Mission

Founded in 1964, the Delaware Nature Society (DelNature) is a state-wide, non-profit organization that aspires to be inclusive and multicultural, celebrating the rich dimensions of diversity in nature and people. Our mission is to connect people and nature to create a healthy environment for all, through education, conservation, and advocacy. DelNature delivers hands-on environmental education and conservation programs at four sites: Ashland Nature Center (HQ), in Hockessin, DE; DuPont Environmental Education Center, in Wilmington, DE; Coverdale Farm Preserve, in Greenville, DE; and Abbott’s Mill Nature Center, in Milford, DE. At these and other sites, we also manage over 2,000 acres of land, including four nature preserves. DelNature is a state affiliate of the National Wildlife Federation. We envision Delaware as a place where people view themselves as part of nature and understand that nature is essential for life; recognize the immediacy of addressing environmental issues; and take pride and joy in caring for the natural world.

Position Summary

The Ashland Program Coordinator reports to: Director of School and Group Programs

Coordinates delivery of field study, outreach, and overnight environmental education experiences for school and group audiences at Ashland Nature Center and other sites utilized by Delaware Nature Society. Assists with the delivery and day-to-day coordination of summer camp experiences for Ashland Nature Center. Provides support for recruitment, training, scheduling, supervision and evaluation of part-time paid and volunteer instructional staff. Supports the development of new programs and activities and ensures program quality and continuity.

Responsibilities

• Teach environmental education programs for school and group audiences, summer camp, and the general public.
• Coordinate day-to-day activities for school and group audiences at Ashland Nature Center and DuPont Environmental Education Center including program instruction, delivery, materials, equipment, and supplies.
• Coordinate staffing for school and group field study, outreach, and overnight experiences at Ashland and DEEC, and secure instructors to lead education programs.
• Communicate with education staff about Teacher Naturalist and volunteer instructors’ schedules and needs.
• Collaborate with education staff and provide support for recruitment, training, and evaluation of part-time & seasonal instructors, volunteers, and interns.
• Support development of educational programs for schools, scouts, community groups, and the general public.
• Support summer camp staff with all aspects of camp during twelve weeks of summer camp programming, including activity programs, van trips, supervision of campers and camp assistants/instructors, assessing camper adjustment, experience, and program.
• Provide a safe and warm environment to facilitate the social and emotional health and growth of all children in DelNature programs.
• Assist with, participate in, and support organization-wide events and programs and other site programs as available.
• Promote & support DelNature’s mission, values, goals, activities, and membership to a wide array of program audiences. 

Qualifications, and Experience

• Commitment to and passion for the mission of Delaware Nature Society. 
• Experience creating, developing, coordinating, and delivering programming for groups of children.
• Teaching experience or experience working with children in a non-traditional setting.
• Degree in a field pertaining to the environment, agriculture, science, wildlife, or education.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors under variable weather conditions and terrain.
• Outdoor recreation skills and experience (canoeing/kayaking, hiking, camping)
• Excellent communication skills with ease and enthusiasm for talking to individuals of all ages.
• Flexibility and adaptability to work a schedule that meets the needs of the site, including weekends and evenings as required. 
• Punctuality, dependability, effective communication skills, and ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Ability to consistently interact in a positive and professional manner.
• Willingness to learn new skills and share knowledge with others.
• Demonstrated ability to solve problems, think critically, and make decisions.
• Perform additional duties at the request of supervisor, site manager, or leadership team member.

Work Schedule

This is a full-time non-exempt hourly position. The position has a varied schedule based on program scheduling. Flexibility to attend evening and/or weekend meetings, programs and/or events is required.