Summer Education Program Associate

Huntsville Botanical Garden • Huntsville, AL

11h • Hybrid

About The Position

Implement nature discovery programs for youth and families in the summer by using the Garden as a living classroom. Help children discover the basic botanical science concepts related to plant and animal life, interrelationships among species, and human influences on the environment, through engaging interpretive techniques and by following the education program curriculum.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in college coursework OR 1 year of experience in environmental education that provides the knowledge and ability to successfully support youth programming and camp operations.
• Must be at least 19 years of age and pass a background check
• Availability for a consistent schedule throughout the summer camp season (mid-May to mid-August)
• Must complete required training related to camp procedures, child safety, emergency protocols, and communication tools
• A commitment to, and ability to effectively convey, the Garden’s mission of connecting people with plants with a genuine passion that also embraces and exemplifies the Garden’s core values.
• Understand and communicate the Garden’s mission, vision, strategic plan, programs, and structure in a positive, constructive, and effective manner.
• Public service attitude and genuine enthusiasm for working with students and the public.
• Maintain a flexible, constructive, courteous approach to teachers, parents, children, and other staff.
• Sense of responsibility in the area of safety, including appropriate radio use and basic safety measures.
• Willingness and ability to check email and Basecamp regularly for communication with supervisors and other staff.
• Stamina and ability to lead and deliver programs outdoors in various weather conditions.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelors Degree from an accredited college or university in education, environmental science, biology, STEM, child development, recreation, nonprofit studies, or a related field with coursework or experience in ecology, botany, horticulture, biology, environmental science, general science.
• 2 years experience working or volunteering in the environmental education field (after-school programs, camps, museum, nature centers, or other youth-focused settings).
• Familiarity with informal learning environments, including outdoor education, public gardens, museums, or science centers

Responsibilities

• Assist teaching Summer STEM Camps for students ages 4-12, STEM Field Trips, family programs and Pre-K programs.
• Work with the STEM Youth Volunteer Program assisting with programs and hands-on learning.
• Guide campers on a variety of Garden trails, being alert to weather conditions, students’ level of understanding, and physical capabilities.
• Present concepts related to the Garden’s natural and horticultural areas, special exhibits and events, and plant collections by using engaging interpretive and inquiry-based teaching techniques.
• Understand and communicate the Garden’s mission, vision, strategic plan, programs, and structure in a positive, constructive, and effective manner.
• Participate in required training sessions, mentoring assignments, staff meetings, planning sessions, and guide meetings.
• Assist in the daily clean up and set up of programs as needed and performs other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees