Coastal Field Instructor

The Coastal Field Instructor at the National Audubon Society, Inc. in Pascagoula, MS, is responsible for delivering engaging environmental education programs for youth. This on-site role involves planning hands-on activities like hikes and kayaking, maintaining a supportive camp environment, and assisting with daily operations. The position requires collaboration with staff and volunteers, strong relationship-building skills, and comfort working outdoors during summer. The assignment runs from June 1 to July 31, 2026.
About Audubon


The National Audubon Society is a leading nonprofit conservation organization with 120 years of science-based, community-driven impact, dedicated to protecting birds and the places they need, today and tomorrow. Birds are powerful indicators of our planet’s health, acting as sentinels that warn us of environmental change and inspire action. Audubon works across the Western Hemisphere, driven by the understanding that what is good for birds is good for the planet. Through a collaborative, bipartisan approach across habitats, borders, and the political spectrum, Audubon drives meaningful and lasting conservation outcomes. With 800 staff and over 1.9 million supporters, Audubon is a dynamic and ever-growing force committed to ensuring a better planet for both birds and people for generations to come. Learn more at www.audubon.org and on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @audubonsociety.



Position Summary:


The Coastal Field Instructor supports the delivery of high-quality, safe, and engaging environmental education programs for youth at the Audubon Center. Working collaboratively with the Education Manager, all PRAC Staff, and volunteers, this role assists with daily camp operations, program preparation, and end-of-day coordination while helping create a welcoming and supportive camp experience for all participants.



The Coastal Field Instructor plans and facilitates hands-on learning activities such as hikes, kayaking, live-animal programs, crafts, and games, and helps maintain a positive, respectful environment for campers. This position builds strong relationships with campers, families, staff, volunteers, and visitors; supports front-of-house and visitor engagement needs; and assists with PRAC educational operations, including outreach and marketing support. The role requires flexibility, sound judgment, and comfort working outdoors in summer conditions while contributing to a collaborative, mission-driven camp team.




Length of Assignment: June 1 – July 31, 2026




Hours: 25




This role is on-site at the Pascagoula River Audubon Center, Moss Point, MS.



Compensation:


$19.00 / hour





Additional Job Description





Essential Functions




Assist the Camp Director with daily operations, issue resolution, and end-of-day staff debriefs.




Set up and clean up camp activities, and plan and deliver weekly sessions including hikes, kayaking, live-animal programs, crafts, and games.




Maintain a safe, supportive environment for all campers.




Foster positive relationships with campers, parents, staff, and volunteers.




Support PRAC educational operations, including social media and marketing.




Operate office and program equipment including copiers, phones, kayaks, a rigid inflatable boat (RIB), and binoculars.




Maintains and fosters culture of safety.




Other job duties given.




Qualifications and Experience:




Complete at least one year of college coursework in environmental or life sciences (preferred).




Bring teaching, curriculum development, environmental education, or camp leadership experience (preferred).




Lead groups confidently, initiate activities, understand safety procedures, and enforce protocols.




Work independently and as part of a team.




Supervise volunteers professionally and resolve minor issues with campers, parents, or staff.




Possess strong work ethic, natural history knowledge, enthusiasm, flexibility, judgment under pressure, and time-management skills.




Demonstrate respect for people of all backgrounds and for nature.




Maintain a positive, reliable attitude in all conditions and complete tasks with minimal supervision.




Provide reliable daily transportation to the Audubon Center.




Comfortable performing physical tasks such as running, lifting, carrying, climbing, and pulling, with or without reasonable accommodation.




Must possess valid driver’s license and clean driving record.




Experience with Canva and Microsoft Excel a plus.




Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.




Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.




EEO Statement


We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic outlined by federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates.



Accessibility Statement


The National Audubon Society endeavors to keep our careers site accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Accommodations@audubon.org. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.