Part-Time Temporary Garden Educator at The Norman Bird Sanctuary Trust – Middletown, Rhode Island

ABOUT NORMAN BIRD SANCTUARY’S SUMMER CAMP:

For six decades, Norman Bird Sanctuary has welcomed hundreds of campers to our award-winning Summer Camp.

In what has become a tradition for many, generations of curious campers have been able to explore our expansive 300-acre outdoor classroom and have fun in nature. Our age-appropriate and innovative camps offer a unique blend of hands-on learning, games, animal encounters and team building. Camp groups utilize our outdoor classrooms and are held in small groups with caring, enthusiastic and professional Teacher Naturalists.

For more information about our camp programs visit: https://www.normanbirdsanctuary.org/summer-camp

GENERAL DESCRIPTION: Norman Bird Sanctuary is seeking a seasonal Garden Educator to develop and deliver garden-based lessons for our Summer Camp program at the Good Gardens. This position requires working collaboratively with the Education and Properties Departments to ensure garden programs match weekly and daily themes for each camp group. Campers range in age from 4 to 13 years old, and all applicants should be comfortable working with multiple age groups each day. Term of Employment: June 12th through August 14th and includes one week of staff training. This is a part-time position, likely two to three half days per week. Exact days and times can be coordinated throughout the spring.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and deliver garden-based educational programs for campers ages 4 - 13
• Work collaboratively with Education and Properties Departments and Naturalists to plan and teach lessons
• Create a safe and welcoming environment for camper learning and exploration
• Support the collaborative relationship between NBS and University of RI Master Gardeners in developing experiential gardening lessons using the Good Gardens

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be at least 18 years old by contract start date
• Knowledge of or a strong interest in gardening and food production
• Able to work outdoors in all weather conditions
• Experience working with children in a responsible and professional setting
• Strong communication skills
• Must pass national and state background checks
• Bachelor’s degree or coursework towards a college degree in education, environmental science, or biology preferred

COMPENSATION: Hourly wages based upon experience and position, paid biweekly. Length of service will be part-time for 9 weeks, June 12th through August 14th. CPR and First AID certification will be offered for those who are not already certified. This is an exempt, at-will, temporary position.