Teacher Naturalist

Location: Yorklyn

Position:
Teacher Naturalist - (part-time/hourly, non-exempt)
Site:
Ashland Nature Center, Coverdale Farm Preserve, Abbott’s Mill Nature Center and/or DuPont Environmental Education Center.

Schedule:

Varied Schedule, day, nights, and weekends based on season and program offerings by site

Date:
March, 2025

Mission Founded in 1964, the Delaware Nature Society (Del Nature) 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. Del Nature 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.

Del Nature 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 Teacher Naturalists assist in delivery of environmental, agricultural and cultural education lessons for children, adults and families from schools, Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, community and recreation centers, faith-based groups, professional organizations, other groups, and the general public. Lessons may include field studies, outreach, overnights and extended days, seasonal programs, summer camps, or other activities and may be held inside or outdoors in all weather conditions.

Scheduling is highly flexible and can include weekdays, weekends, daytime. or evening hours throughout the year. There is no minimum hour requirement and hours will vary seasonally. Training is provided. Experienced educators and individuals with a love of nature and the outdoors, and interested in sharing that passion with others, are encouraged to apply.

The Teacher Naturalist reports to:
Education/Program Coordinator or Manager Responsibilities Teach  environmental, farm-based agro-ecology, and cultural/historical education lessons to groups of people (preschool through adult).Assist with program preparation and clean-up and handling of program materials, equipment and animals with care and resourcefulness.

Support the development of further educational programs as requested.

Attend appropriate instructor-training workshops.

Promote Del Nature’s mission, goals, activities, events, and membership

Work Environment and Physical Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The employee frequently is required to sit and reach and must be able to move around the work environment.

The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to twenty pounds and be able to carry, move and set up necessary supplies and equipment.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust.

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Ability to work in a variety of indoor and/or outdoor settings, weather, and terrains.

Salary and Compensation (part-time/hourly, non-exempt, or seasonal)
Starting hourly rate - $15-$19/Hour based on knowledge, skills and experience.

Qualifications and Experience Teaching experience or experience working with children

Natural sciences knowledge and/or an interested in the natural world

Outdoor recreation skills and experience (canoeing/kayaking, hiking, camping)
Ability to work effectively and productively as part of a team Flexibility and adaptability to work a schedule that meets the needs of the site

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY – Delaware Nature Society considers candidates for all positions on the basis of qualifications and without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, genetic information, age, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, marital status, or status as a Vietnam-era or special disabled veteran or other protected classification and in accordance with applicable federal, state & local laws.
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