Primary Objective

The seasonal Environmental Educator reports to the Manager of Environmental Education and collaborates with the Delaware Center for the Inland Bays (Center) staff and volunteers to develop and deliver hands-on, science-based lessons and interactive programs. This role engages diverse audiences — including youth, families, and community members — through programs offered at the James Farm Ecological Preserve (Preserve) and at off-site locations such as K–12 schools, community centers, and local events, fostering stewardship and appreciation for the Inland Bays watershed.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

• Collaborate with staff and volunteers to design, instruct, and evaluate engaging environmental education programs for youth and adults at the Preserve and offsite (e.g., public & private schools, daycares, homeschool groups, community centers, etc.). 
• Coordinate and promote public education programs, ensuring effective scheduling, materials preparation, and outreach to target audiences.
• Assist with maintaining education program records—including participant registration and waivers—and track reporting metrics; support management of educational supplies to ensure accurate documentation and consistent availability of materials.
• Support external communications by creating and distributing educational content, promotional materials (e.g., flyers), and program announcements across multiple platforms including social media & website.
• Represent the Center at community events, festivals, and outreach activities (e.g., Water Family Fest & Native Plant Sale), providing educational content and interactive experiences for the public.
• Assist staff in hosting educational program(s) or events featuring a traveling exhibit at the Preserve, including setup and breakdown, exhibit maintenance, visitor engagement, and overall program support.
• Conduct other tasks as assigned by the Manager of Environmental Education, Director of Outreach & Education, or the Executive Director. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Completed (or currently pursuing) a 2 or 4-year degree in environmental science, biology, education, or a related field. In lieu of a degree, consideration will also be given to individuals with a certificate in a related field and/or a minimum of 1-year experience in the field of experiential education. 
• Strong passion for environmental/science education (knowledge of native species, watershed science, and experiential learning practices is a plus). 
• Comfort working with a wide range of age groups, including youth and adults, in both outdoor and indoor settings.
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and community partners.
• Experience coordinating and delivering interactive activities (e.g., outdoor programs, classroom presentations, interpretive tours) for youth and adults. 
• Adept at translating scientific & technical information to multiple audiences. 
• Strong public speaking skills. 
• Experience creating content for social media or other digital platforms.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Canva, and Google software. 
• Flexibility and adaptability to meet the needs of varied programs, events, and changing conditions.

Additional Requirements

• Successful completion of a Delaware Criminal Background Check and Child Protection Registry Check prior to hire.
• Adherence to the Center’s youth safety guidelines and mandatory reporting requirements when working with minors.
• CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain training (the Center may provide training or reimburse certification).
• Valid driver’s license and the ability to travel to off-site program locations throughout the Inland Bays watershed.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Work for this position occurs primarily outdoors at the James Farm Ecological Preserve, with additional duties at the Indian River Inlet office, community centers, and K–12 schools throughout the Inland Bays watershed. Outdoor fieldwork is a substantial part of this role and will involve exposure to variable weather conditions and environments.

Field assignments may require bending, climbing, crawling, kneeling, lifting up to 25 pounds, pulling, reaching, standing, sitting, stooping, walking on uneven or rough terrain, and wading into water up to the waist. Appropriate clothing and safety precautions are required.

This position requires the ability to travel to off-site program locations as needed.
A flexible schedule is essential, with availability during peak programming seasons, and some evening and weekend work should be expected.

Limited weekly telework is permitted for planning and administrative tasks; the core responsibilities of the position must be performed on-site or in the field.  The position is subject to the Center’s Employee Handbook.

Salary Range and Benefits

Compensation for this position is $18 per hour. As a part-time, seasonal role, this position is not benefits-eligible.

Additional details can be found on the Center's website: inlandbays.org/employment