Environmental Educator/Naturalist

The Environmental Learning Centers of Connecticut (ELCCT) is seeking a dynamic individual to play a key role in the delivery of its educational programs. ELCCT is a non-profit environmental education and conservation organization located in west central Connecticut that serves environmental education needs throughout the state of Connecticut. The services provided by ELCCT are aligned with the organization’s mission to “Inspire the appreciation and enjoyment of nature through education and conservation, fostering a healthy environment and an improved quality of life.”

ELCCT is committed to providing high quality educational opportunities to people of all ages both at its facilities and off site, such as at schools and community events. The primary educational facilities of ELCCT include the Indian Rock Nature Preserve (IRNP) and the Harry C. Barnes Memorial Nature Center (BNC). IRNP includes education buildings, a demonstration farm, a 10-acre lake and two recreated wigwams and is home to the Indian Rock Summer Camp. BNC is a community nature center that provides hiking trails and exhibits that are open to the public on a regular basis.

The Environmental Educator/Naturalist is an entry-level position with advancement potential. The Environmental Educator/Naturalist will assist the Director of Education in both developing new and innovative programming and strengthening current programming offered by ELCCT. The Environmental Educator/Naturalist will provide logistical support for educational programs and other organization activities. During Indian Rock Summer Camp, the Environmental Educator/Naturalist will serve as the Director of First Aid, responsible for the well-being and safety of each camper.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Teach and engage people of all ages, including school children, families, and adults in age-appropriate outdoor education programming ensuring that the goals and objectives of the program are met.
• Provide logistical support for programs ensuring the availability of equipment and readiness of facilities.
• Assist Director of Education in developing and adapting school programs to meet local, state and national education standards.
• Assist the Director of Education in the development of new programs responding to the interests of constituents.
• In conjunction with the Director of Education and other staff, fulfill naturalist duties such as presenting walks and talks at the Barnes Nature Center, answer nature related questions, and participate in the management of ELCCT’s preserves.
• Manage facility rentals (i.e. scheduling, tours, obtaining required documentation, day off event staffing).
• Serve as the Director of First Aid for Indian Rock Summer Camp (Training will be provided).
• Assist with general preserve maintenance tasks.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree in environmental education, science, education, or related field.
• Education experience with elementary, middle school or high school aged students, preferred experience with a range of ages.
• Strong working knowledge of ecological principles; knowledge of Connecticut’s flora and fauna preferred.  
• Highly motivated and energetic, with a passion for education and promoting an ethic of care for the environment through a visible dedication to and enthusiasm for nature and the outdoors.
• Successful completion of a background check and attainment of all necessary clearances and certifications

The successful candidate will also possess the following:

• Strong social skills for communicating and working with school groups and the public
• Group management and organizational skills
• Eager to learn and share knowledge
• Have exceptional interpersonal and academic skills
• Be self-motivated, able to follow directions and work independently
• Be able to lift heavy items (20 - 50 pounds) such as hay bales, computer and visual equipment, boxes of publications, birdseed, livestock, tables and chairs, etc. for short periods of time.
• Be able to work with different types of large and small animals
• Ability to work outdoors in all types of weather

Preferred Skills

• Knowledge of and experience with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS); familiarity with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and Connecticut Social Studies standards or willingness to learn.
• Experience with operating outdoor equipment (e.g. mowers, leaf blowers, tractors, chainsaws, etc.)
• Bilingual, Fluent in English / Spanish (Preferred)

The Environmental Educator/Naturalist reports to the Director of Education.

ELCCT offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience; generous vacation package.

This is a full-time position with weekend and evening hours as required.

On-site housing may be available.

To Apply:

Please send cover letter, resume and contact information for three references to Kirsten Tomlinson, Director of Education,

ktomlinson@elcct.org

Closing Date: 10/31/22

Review of applications may begin immediately.

ELCCT reserves the right to fill the position prior to the closing date.

How to apply:

Please send cover letter, resume and contact information for three references to Kirsten Tomlinson, Director of Education,

ktomlinson@elcct.org