Director of Education

Description

Turn Your Passion for the Outdoors into a Career

ABOUT US

Do you come alive on the trail? Love hiking, birdwatching, camping, or simply spending your days surrounded by nature? If the idea of wearing hiking boots to work, spotting wildlife during your lunch break, and being part of a collaborative, mission-driven team excites you, then Boyce Thompson Arboretum may be the perfect place for you.

Founded in 1924 by mining pioneer William Boyce Thompson, Boyce Thompson Arboretum is Arizona's oldest and largest botanical garden. Situated on 374 breathtaking acres at the base of Picket Post Mountain and bordering the Tonto National Forest in Superior, Arizona, the Arboretum offers a truly unique work environment unlike any other.

Our living collection showcases extraordinary plants from the world's deserts and arid regions alongside the native beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Every day brings opportunities to experience nature firsthand, with miles of scenic trails, spectacular mountain views, and abundant wildlife throughout the grounds. It's not unusual to encounter javelina, bobcats, roadrunners, hummingbirds, and a variety of native and migratory birds while working and exploring the Arboretum.

As an independent nonprofit organization, we're united by a shared passion for conservation, education, horticulture, and creating meaningful experiences for our visitors. We value teamwork, stewardship, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

Located just 30 minutes from Mesa and one hour from downtown Phoenix, Boyce Thompson Arboretum offers the opportunity to build a rewarding career while enjoying the beauty, adventure, and tranquility of the Arizona outdoors.

If you're looking for more than just a job—and want to be part of a community that inspires connection with nature every day,we'd love to hear from you.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Director of Education provides strategic direction and leadership for the Education Department. The incumbent works in partnership with the Copper Corridor Community to develop STEM education programs that are based in the Arboretum’s mission to increase engagement with children that increase awareness about the ecosystem that they reside in. In addition, the Director of Education oversees onsite educational programming and volunteer engagement activities that provide visitors with opportunities to engage with the Arboretum’s mission and goals.

Responsibilities include development of programs for children, families, school groups, homeschool groups, adult learners, and general visitor engagement, including interpretation. The ideal candidate will be knowledgeable about desert ecology, informal education, curriculum development, and enjoy working with community partners.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Engage with community partners to develop curriculum and programs that benefit Copper Corridor schools.
• Guide and manage strategic growth for the Education Department, including the development of education and outreach programs and uses of learning spaces on-site.
• Lead Education staff in developing programs that support the Arboretum’s mission and goals. This includes designing and implementing inquiry-based, student-centered curricula and programs for elementary, middle, and high school students aligned with the Arizona Science Standards and Next Generation Science Standards, as well as community outreach and on‑site visitor experiences.
• Develop and oversee the Education Department budget, including reporting of grant and donor-restricted funds.
• Participate in fund‑raising and grant‑writing activities that benefit education programs.
• Directly supervise education staff and provide direction for onsite educational programming, school programs and outreach, field…