Educator Environmental & Animal Care Assistant

Job Details:

Job Location:

Norwell, MA 02061, Salary Range: $19.00 - $21.00 Hourly, The Environmental Educator & Animal Care Assistant is a key member of the Nature Center team, splitting their time equally between the Environmental Education and Animal Care departments. This mission-driven role is dedicated to educating, engaging, and inspiring the next generation to protect the environment while promoting responsible use, stewardship, and enjoyment of natural resources.

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. At the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and make a difference. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world.

We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.

• Demonstrate strong communication, organization, planning, ability to work both independently & collaboratively, as well as time management to complete tasks for both the Animal Care and Environmental Education teams.
• Maintain clean, safe, and organized animal care and educational environments, both indoors and outside.
• Responsible for reviewing all guidelines for emergency procedures to ensure a prompt and appropriate response to any incident.
• Perform additional duties as assigned supervisors.

• Collaborate with Nature Center teams to plan, develop, and deliver engaging programs that align with the Nature Center’s mission and meet the needs of diverse audiences, including visitors, school groups, after school programs, scout troops, summer camps, etc.
• Assist and lead programs both onsite at the Nature Center and offsite at schools, community locations, and partner organizations.
• Design, implement, and continuously improve curriculum, lesson plans, interpretive exhibits, and educational materials.
• Utilize and help maintain indoor and outdoor learning environments, including forests, wetlands, gardens, and indoor spaces ensuring they remain safe, organized, and engaging for participants.
• Support the ongoing growth and visibility of the Nature Center by contributing to new programs and outreach efforts.

• Under the supervision of Lead Animal Care Specialist, ensure the safe and effective care of all animals in accordance with policies established by the South Shore YMCA Nature Center, including Animal Care emergency action plans, handling procedures, and cleaning guidelines.
• Assist the Animal Care team with routine operations, including but not limited to feedings, habitat/tank cleaning, and enrichment activities for all animals (primarily reptiles, chickens, and birds of prey).
• Support educational programming by incorporating animal ambassadors in a safe, appropriate, and engaging manner.
• Accurately document and communicate all completed tasks (e.g., feedings, cleanings, enrichment) in each animal’s log, and promptly report any concerns, changes in behavior, or issues to the Lead Animal Care Specialist.
• Monitor inventory levels and notify the Lead Animal Care Specialist when supplies are low or need replenishment.
• Respond to incidents calmly, professionally, and in accordance with established procedures.
• Identify and report faulty equipment or maintenance concerns in a timely manner to Lead Animal Care Specialist.

This is a part-time position (up to 29.5 hours/week, based on program needs), requiring a flexible…