Eco Adventures - Conservation Educator II  Position

Mission Statement: Eco Adventures aims to provide hands-on educational experiences that promote ecological awareness and foster a deep connection to nature. Our programs offer enriching ecological encounters for students of all ages, inspiring them to make positive contributions to the planet. Through unique opportunities to interact with diverse animals, explore global habitats, and engage in various art forms, students gain valuable knowledge of ecological, scientific, and technical research around the world.

Position Overview: The Conservation Education Instructor is responsible for delivering dynamic, educational programming for children and public participants at a variety of events, including field trips, outreach programs, summer camps, special events, scouts, birthday parties, and festivals. The Instructor will be responsible for educating audiences about diverse species, their habitats, and conservation efforts while also supporting animal care and managing program logistics.  Educator will work with a variety of animals such as alligators, snakes, small mammals, lizards, inverts, owls, and parrots.  This is a high energy, fun, and rewarding position working with children and adults of all ages.  Are you ready to make a difference?

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct engaging educational programs for children (primarily ages 3-12) and public attendees at schools, camps, fairs, special events, and more.
• Lead presentations on a variety of ecological topics, featuring live animals such as arthropods, birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles.
• Organize and maintain program materials, biofacts, and props.
• Prepare materials for upcoming programs and special events.
• Develop and write scientifically accurate program content.
• Maintain records of programs, contracts, and activity files.
• Assist in training and supervising junior assistant volunteers.
• Lead outdoor education activities, including hikes, nature exploration, and environmental research.
• Support animal husbandry tasks, such as feeding animals and cleaning enclosures.
• Promote conservation initiatives and green practices in all programming.
• Assist with daily operations, including customer service, record-keeping, and other administrative tasks.
• Safely transport children in a 15-passenger van or minivan. (Training provided)

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Science, Education, or a related field (or equivalent experience in science education or non-formal settings), animal experience preferred 
• Public speaking and teaching experience with children are required.
• Prior experience with animals and animal handling is preferred.
• Valid Maryland driver's license, clean driving record, and reliable transportation.
• General knowledge of ecological subjects such as the Chesapeake Bay, rainforests, oceans, and conservation practices.
• Must complete training, including safety protocols, animal handling, child care courses, and program orientation.
• Background check required.

Competencies:

• High energy, outgoing personality with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to adapt quickly to various changes in schedules, activities, and situations.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Capacity to work in a variety of environments, including classrooms, outdoor festivals, and field research settings.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and handle various animals safely.
• Flexibility with schedules, as hours will vary based on program needs.

Physical and Mental Requirements:

• Visual and auditory abilities to work effectively in diverse settings.
• Ability to drive and handle materials (loading/unloading bins).
• Physical stamina to be on your feet for extended periods.
• Capacity to hike, swim, and interact with animals in various habitats.
• Ability to maintain responsibility for a group of children and adhere to safety standards.

Work Environment:

• Exposure to extreme weather conditions (heat, rain).
• Interaction with animals and nature, including potential exposure to venomous or poisonous creatures.
• Exposure to the public, including face-to-face interactions and verbal communication.

Schedule:

• Hours vary based on the type of program and season.
• Instructors may work weekdays, weekends, and during summer months.
• Summer: Primarily weekdays, leading camps and teaching outreach programs.
• During the academic year: School programs, field trips, homeschool sessions, program development, and animal care.

Salary and Benefits:

• Hourly pay ranges from $16.50 (training) to $21 per hour, depending on experience and program type.
• Hours vary with season 28-35 hours per week during slower seasons (Fall-January), and up to 40 hours per week during peak season (Spring-Summer).
• No insurance benefits; candidates must provide their own health insurance and transportation.
• Paid training, including child care courses, CPR/First Aid certification, and background check.
• The ability to work with an exotic collection of animals hands-on and expert  team staff members
• Requires a minimum 1.5-year commitment.

Additional Information:

• Eco Adventures contributes a portion of proceeds to rainforest and crocodilian research and conservation projects in Costa Rica.
• Opportunities to attend conferences and represent Eco Adventures at professional events.
• Eco Adventures offers potential for professional development and advancement within the organization.
• All staff are covered by workers’ compensation insurance.

How to Apply: If you're ready to make a difference and inspire others to protect our planet, please submit your cover letter and resume to: EcoAdventuresMD@gmail.com

For more information, visit our website: www.EcoAdventures.org

Eco Adventures, LLC
216 Najoles Rd., Ste 600, Millersville, MD 21108
Phone: 410-987-1300

Disclaimer: The above description outlines the primary duties and requirements of this role but is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities. Eco Adventures reserves the right to modify this job description as needed.