Temporary Nature Center Educator Assistant (Outreach)

County of Mecklenburg, NC•Huntersville, NC

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation is hiring temporary, part-time Nature Center Education Assistants for the MeckWILD nature outreach program. MeckWILD aims to expand outdoor education in target communities and connect residents with nature through discovery-centered programming. Positions are based at Quest Nature Center and operate part-time seasonally through June 2027. Schedules include weekends and depend on business needs. Selected candidates conduct environmental and interpretive programs for diverse audiences and lead outreach activities at special events, community recreation centers, and parks throughout Mecklenburg County. The role also supports nature center and historic site education, programming, facility operations, and outreach. Employees work as part of a team across the county’s nature centers and historic sites and follow the supervisor’s work plan. The position involves outdoor work exposed to weather conditions.

Requirements

No prior experience required.
Must be enrolled in or have completed a bachelor's degree program in natural or environmental sciences, biology, botany, ecology, environmental education, education, social studies/civics, or a related field; a combination of relevant experience and education is accepted.
General knowledge of applicable computer programs.
Knowledge of educational programming and instruction in the assigned area.
Skill in managing multiple tasks concurrently.
Skill in developing and enforcing classroom rules and safety procedures.
Skill in organizing and presenting demonstrations in an area of specialization.
Ability to build partnerships and strategic relationships across areas, teams, departments, units, or organizations.
Ability to interact in ways that build trust and confidence.
Ability to meet customer needs and build productive customer relationships.
Ability to maintain activity and productivity over extended periods.
Ability to communicate clearly to individuals or groups through varied media and engage audiences.
Ability to take prompt, proactive action to accomplish objectives.
Ability to manage time and resources and follow through efficiently.
May require a valid North Carolina or South Carolina driver’s license and County Driving Privileges.

Nice To Haves

Experience in public outreach, environmental interpretation, and/or outdoor recreation programming.
Knowledge of the flora and fauna of North Carolina’s Piedmont region.

Responsibilities

Conduct and/or assist in developing environmental and historic education and interpretive programs for all ages and diverse audiences, including facility tours, school programs, summer camps, public lectures, special events, outreach programs, live animal programs, and outdoor field experiences.
Lead MeckWILD outreach programming at special events, community recreation centers, and parks throughout Mecklenburg County.
Maintain program props, interpretive displays, native plant gardens, and demonstration compost areas.
Assist with planning and implementing teacher workshops and special events.
Assist with developing educational exhibits, interpretive brochures, and other educational materials.
May assist with care and feeding of exhibit animals.
Assist with nature center or historic site operations, gift shop, program registration, and facility maintenance.
May assist with Outdoor Recreation programming as needed.
Maintain general housekeeping in the work area.
May coordinate volunteer efforts.
Work as part of a team of program staff at Mecklenburg County nature centers and historic sites.
Follow the work plan prepared by the supervisor.
Respond to emergency situations.