About Mass Audubon

Mass Audubon is the largest nature-based conservation organization in New England. Founded in 1896 by two women who fought for the protection of birds, Mass Audubon carries on their legacy by focusing on the greatest challenges facing the environment today: the loss of biodiversity, inequitable access to nature, and climate change. With the help of our 140,000 members and supporters, we protect wildlife, conserve and restore resilient land, advocate for impactful environmental policies, offer nationally recognized education programs for adults and children, and provide endless opportunities to experience the outdoors at our wildlife sanctuaries. Explore, find inspiration, and take action at www.massaudubon.org.

About This Position

Mass Audubon’s South East Region includes 22 sanctuaries and approximately 4,000 acres across Plymouth and Bristol counties. We are searching for an enthusiastic educator to lead environmental education programming in Southeastern Massachusetts along the South Coast primarily in the communities of Fall River, New Bedford, and Wareham. The Community Educator will engage both internal and external stakeholders, ensuring educational and outreach outcomes, and promoting Mass Audubon’s mission of protecting the nature of Massachusetts for wildlife and people.  The work will be guided by Mass Audubon’s recently approved Strategic Plan and the statewide Education Department’s program frameworks. We are looking for an experienced educator who is highly motivated and dedicated to urban environmental education. The ideal candidate will support Mass Audubon’s commitment to equity and justice and bring a diverse range of experiences, expressions, and views to their work. BIPOC candidates and residents of Fall River and New Bedford, MA are encouraged to apply.

Duties & Responsibilities

The following items are representative of the position, including but not limited to:

• Work with Lead Education Coordinators to develop and deliver nature-based, science programs for all ages.
• Prepare and lead school field trip programs at Mass Audubon Wildlife Sanctuaries and community partner sites.
• Lead in-school or afterschool programs for school districts on the South Coast of MA.
• Assist with the planning and development of new programs and activities.
• Monitor program participants in all types of outdoor environments and ensure the safety and comfort of all participants.
• Convey Mass Audubon’s mission, Action Agenda and educational philosophies throughout all programs.
• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

At Mass Audubon, our highest priority is finding the best candidate for the job. Research has shown that people of color and women are less likely to apply for jobs if they don't believe they meet every one of the qualifications described in a job description. We encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of our described qualifications or you have a less traditional background. We are looking for applicants with the following qualifications:

Must Haves: 

• Experience working with a variety of audiences including adults, college students, community groups, school groups, and families in inquiry-based teaching and learning.
• Bachelor’s degree in process or completed, preferably in education, environmental studies, or related field and/or at least four years relevant experience.
• Strong organizational, time management, oral, and written communication skills.
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills, including the ability to build relationships and deal tactfully with community partners, students, volunteers and staff.
• Ability to work with diverse groups and exercise cultural competence and inclusion.
• Communicate in a manner that gains the trust and support of others at all levels.
• Strive for collaboration. Work cooperatively, as a positive contributor to the team.
• Demonstrate a positive attitude.
• Proficiency in standard business software, such as Microsoft Office or G Suite.
• Have a Valid driver’s license.

Nice to Haves: 

• Fluent Portuguese and/or Spanish speaker strongly preferred.

Compensation & Benefits

This position’s base salary range is $18.35 - $20.65; actual salary will reflect level of experience and qualifications relative to position requirements. 

Benefits and Perks
Benefits eligible staff at Mass Audubon may elect to enroll in medical, dental, and vision plans. Mass Audubon also offers disability and life insurance plans, a retirement plan through MetLife, and Flexible Spending Account options. Mass Audubon employment also includes access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and the Reciprocity Agreement through the Consortium of Non-Profit Arts/Cultural/Environmental Organizations of New England. Mass Audubon employees also enjoy 12 paid holidays (holidays may shift annually due to where days fall within calendar).

Additional Information

Work Schedule: 

The Community Educator is a salaried, full-time position with 40 hours/week and includes a full benefit package. The standard work schedule for this position is 40 hours per week Monday through Friday. However, the position requires a great deal of flexibility and the ability to work some weekends and occasional evenings to meet the needs of the program and organization.

Other Requirements:

Employees must successfully complete a CORI and SORI Background Check and a Motor Vehicle Record (if applicable) is required.

COVID-19 Considerations

Mass Audubon requires that all staff, regardless of their work location, disclose their vaccination status. Proof of vaccination status will be required immediately upon hire. This should also include a booster shot if it has been 5 months since you were initially vaccinated.

Mass Audubon's Commitment To Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Justice

Mass Audubon's mission is to "protect the nature of Massachusetts for people and for wildlife" by building a strong coalition of employees, volunteers, and community members. We recognize that the environmental movement and field of conservation have been affected by societal systems that have limited opportunity and access for many people. As a result, Mass Audubon is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. We are engaged in an ongoing process of organizational assessment and change, designed to remove barriers and create a workplace where all forms of diversity are recognized and valued.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Mass Audubon is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. Mass Audubon prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.