Position: AmeriCorps Naturalist Educator

Organization: Truckee Meadows Parks Foundation (TMPF)

Position Description:

The Naturalist Educator, an AmeriCorps member, will be an essential member of the team for this young non-profit organization. This person will primarily implement and support the Student Stewards Program. The Student Stewards Program uses public parks within walking distance of under-served schools as learning laboratories. Students engage in hands-on community science research with a goal of improved academic engagement and better preparation for educational success. This will include teaching a three part class to underserved schools, developing and maintaining relationships with Washoe County schools administration and teachers, and developing and writing curriculum. This AmeriCorps member will also develop and implement the Student Stewards Spring and Summer Camps, a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) camp for economically disadvantaged students.​​

Location: Reno, NV​

Service Dates: 

Member's term of service begins on November 16th, 2020 and will be completed by August 13th, 2021. This is a three-quarter time AmeriCorps member position. Members must complete 1220 hours of service.

Primary Responsibilities​

• Facilitate the Student Stewards Program;
• Write new and enhance current STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics) curriculum using Common Core and Next Generation Science Standards;
• Develop and maintain partnerships with school administrators and teachers;
• Create, write, and implement STEAM and recreational camp programming for the Student Stewards Summer Camp and school break camps;
• Facilitate TMPF’s Junior Naturalist Program.

Secondary Responsibilities

• Facilitate other interpretive programs such as Truckee Meadows Trails Challenge and Discover Your Parks walks;​
• Community outreach for the Student Stewards Program;
• Create new adult education programs and events.​​

Qualifications

• Passionate commitment to TMPF’s mission and vision;
• Bachelor’s degree in education, science, or a related field;
• Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment;
• Exceptional writing skills;
• Strong communication skills;
• Strong organizational skills;
• High degree of initiative and spirit of service;
• Experience working with students, teachers, and volunteers;
• Preferred: strong understanding of education standards and experience in curriculum development;
• Preferred: experience teaching in formal or informal settings;
• Preferred: experience working at or managing summer camp programs;
• Preferred: Reading, writing, and speaking competency in Spanish language.