Nature Educator; Part-Time

Application Limit

To ensure a thorough and efficient review process, this job posting will close after the first 175 applications received. We encourage you to apply early to secure your chance of being considered.

Help people discover the wonder of the natural world through hands‑on learning. As a Nature Educator with the City of Hillsboro's Parks & Recreation Department, you'll inspire curiosity, foster environmental stewardship, and create meaningful outdoor experiences for children, families, and community members at Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve and throughout Hillsboro.

Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve is a 635‑acre wildlife preserve where education, recreation, and conservation come together. Our team creates welcoming, inclusive opportunities for people of all ages to connect with nature through engaging, place‑based learning experiences.

Working as part of a collaborative education team, you'll develop and lead interactive outdoor programs that emphasize nature exploration and feature STEAM elements, including nature‑based science, art, and engineering projects. Programs take place at Jackson Bottom, local schools, parks, community events, and other City facilities, serving audiences from preschoolers to adults.

• Lead nature‑based classes, field trips, camps, workshops, and outreach programs.
• Develop engaging lesson plans and educational activities for a variety of age groups.
• Deliver community outreach such as the Wetlands on Wheels (WOW) program.
• Support seasonal events and public programs by planning activities and preparing materials.
• Collaborate with teammates to develop new programs and share teaching responsibilities.
• Adapt programs to meet participant needs and create inclusive learning experiences.
• Assist with program logistics, participant communication, attendance records, and supply preparation.

• Develop winter and spring educational programming.
• Support Wetlands on Wheels and community partnerships throughout Hillsboro.
• Help to develop and implement field trip program.

You'll thrive in this role if you are:

• Creative, collaborative, and adaptable.
• Comfortable presenting to audiences from preschool‑age children through adults.
• An engaging communicator with strong organizational skills.
• Passionate about environmental education and inclusive learning.
• Able to think quickly and adjust programs as situations change.

For more details, please click on this link for job classification description:
Instructor II

• High school diploma or GED and some related work experience;
  or
• Any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

• An associate or bachelor’s degree in environmental studies, education, or a related field is helpful.
• Bilingual Spanish skills are preferred but not required.

• Valid driver's license with a safe driving record.
• CPR and First Aid certification (or ability to obtain within 3 months of hire).

• Typical schedule is Wednesday–Saturday, 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
• During some summer weeks, the schedule shifts to Tuesday–Friday to support camps and departmental needs.
• Evening hours may be required based on programming and special events.
• Physical activity may include lifting, setting up equipment, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Working for the City of Hillsboro means being part of a team that values community, inclusion, and meaningful public service. You'll have the opportunity to make a direct impact by helping people connect with nature and each other.

We are committed to building a workforce that reflects the community we serve and creating an environment where all employees feel welcomed and supported.