After School Teacher and Conservation Educator

After school Teacher and Conservation Educator

Eco Adventures is seeking an enthusiastic, dependable, and energetic after‑school Childcare Program Staff Member to join our growing team. This role supports after‑school, camp, school, and special event programs while helping create a safe, fun, and enriching experience for children.

Our program combines childcare, education, creativity, and animal experiences in a unique environment where children learn through exploration, play, and hands‑on activities. No prior animal handling experience is required for this position.

We are currently looking to hire either:

• One full‑time team member who can support both childcare and educational programming.
• Two part‑time team members: one focused on education/programming and another focused on after‑school childcare only (12:00–6:30 M‑F).

Childcare Program Teacher/Staff are responsible for supervising and engaging children in a safe and supportive environment while assisting with daily activities, transitions, enrichment programs, and animal‑related educational experiences.

Staff members maintain structure, ensure safety, build positive relationships with children and families, and help create memorable experiences for participants. While animal handling is not required, staff who wish to learn may receive training to assist with animal interactions and educational programs.

• Supervise groups of children during after‑school care, camps, special events, and activities.
• Lead and assist with games, crafts, STEM activities, outdoor play, and themed programming.
• Support children during transitions, snack time, homework time, and group activities.
• Maintain a safe, organized, and positive environment at all times.
• Assist with set‑up, clean‑up, and organization of program materials and activity spaces.
• Communicate professionally with parents, caregivers, and coworkers.
• Help enforce behavior expectations using positive guidance techniques.
• Support animal‑based educational activities and experiences as needed.
• Ensure all program spaces remain clean, safe, and ready for participants.
• Follow all safety, emergency, and childcare procedures.
• Assist the Child Care Assistant Director with development and preparation of program materials.

• Conduct educational programs that may include outreach programs, school field trips, scout programs, homeschool classes, camps, fairs, special events, outdoor environmental education programs, after‑school programs, and private tours.
• Safely present ambassador animals during programs while delivering engaging and age‑appropriate educational content.
• Plan and prepare materials for educational programming when needed.
• Promote conservation awareness and environmentally responsible practices through educational interactions.

• Assist with general operational tasks such as customer service, answering phones, program preparation, event setup and cleanup, facility chores, and administrative support as needed.
• Safely transport children, animals, and program materials using a company vehicle (15‑passenger van or minivan). A clean driving record is required; training will be provided.
• Represent Eco Adventures professionally and positively when interacting with staff, volunteers, and the public.
• Assist in training new staff members or volunteers as needed.
• Participate in team meetings, trainings, and special events.

Required:

• Valid Maryland driver’s license, a clean driving record, and reliable transportation.
• Experience working with children in childcare, camp, education, recreation, or similar settings.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage groups of children in an active environment.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Flexible and adaptable with changes to curriculum or daily schedules, and capable of problem‑solving quickly.
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced, hands‑on environment.
• Must pass a background check.
• Willingness to work in an environment around animals, including reptiles, amphibians, birds, insects/arachnids, and mammals.
• Ability to stand,…