching and feedback, and addressing any employee concerns or complaints. Effectively manages performance-related issues and resolves conflicts in a timely and appropriate manner.

Requirements

Five years of environmental education experience with an emphasis on environmental education, preferably at a nature center or botanical garden.
Experience in developing, coordinating, implementing and evaluating educational programming; including training and retention
Bachelor's degree (B.S.) in Environmental Education or similar field is required
Current Texas or Louisiana teaching certification required
Ability to work with diverse groups of individuals.
Must be a team player able to work comfortably and effectively in cross-functional teams.
Must demonstrate good clear communication skills, both verbally and written, in English and must able to understand spoken communications.
Valid Driver's License and good driving record
Ability to devise and carry out education programs, including preparation and use of publications and exhibits
Ability to apply environmental education techniques and resources as appropriate
Knowledge of pedagogy and practical applications, including, but not limited to the learning characteristics of students and adults knowledge of the objectives, curricula, and operation of schools and other educational institutions knowledge of education (specifically outdoor science education) and evaluation methods
Skill in oral and written communication techniques for appropriate education levels and objectives
Skill in using research techniques
Ability to keep accurate and detailed records
Ability to enter data into the computer and be able to retrieve information by computer.
Ability to manage a variety of tasks and to plan, implement and prioritize workloads
Knowledge of emergency evacuation; First Aid training
Strong computer skills in Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Office Applications, the internet, and desktop publishing

Nice To Haves

Master's degree (M.S.) in education or science field preferred.

Responsibilities

Facilitate programming in a variety of settings, including Shangri La Gardens and other outdoor spaces, in classrooms/labs, and virtually when appropriate
Under the direction of the Associate Director, plan, develop, and implement educational and interpretive programs and services to meet the changing needs of diverse audiences.
Facilitate the design and implementation of programs using best practices in youth development and education pedagogies
Assist the Associate Director with evaluating and assessing program effectiveness
Help plan, develop, and manage budgets and budget projections for education and public programs
Monitor and assess the effectiveness of all educational programming
Act as a liaison with schools and community groups to coordinate educational programs
Support the planning and execution of activities for annual events, including Trash-Off, Eco-Fest, Autumn Fair, and Dreaming of a Green Christmas
Provide guidance and support to education staff, ensuring they meet professional and ethical standards in their work
Ensure that work undertaken by the education staff meets the highest ethical and professional standards
Develop and support the capabilities of education staff members, enhancing exceptional ability and maintaining accountability
Collaborate with other Shangri La departments as well as colleagues at other Stark Cultural Venues for event and program planning, contributing to a cooperative and efficient working environment
Serve as Manager on Duty on a regularly scheduled basis
Other duties as may be assigned
Interviewing and training staff
Planning and assigning tasks
Monitoring and directing daily work activities
Providing coaching and feedback
Addressing any employee concerns or complaints
Managing performance-related issues
Resolving conflicts in a timely and appropriate manner
Contribute to creating high-quality environmental education program at Shangri La Gardens
Support Foundation's goals and values; display passion and optimism; inspire others to fulfill the vision of Shangri La Gardens
Assist in the development and training of staff and volunteers to help them meet expectations.
Provide friendly, professional, and timely service to visitors, vendors, volunteers and co-workers
Engage in open communication, contributing to a positive team spirit and fostering group commitment to shared goals
Stay within approved budget and follow policies and procedures for administrative tasks
Adhere to safety procedures and report any unsafe conditions to ensure a safe working environment for all