Implement nature discovery programs for youth and families by using the Garden’s natural resources. Help children discover the basic botanical science concepts related to plant and animal life, interrelationships among species, and human influences on the environment, through engaging interpretive techniques and by following education program curriculum.

Department: Education
Supervisor: Manager of Curriculum
Supervises: N/A
FLSA Salary Classification: Temporary/Seasonal, Non-exempt
Availability*: Summer (May-August): Summer Science Camps: May include required trainings. Fall, spring, and winter: Opportunities available

General Summary:

Implement nature discovery programs for youth and families by using the Garden’s natural resources. Help children discover the basic botanical science concepts related to plant and animal life, interrelationships among species, and human influences on the environment, through engaging interpretive techniques and by following education program curriculum.

Essential Duties:

• Instruct Science Camps for Kindergarten – 6th grade students focused on STEM curriculum.
• Ability to adapt schedules and camp curriculum as needed to fit timelines and unique opportunities that arise.
• Present tours/programs, outreach, and other activities to Preschool – 12th grade students, scout groups, family audiences, and other informal youth groups by following program goals.
• Present concepts related to the Garden’s natural and horticultural areas, special exhibits and events, and plant collections by using engaging interpretive and inquiry-based teaching techniques.
• Guide groups on a variety of Garden trails, being alert to weather conditions, students’ level of understanding, and physical capabilities.
• Understand and communicate the Garden’s mission, vision, strategic plan, programs, and structure in a positive, constructive, and effective manner.
• May serve as point of contact with teachers for assigned school programs.
• Participate in required training sessions, mentoring assignments, staff meetings, planning sessions, and guide meetings.
• Assist in the daily clean up and set up of programs as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required. 2+ years’ experience teaching/interpreting science to children in formal or informal programs required.
• Coursework and/or experience in areas such as ecology, botany, horticulture, biology, environmental science, general science, child development, interpretation or teaching methods preferred.
• Excellent oral presentation skills and the ability to engage and project enthusiasm about learning and nature to youth audiences required. Experience with English Language Learners or special needs students a plus.
• Must present professional image to the public by following the Garden/Education Program Guide dress code.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license, which is subject to insurability and an annual Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) report.
• Must become certified and maintain certification in First Aid and CPR (classes provided).
• Background check required.  Proficiency with Microsoft Office/Word beneficial.

Success Factors:

• Exemplify Core Values.
• Possess significant cultural appreciation for the mission of the Garden and the work of a botanical museum.
• Public service attitude and genuine enthusiasm for working with students and the public.
• Maintain a flexible, constructive, courteous approach to teachers, parents, children, and other guides.
• Sense of responsibility in the area of safety, including appropriate radio use and basic safety measures.
• Willingness and ability to check email regularly for communication with supervisors and other staff.
• Stamina and ability to lead and deliver programs outdoors in various weather conditions.

Physical Demands and Work Environment: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

• Physical Demands: Requires some physical activity: limited lifting and carrying (up to 30 lbs.), ability to travel over one mile on paved, wood-chipped, and dirt paths over varied and uneven terrain.
• Work Environment: Work is performed primarily outdoors in various weather conditions throughout the four seasons.
• Equipment: General office equipment, microscopes, two-way radio, assorted science equipment, individual backpacks with necessary materials and equipment are provided for Guides to use during programs.

* Availability requirements may change due to need. Availability is provided prior to the start of each season, but assignment to programs depends on audience demand. Amount of actual work is based on registration levels from season to season and year to year. Capacity for programs is often met, but is not a guarantee.

Job descriptions are guidelines that attempt to characterize major duties and responsibilities of employees, and are subject to change as needs and programs change. At Huntsville Botanical Garden they are considered neither inclusive nor exclusive. It is expected that up to 20% of your duties may change annually.