Botanical Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Summer Education Program Guide

Department: Learning and Public Engagement

Supervisor: Manager of Learning Programs

Supervises: N/A

FLSA Salary Classification: Seasonal, Non-exempt

Last Update: January 28, 2025

Availability: Spring and summer season only. Minimum of 20 hours is required during regular garden hours. Some weekend and evening assignments are available.

Position Summary:

Implement nature discovery programs for youth and families in the spring and summer by using the Garden as a living classroom. Help children discover the basic botanical science concepts related to plant and animal life, interrelationships among species, and human influences on the environment, through engaging interpretive techniques and by following the education program curriculum.

Essential Functions:

• Instruct STEM Camps for students ages 4-12, STEM Field Trips, family programs, Nature Academy, and Pre-K programs. Work with the STEM Youth Volunteer Program assisting with programs and hands-on learning.
• Guide campers on a variety of Garden trails, being alert to weather conditions, students’ level of understanding, and physical capabilities. Ability to adapt schedules and curriculum as needed to fit timelines and unique opportunities that arise.
• Present concepts related to the Garden’s natural and horticultural areas, special exhibits and events, and plant collections by using engaging interpretive and inquiry-based teaching techniques.
• Assist with family programs including nature hikes, Scout programs, and butterfly releases.
• Understand and communicate the Garden’s mission, vision, strategic plan, programs, and structure in a positive, constructive, and effective manner.
• Participate in required training sessions, mentoring assignments, staff meetings, planning sessions, and guide meetings.
• Assist in the daily clean up and set up of programs as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree with 2+ years’ experience teaching/interpreting science to children in formal or informal programs required. Must exhibit excellent oral presentation skills and the ability to engage and project enthusiasm about learning and nature to youth audiences. Expected to present a professional image to the public by following the

Garden/Education Program dress code. Must possess a valid driver’s license, which is subject to insurability and an annual Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) report and complete a background check. Must become certified and maintain certification in First Aid and CPR (classes provided).

Success Factors:

• A commitment to, and ability to effectively convey, the Garden’s mission of connecting people with plants with a genuine passion that also embraces and exemplifies the Garden’s core values.
• Understand and communicate the Garden’s mission, vision, strategic plan, programs, and structure in a positive, constructive, and effective manner.
• Public service attitude and genuine enthusiasm for working with students and the public.
• Maintain a flexible, constructive, courteous approach to teachers, parents, children, and other staff.
• Sense of responsibility in the area of safety, including appropriate radio use and basic safety measures.
• Willingness and ability to check email and Basecamp regularly for communication with supervisors and other staff.
• Stamina and ability to lead and deliver programs outdoors in various weather conditions.

Preferred Qualifications:

Coursework and/or experience in areas such as ecology, botany, horticulture, biology, environmental science, general science, child development, interpretation or teaching methods preferred. Experience with English Language Learners or special needs students a plus. Proficiency with Microsoft Office/Word beneficial.

Physical Demands and Work Environment: The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

• Physical Demands: Ability to travel over one mile on paved, wood-chipped, and dirt paths over varied and uneven terrain with a group of program attendees. Limited lifting and carrying (up to 30 lbs.).
• Work Environment: Work is performed primarily outdoors in various weather conditions throughout the four seasons. When working indoors, expect use of general office equipment, microscopes, two-way radio, and assorted science equipment.

Job descriptions are guidelines that attempt to characterize essential functions and responsibilities of a job and are subject to change as needs and programs change. At Huntsville Botanical Garden job descriptions are considered neither inclusive nor exclusive. It is expected that up to 20% of your duties may change annually.

Employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

The Huntsville Botanical Garden supports a culture of inclusion that attracts, inspires, and engages people to achieve success. The Garden is committed to hire and develop employees based on job-related qualifications irrespective of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, or veteran status. To increase diversity in professions related to the public garden realm, we encourage applications from underrepresented minorities, persons with disabilities, and veterans.