Powdermill Nature Camp Educator, Temporary

Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh•Ligonier Township, PA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

Powdermill Field Station and Nature Reserve is Carnegie Museum of Natural History's research station and environmental education center, located approximately one hour southeast of Pittsburgh in the beautiful Laurel Highlands region. Powdermill encompasses 2200 acres where scientists conduct an array of biological research and where the public can enjoy miles of hiking trails, exhibits, and camps and classes. Carnegie Museums is interested in candidates who, through their experience and collaborations, will contribute to diversity and excellence of the Carnegie Museums community. This is a Temporary position. Please scroll to the bottom of this page to see information on the starting pay rate. Powdermill Nature Camp Educators work collaboratively with Powdermill staff to conduct summer day camp programs at Powdermill Nature Reserve (PNR). This position emphasizes relationship-building and requires prompt, friendly, accurate communication with program participants and coworkers. Weekend work may be required. This position is responsible for leading instruction, planning educational experiences based on lesson plans and other resources provided by PNR Education staff, and working collaboratively with a team of educators, assistants, and volunteers to deliver effective, engaging, and safe learning experiences. Powdermill Nature Camp Educators will give and receive constructive criticism with the goal of developing their pedagogy skills and the quality of educational experiences. This will be facilitated by participation in professional development structured by PNR program leaders. This is a temporary position expected to run from June 15, 2026, to July 31, 2026.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
1 year of professional experience in a relevant field
Demonstrated aptitude for creativity, curiosity, passion, enthusiasm, integrity, and a strong professional ethic
Passion for/interest in science and nature
Willingness to be open and respectful of all backgrounds.
This position requires energetic and charismatic individuals who are interested in helping children experience nature first-hand in a welcoming, safe, and scientific learning environment.
Candidates must have prior experience working with young people and/or adults in an educational capacity.
First aid and CPR certification is required and can be obtained through Carnegie Museums after hiring.
This position requires constant mobility around the Nature Center, and outdoors on and off trails for several hours at a time.
If the person is not able to bend or lift items of 20 – 50 lbs., they must be willing to ask for assistance performing tasks that require these actions.
Candidates will be considered qualified if they can perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.
Summer camp staff must have availability to work Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:00pm.
The following PA Act 153 clearances, or proof of application of clearances, are required beginning employment and as a condition of continued employment: Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check FBI Fingerprint Criminal Background Check Obtaining the required clearances is completed as part of the new hire process.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in environmental education, K-12 education, natural sciences, or related field
For candidates with professional experience in education, knowledge of best practices in teaching in outdoor settings, guiding student-directed inquiry, experience with positive behavior support systems, and co-teaching is preferred
For candidates with professional experience in natural sciences or related field, experience with hands-on learning and public engagement in outdoor settings is preferred

Responsibilities

Assisting in execution of overall camp program strategy
Acting as advocate for and model of Powdermill Nature Reserve’s summer camp vision, prioritizing safety at all times.
Motivating teammates to assure program quality and excellent customer service.
Leading instruction
Working collaboratively with a team of educators, assistants, and volunteers to deliver effective, engaging, and safe learning experiences.
Applying knowledge of best practices to create welcoming, age-appropriate spaces where participants feel cared for and are excited to learn about science, nature and one another.
Designing and defining clear goals and creating opportunities for learners to receive feedback on progress towards goals.
Using a variety of strategies that engage diverse learners, including best practices for accessibility.
Planning educational experiences based on resources provided by PNR staff
Adapting lesson plans from existing resources.
Coordinating with staff and volunteers to ensure that learning spaces and materials are prepared and returned before/after each program.
Coordinating with staff and volunteers to ensure that participants are greeted upon arrival and know what to do to get the program started.
Supporting efforts to create a safe environment for all people, facilities, and natural resources
Following established procedures for safety, security, custodial, visitor service, and maintenance procedures. This includes providing clear safety expectations for participants in the context of educational activities.
Using appropriate procedures in emergency situations.
Using appropriate reporting procedures for incidents and unexpected situations.
Ensuring that impact of educational activities on museum collections and exhibitions is minimized.
Ensuring that environmental impact of educational activities is minimized.
Additional responsibilities may be assigned on a case by case basis.