Norman Bird Sanctuary seeks a dynamic educator to serve as its Teacher Naturalist. This role is responsible for developing and guiding nature-based education programs, including Norman Bird Sanctuary’s award-winning Summer Camp. Norman Bird Sanctuary seeks applicants with a demonstrated commitment to collaboration and those interested in building a diverse team to achieve our mission. We advance environmental literacy and promote stewardship through engaging programs for all ages. Norman Bird Sanctuary seeks to meet the educational needs and demand from schools, teachers, parents, students and other partner organizations for outdoor environmental education programs that connect to Norman Bird Sanctuary’s 325-acre campus.

The Teacher Naturalist conceptualizes and delivers educational, experiential programs for Norman Bird Sanctuary’s diverse audiences. These programs include school outreach, community group visits, scout programs, and youth and family drop-in activities, workshops, and paid classes. 

The Teacher Naturalist initiates, implements, and promotes NBS activities across Aquidneck Island, Rhode Island, and the broader New England region. The Teacher Naturalist helps to guide and support the development and implementation of curricula, new research, and outdoor programs at Norman Bird Sanctuary by:

• Designing, developing, and implementing education programs and services that ensure continued alignment with state science standards;

• Creating, fostering, and strengthening educational partnerships throughout Rhode Island and across New England;

• Strategically positioning education programs and services to generate revenue through grants, sponsorships, and fee-for-service models;

• Implementing quantitative and qualitative program evaluation processes that enable Norman Bird Sanctuary to measure and demonstrate program impact;

• Working with an advisory Education Committee to provide strategic vision and leadership to meet the organization’s goals;

• Supporting the development and implementation of long-range strategic plans and associated annual work plans and operating budgets.

Key Responsibilities

Norman Bird Sanctuary’s Teacher Naturalist works collaboratively with the organization’s diverse stakeholders to deliver environmental education opportunities and programs. Key responsibilities include:

• Teach inquiry-based lesson plans and activities for PreK-12 school and community groups as well as adult and family programs.
• Guide excursions and nature hikes for youth, families, and adults focused on a range of topics that interpret the Norman Bird Sanctuary’s habitats and natural resources, including wildlife, conservation, environment, cultural history, and local plant ecology.
• Manage the growth and implementation of Norman Bird Sanctuary’s environmental education programs including: school outreach and partnerships, education-based collaborations with other nonprofits and businesses, Summer Camp, and adult learning.
• Collaborate with community organizations, educators, administrators, curriculum specialists, scientists, and businesses.
• Develop and deliver youth activities at special events.
• Lead children in outdoor exploration using hands-on activities, songs, games, stories, and projects.
• Lead scout programs that meet badge requirements.
• Maintain current educational standards and place-based learning.
• Work with marketing/communications staff to promote and publicize programs.
• Set up and break down programs.
• Monitor groups in all types of indoor and outdoor environments and be mindful of the safety and welfare of all participants and fellow staff.
• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Skills and Experience

• BA/BS or MA/MS in a related field (education, environmental science, natural resource management, etc.).
• Minimum of five years of experience in a related field. Minimum of three years of classroom teaching experience in a science or STEAM field is highly preferred.
• Demonstrated knowledge of best practices in environmental education and nature-based education. Experience teaching in a formal or informal setting and knowledge of the Rhode Island Science and Technology/Engineering and Next Generation Science curriculum standards.
• Broad understanding of the connections among Norman Bird Sanctuary’s diverse habitats, ecology, economy, and communities.
• Ability to work outdoors in a variety of conditions and a willingness to work some evenings and weekends.
• Familiarity delivering engaging programs via in-person and virtual platforms.
• Strong technology and computer skills.
• Experience working with a variety of audiences, including school groups, PreK-12 community groups, and families.
• Ability to present information at the appropriate age and grade level of the group and manage behavior.
• Ability to work with diverse groups and exercise cultural competence and inclusion.
• Strong organizational, time management, oral, and written communication skills.
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills, including the ability to deal tactfully with visitors, students, volunteers, instructors, and colleagues.
• Ability to work toward a shared vision with a flexible, adaptable attitude.
• Independent and self-directed with a team-oriented, supportive approach to all aspects of a non-profit.
• Passion for the mission of the Norman Bird Sanctuary.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license, and ability to travel, primarily across Aquidneck Island.