Works with the Executive Director to present, develop, implement, evaluate, and promote Museum education programs

Summary of Current and Planned Museum Educational Program

Outdoor education, centered at the Pool Nature Center, which includes:

• Educational aspects of the development of trails, paths, and planting areas, including accessible trails
• Content-specific workshops and programs, for children, families, and/or adults
• Public hours for exhibits and animal encounters
• Programming for private events and groups
• Environmental/science research projects/partnerships

Educational Outreach

• Live-animal presentations in schools, libraries, community organizations. Topics include Vermont Wildlife, Field Watersheds, Birds in Flight, and Mammals.
• Live-animal presentations at fairs and festivals
• Partnerships with schools and/or school districts to provide ongoing curriculum units for environmental science

Camps for youth

• Summer and vacation camps at the outdoor setting of Pool Nature Center, focusing on environmental and animal science, outdoor skills, and engaging with nature
• Special programs such as leading Road Scholar weeks focusing on hiking and the environment

Major Responsibilities

Program planning and implementation

• Works with the Executive Director to develop the scope of the educational program, including a strategic plan, and to carry out the educational goals of the Museum
• Develops, reviews, and evaluates programs and curriculum
• Serves as primary presenter of off-site presentations and a variety of on-site programs
• Assists in the design and implementation of educational exhibits   Manages and trains consultants, including contract presenters, and relevant educational staff members
• Works with Executive Director to develop and manage the education volunteer program

Development and Communication

• Maintains strong professional relationships with schools and organizations, including libraries, to nurture an ongoing conversation concerning program content and logistics and evaluation.
• Researches relevant grants and funding sources, assists in the preparation of grant applications, and implements grant requirements related to the educational program
• Assists in development and management of program marketing, including social media, newspaper articles, brochures, and newsletters.
• Assists in exploring partnerships, including with the local scientific community 

Administration/General

• Develops and monitors the program budget in conjunction with the Executive Director
• Works with the Executive Director to develop goals for the position and self-evaluation
• Attends and supports Museum special events as needed – included evening and weekend events.
• Assists with other museum duties as assigned by the Executive director.
• Works collaboratively with staff members, volunteers, and Board members
• Represents the Museum in a professional, positive manner. 

Skills and experience appropriate for this position:

• Background in natural history or science (Bachelor’s degree required. Master’s preferred or equivalent experience.) 
• Museum experience strongly preferred 
• Minimum of two years of experience developing, leading and/or evaluating informal educational programs for children and adults, particularly natural history or science program
• Demonstrated experience creating and implementing standards-aligned programming for K-6 students and educators 
• Experience recruiting, hiring, and supervising educators, naturalists and/or volunteers 
• Experience developing interpretive materials for the general public, including exhibits
• Strong organizational and leadership skills with proven track record as an effective team member 
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal) 
• Enthusiasm for place-based science education in natural spaces
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative and be a creative and resourceful employee
• Ability to interact with a variety of people and groups 
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office, web-based software such as Google Suite, and graphic design software (such as Adobe), as well as a willingness to learn new systems
• Strong working knowledge of the use of social media for marketing and communication 
• Valid Driver’s License

Note: must pass background check for working with children