Environmental Educator

Monday - Friday | 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Occasional weekends | 2-3 hours per shift

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks that include numerous retail and restaurant discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates for performing arts events.

The North Carolina Botanical Garden ( NCBG) has been a leader in native plant conservation, horticulture, and education in the southeastern United States for more than 50 years. As part of The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, we further the University's tripartite teaching, research, and public service mission through our own mission to cultivate connections between plants, people, and place through science, engagement, and conservation. As a garden focused on conserving the biodiversity of southeastern native plants, we recognize that just as biodiversity is critical to a healthy ecosystem, diversity in people and perspectives makes our organization and community stronger. NCBG is committed to creating an environment in our gardens and natural areas where everyone's voice is heard and everyone feels safe and welcome.

The North Carolina Botanical Garden ( NCBG) offers a wide range of hands-on environmental education programs for children and families, designed to spark meaningful connections with nature and place. From preschool classes and school field trips to seasonal camps, our programs aim to foster environmental appreciation, inspire a sense of place and wonder, and cultivate a lasting love of science and discovery. Utilizing NCBG's native plant gardens and nature trails, we create dynamic and engaging educational experiences.

We are seeking a creative, self-motivated educator who is passionate about nature-based learning to join our Youth Education Program team. Under the supervision of the Youth Education Program Manager, this position will help prepare for and lead high-quality environmental education programs for children (PreK-5) and families. Programs include teacher workday and summer camps; early childhood classes; family workshops; and school field trips. The educator will also help develop and maintain teaching resources, educational exhibits, and self-guided interpretive activities, as well as support program administration.

This is a 30-hour-per-week position, typically scheduled Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM. The position requires flexibility to adjust hours as needed based on program schedules, including one weekend program per month. During the summer camp season, hours increase to 40 hours per week.

Primary Duties:
* Prepare for and teach engaging, age-appropriate nature-based programs for children (PreK-5) and families
* Adapt lessons to meet the needs of all learners while supporting overall program objectives
* Use a variety of teaching methods to foster hands-on, inquiry-based learning
* Ensure the safety and well-being of participants by following established health and safety protocols
* Communicate clearly and professionally with participants, parents/caregivers, and stakeholders
* Maintain program supplies and equipment, ensuring they remain organized and in good working condition
* Keep accurate records of programs, attendance, and evaluations as required
* Contribute to the development of educational exhibits, self-guided activities, and related learning materials
* Assist with upkeep of the children's garden (nature play space, bird feeding station, etc.) and the family discovery room
* Participate in required trainings and staff meetings

Bachelor's degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment and one year of experience that demonstrates possession of the competencies necessary to perform the work; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

* Commitment to the mission of the North Carolina Botanical Garden
* Demonstrated ability to lead engaging, developmentally appropriate, and scientifically accurate nature-based programs for children (preschool - 5th grade) in outdoor, non-formal settings (e.g., botanical gardens, nature centers, parks, or museums)
* Strong knowledge of local flora and fauna and ecosystems
* Working knowledge of environmental education and interpretive best practices
* Experience creating teaching materials
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work productively and respectfully with participants of all ages and backgrounds
* Strong customer service orientation; patient, kind, and professional
* Creative, adaptable, energetic, and self-motivated, with good judgment
* Detail-oriented with strong time and task management skills
* Demonstrated success working both independently and collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and program participants
* Proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications (Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams) and ability to learn new platforms
* CPR, AED, and First Aid certification (training provided upon employment)
* Ability to work occasional weekends (1 per month)
* Must successfully complete a background check prior to employment

* Experience and enthusiasm for leading nature-based programs for early childhood audiences (ages 4-7)
* Experience creating educational/interpretive displays and activities
* North Carolina Environmental Education Certification

* Ability to work outdoors in varied weather conditions, including heat, humidity, and cold
* Ability to maneuver/move up to 40 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation
* Must be able to bend, squat, stand, and walk for extended periods and to navigate uneven grounds and move efficiently through display garden and trails

H-1B sponsorship is not available for this position.

If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at (919) 843-2300 or send an email to employment@unc.edu

Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.