Individual Placement - Outdoor Educator

Taconic Outdoor Education Center is a 250-acre, reservation-only facility, part of the Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park Complex. As an Outdoor Educator for TOEC the SCA member will work with other education staff members to provide educational and recreational programs to schools, civic and public groups. Examples of lesson topics include Project Adventure team-building (including low and high ropes), mammal studies, ecology, and more.

SCA members will shadow and train with educators until they are comfortable leading their own lessons. When no visitor groups are present at TOEC, SCA members will also conduct outdoor educational outreach offsite to the public in Clarence Fahnestock State Park. During their service period there will be time to pursue their own projects and work independently to expand their knowledge in the field.

At TOEC SCA educators and staff educators are peers. We want you to be able to improve and gain value from your time with us. While you will be expected to lead groups as an educator, we will also provide you time for professional development as well as your SCA duties.

The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and adults. Program participants protect and restore national parks, national forests, wildlife refuges, marine sanctuaries, landmarks, community green spaces, and much more across the country.

The SCA New York partners with state agencies and non-profit organizations across the state of New York. SCA New York members serve in 10‑month positions alongside conservation professionals, engaging in conservation stewardship projects and education services for the general public.

Cold Spring, NY

• This position is primarily in a front country setting where emergency services are accessible, but may be delayed by 1-2 hours. SCA Members regularly interact with members of the public. Access to public transportation at work site is limited or not possible. Cell phone reception maybe limited, spotty, or not available.
• This position may conduct work in a front country setting where emergency services are accessible, but may be delayed by 1-2 hours. Access to public transportation at work site is limited or not possible.
  
  Cell phone reception is limited, spotty, or not available.
• This position may conduct work in an urban setting where emergency services, public transportation, and cell phone reception are readily accessible. Interactions with members of the public are regular and frequent.

January 25, 2027 - November 19, 2027

• Plan and teach education, and project adventure lessons to user groups
• Provide public educational outreach to park users in Clarence Fahnestock State Park
• Help with facility upkeep as needed
• Take initiative to learn and grow in the education field
• Be willing to learn new skills and be open to different experiences to provide education to user groups
• Adapt teaching strategies for students with different learning styles and needs
• Communicate clearly and respectfully
• Collaborate with your coworkers in a professional and productive manner
• Approach each group with a desire to provide an enjoyable and educational outdoor experience

• Be open to receiving constructive feedback to genuinely grow and improve your abilities in the education field
• Be willing to work outdoors in all elements (snow, rain, heat, cold, etc.)

• Member Evaluation: A Mid-term evaluation will be completed by site supervisor at the mid-point of a members’ term of service. An End of Term evaluation will be completed by site supervisor at the members’ end of service.
• Reporting Requirements:
  Members are required to submit timesheets…