Discovery Southeast is accepting applications for a Lead Naturalist. The main responsibility is teaching our elementary nature and science programs. The position can also encompass enrichment programs for elementary and middle schoolers, developing curricula, managing programs, and writing grants.
The backgrounds we value most include classroom teaching, leading groups outdoors, and developing lessons. Candidates should be comfortable managing groups of children, enjoy being outdoors, and be committed to nature education. We hope to find someone who is looking for stable employment for several years.
The scope of the lead naturalist position will be designed to fit the right candidate. Work can be part time, i.e. 5-15 hours per week, or up to 3/4 time with a candidate who has skills and experience to develop curricula, manage programs, and write grants. Starting hourly salary is $20-$25.
Organization: Since 1989 Discovery Southeast has provided education and exploration deepening Southeast Alaskans connection with nature. We are a regional non-profit started by outdoor leaders who wanted to ensure that local residents, particularly children, experience the natural connections and local grandeur of Southeast Alaska. Today, with many of those same founders still involved, our core programs teach virtually every Juneau child to learn and explore through nature. We strive to reach all Juneau children, with an emphasis to include those who might not otherwise be introduced to the outdoors at a young age.
Duties: The main duty is work as a Lead Naturalist, teaching nature education to elementary school classes, predominantly outdoors. Additional hours can include running enrichment programs, developing new programs, developing educational materials, and contributing to organizational management (community outreach, fundraising, etc). This position can accommodate summers off, and/or months off during the school year for those who enjoy traveling. Summer work as a day-camp counselor is also available for candidates seeking year-round employment.
Using curriculum developed from Discovery Southeast’s 28 year history of providing nature education, and in coordination with classroom teachers, Naturalists plan and teach lessons designed to awaken children to a comfort and connection with nature, and a better understanding of the natural world. Programs occur partly in classrooms and mostly outdoors. Besides engaging children’s curiosity and senses, lead naturalists are responsible for classroom management and keeping a classroom of students safe. Our enrichment programs include more adventure and recreation than our school-based programming. For those, the naturalist will be responsible for a group of children outside of school hours, engaging them in the natural world. Groups include primary age students (ages 6-9), intermediate (ages 10-12) and middle school (ages 12-15). Besides knowledge of the outdoors and a focus on safety, instructors need to bring enthusiasm for outdoor and recreational activities, and energy and curiosity to attract youth to the programs.
To Apply: Interested candidates may submit a cover letter and resume to Shawn Eisele, at executivedirector@discoverysoutheast.org. Questions are welcome at the same email address. In applications, please specify roughly how many hours a week you would like to work. More information about our programs is at DiscoverySoutheast.org. Applications will start to be reviewed late-July.
