Environmental Instructor (Seasonal)

Brandywine Red Clay Alliance is seeking Seasonal Environmental Instructors in Wilmington, DE, to lead hands-on environmental education programs for learners of all ages. Ideal candidates are energetic and reliable with a passion for the outdoors. Responsibilities include teaching, organizing supplies, and participating in staff training. The position offers a flexible schedule, with 3-20 hours per week during spring and fall, requiring availability for daytime programming.
Do you have a love for the outdoors and working with learners of all ages? Are you looking for a flexible work schedule that incorporates a team-based approach? Brandywine Red Clay Alliance (BRC) is looking for energetic, motivated and reliable individuals to join our team of Environmental Instructors (E.I.s). Ideal for stay-at-home parents looking to work while their children are in school or active retirees.

The mission of Brandywine Red Clay Alliance is to promote the restoration, conservation and enjoyment of the natural resources within the Brandywine and Red Clay Watersheds. BRC organizes volunteers for action, connects students and recreation enthusiasts to the outdoors, improves the quality of water, and unites our members in standing tall for the natural resources of our communities.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Environmental Instructors lead part-time, seasonal hands-on environmental education and natural history programming for students ages preschool through adult. They are responsible for carrying out the educational mission of the BRC through meaningful experiences with an emphasis on hands-on field activities that demonstrate the interconnectedness of living organisms and the watershed on which they rely. Programming includes, but is not limited to, school groups, scout groups, tabling events and public programs. During the primary education season, average hours for an E.I. range from 3 – 20 hours per week depending on time commitment and experience level. Instructors must have daytime hours availability during the spring and fall seasons. EIs may also be asked to assist with summer camp, either as chaperones or to substitute when short-handed. Minimal evening and weekend hours are required as well.

INSTRUCTOR RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Participate in a minimum of 10 hours of observation and/or team-teaching before independently teaching a program
• Enthusiastically lead a variety of hands-on programs while fulfilling the program goals and science standards outlined in the lesson plans
• Organize, setup and clean up program supplies before and after scheduled programs in allotted time
• Lead programs either onsite or at outreach locations (Chester County, PA and New Castle County, DE)
• Willingness to learn new content and expand personal limitations
• Lead scout and public programming after school hours and on weekends
• Assist with tabling events as needed
• Attend paid staff trainings (1 per season and others as needed)
• Be available to lead at least 5 days of programming per high demand month
• Represent BRC and lead programs in a professional manner
• Serve as a role model for environmental stewardship
• Submit accurate timesheets (program hours worked and travel time – if applicable) in a timely manner

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
• Previous experience (volunteer or paid) working with children, degree in science and/or knowledge of science and local natural history topics
• Current Act 33/34, 151 and 114 clearances accepted or we will pay for you to obtain clearances
• First Aid & CPR certification desired; training provided every June
• Reliable transportation and punctuality
• Flexibility and willingness to work both individually and in a team-based environment to meet program needs
• Effective time management and oral communication skills
• Willingness to teach outdoors in inclement weather conditions
• Ability to hike terrain while carrying tools/supplies needed for programs
• Bilingual (Spanish) is a plus

COMPENSATION:

$15.00 to start. Progressive hourly pay scale and paid training. Employee discount for summer camp programs.