Summer Environmental Educator

The Westport River Watershed Alliance is hiring Summer Environmental Educators for summer 2025 in Westport, MA. The role involves assisting with field trips, developing lesson plans, and leading outdoor programs for children aged 5-16. Responsibilities include planning activities, maintaining equipment, and participating in educational meetings. Candidates should be 18+, passionate about nature, and have experience with children. The position offers hourly pay and certification training.
Organization:Since its inception in 1976, the Westport River Watershed Alliance (WRWA), located in Westport, MA, has been working to (1) educate watershed residents about sound environmental practices to protect our natural resources, (2) to advocate for environmental solutions with the local, state and federal regulators who make critical decisions about our environment, and (3) to assess water quality parameters that document the condition of the river and watershed. The Westport River Watershed includes the towns of Westport, Dartmouth, Fall River, and Freetown in MA and Tiverton and Little Compton in RI. WRWA’s mission is to work together to protect and preserve the Westport River Watershed now and for future generations. Our vision is a healthy watershed where people, wildlife and the River thrive.Now Accepting Applications for: Summer Environmental EducatorsWe are seeking two dedicated, energetic, and fun individuals with a passion for teaching and natural sciences to serve as Environmental Educators for the summer of 2025. In this role, you will have the opportunity to observe and assist in field trips for public schools, learn to develop lesson plans and educational materials, and eventually lead outdoor programs for 5-16 year-olds during the summer watershed discovery program. Activities include seining, paddle boarding, kayaking, hiking, underwater digital photography, arts & crafts, playing games, and more. Have a summer of fun and exploration while making a difference! If you are lifeguard certified or willing to get certified before the start of the summer programs on 6/23, your salary will jump from $15 to $18/hour plus we will cover your certification fees. Otherwise this position includes first aid and CPR certification training if you are not already certified. This position reports to the Education Director and includes 365 hours for the summer ranging from 30-35 hours per week from June 2- August 15. This position can serve as an internship if you need college credit.Responsibilities:Assist education staff with school programs & field studiesPlan and lead weekly lessons and activities for Summer Watershed Discovery Program with help from co-teacher and WRWA education staffHelp maintain, clean and put away science and exploration equipment used during programsRepresent the organization while helping with crafts at the annual River Day celebrationHelp maintain marine aquariums in the River Center as neededAttend weekly education meetings every FridayAssist with general administrative task sand other projects as they ariseOther responsibilities may including helping with water quality monitoring, weeding and watering pollinator gardens, running birthday parties or private programs, or assisting with other facets of day-to-day operationsQualifications:At least 18 years oldExcited to share their passion for nature with children through games, activities, and adventure programsConfident leading groups of children in the outdoors near water environmentsExperience working with children of various agesBasic knowledge of the natural sciences and or/marine ecology or familiar with marine/coastal organisms in MassachusettsHave a positive attitude and can-do spiritAre responsible and understand the importance of safety in the outdoorsHave a current driver’s licenseAre able to commit for entire schedule from June 2 - August 15Preference given to candidates who are enrolled in college courses or who have graduated and are pursuing careers in natural science, environmental education or other teaching fields. Candidates who have a demonstrated interest and personal experience with outdoor activities are also welcome to apply.First Aid/CPR certification at a minimum (we provide training and/or reimbursement), lifeguard certification a plus.To Apply:Please email a cover letter, resume and 3 academic or professional references to: Kim Botelho, Education Director, at wep@wrwa.com Or mail to: Kim Botelho, Westport River Watershed Alliance, P.O. Box 3427, Westport, MA 02790Deadline: Open until positions filled with anticipated deadline of April 25Equal Employment Opportunity: WRWA is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply, regardless of race, color, national origin, disability, religion, age, socioeconomic status, gender, or sexual orientation.