Lead Environmental Educator

EOE Statement We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Job Summary: Under the guidance of the Associate Director, this position advances science-based education through outreach lessons, onsite curriculum-based field trips, virtual programming, community events, and teacher trainings. This position is the lead educator for all education programs, supported by the other twelve members of The Shangri La Gardens' Education Team.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Facilitate programming in a variety of settings, including Shangri La Gardens and other outdoor spaces, in classrooms/labs, and virtually when appropriate
• Under the direction of the Associate Director, plan, develop, and implement educational and interpretive programs and services to meet the changing needs of diverse audiences.
• Facilitate the design and implementation of programs using best practices in youth development and education pedagogies
• Assist the Associate Director with evaluating and assessing program effectiveness
• Help plan, develop, and manage budgets and budget projections for education and public programs
• Monitor and assess the effectiveness of all educational programming
• Act as a liaison with schools and community groups to coordinate educational programs
• Support the planning and execution of activities for annual events, including Trash-Off, Eco-Fest, Autumn Fair, and Dreaming of a Green Christmas
• Provide guidance and support to education staff, ensuring they meet professional and ethical standards in their work
• Ensure that work undertaken by the education staff meets the highest ethical and professional standards
• Develop and support the capabilities of education staff members, enhancing exceptional ability and maintaining accountability
• Collaborate with other Shangri La departments as well as colleagues at other Stark Cultural Venues for event and program planning, contributing to a cooperative and efficient working environment
• Serve as Manager on Duty on a regularly scheduled basis
• Other duties as may be assigned

Supervisory Responsibilities:

As a working supervisor, the Lead Educator supervises and oversees employees within the Education Department, ensuring compliance with the Stark Foundation's policies, procedures, and relevant State and Federal regulations. Key responsibilities include interviewing and training staff, planning and assigning tasks, monitoring and directing daily work activities, providing coaching and feedback, and addressing any employee concerns or complaints. Effectively manages performance-related issues and resolves conflicts in a timely and appropriate manner.

Expectations:

• Contribute to creating high-quality environmental education program at Shangri La Gardens
• Support Foundation's goals and values; display passion and optimism; inspire others to fulfill the vision of Shangri La Gardens
• Assist in the development and training of staff and volunteers to help them meet expectations.
• Provide friendly, professional, and timely service to visitors, vendors, volunteers and co-workers
• Engage in open communication, contributing to a positive team spirit and fostering group commitment to shared goals
• Stay within approved budget and follow policies and procedures for administrative tasks
• Adhere to safety procedures and report any unsafe conditions to ensure a safe working environment for all

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skills,…