Teacher Naturalist

Job Description

Job Description

About Mass Audubon
Mass Audubon is the largest nature-based conservation organization in New England. Founded in 1896 by two women who fought for the protection of birds, Mass Audubon carries on their legacy by focusing on the greatest challenges facing the environment today: the loss of biodiversity, inequitable access to nature, and climate change. With the help of our 160,000 members and supporters, we protect wildlife, conserve and restore resilient land, advocate for impactful environmental policies, offer nationally recognized education programs for adults and children, and provide endless opportunities to experience the outdoors at our wildlife sanctuaries. Explore, find inspiration, and take action at massaudubon.org.

About This Position
We are looking for an experienced educator who is enthusiastic, knowledgeable and highly motivated, dedicated to environmental and climate education, loves to be outdoors and deeply committed to equity in access to nature for all. As a member of Mass Audubon’s Central Education team, this Teacher Naturalist will be engaging both internal and external stakeholders, ensuring educational and outreach outcomes, and promoting Mass Audubon’s mission of protecting the nature of Massachusetts for wildlife and people.

This position will teach PK-12 programming, primarily in Worcester and Fitchburg, MA. This includes the Real Math Real Science field trips and in-school visits for every 7th grader in Worcester, Fitchburg afterschool programs, Worcester and Fitchburg Science of Massachusetts programs, Professional Development for teachers, and developing and implementing a watershed program with Worcester Tech. The ideal candidate will also support Mass Audubon’s commitment to equity and justice and bring a diverse range of experiences, expressions, and views to their work. This is a 10-month term-limited position, with the possibility of extending based on available funding.

Application Instructions
Please submit a resume and cover letter with your ADP application.

Responsibilities

Education

• Develop and implement lessons and activities for PK-12 students with demonstrated skills in educational program design and best teaching practices in environmental education
• Develop and implement lessons and activities for PK-12 with demonstrated skills and ability to work with diverse groups and implement best practices in community engagement, culturally responsive teaching, and inclusive program design
• Conduct evaluation of programs in accordance with statewide Education Department guidelines and practices
• Collaborate with peers to annually review program portfolio and make program refinements based on data results
• Serve as a trusted resource on natural science, conservation science issues including climate change and biodiversity, and Mass Audubon’s legislative priorities for visitors, program participants, other staff, and volunteers
• Effectively communicate and represent Mass Audubon’s mission, vision, and programs to visitors, members, and community members
• Maintain educational supplies, curricula, instructional materials, and resources
• Maintain the safety of all participants and staff as a priority, and maintain strong accountability to Mass Audubon’s risk management policies, child safe environment guidelines, as well as all pertinent licensing regulations and accreditation standards

Management/Supervision

• Collaborate in the planning, scheduling, and marketing of assigned educational programs
• Work with members of regional education team to maintain accurate records of programs and program participants
• Provide support for part-time staff or regularly scheduled field teachers or volunteers

Other

• Attend regional staff meetings and actively participate in statewide education staff meetings, audience professional learning communities, and professional development trainings, as required
• Assist in the administration and implementation of core programs in region during vacation weeks, camp, and special events, and support membership development and fundraising, as needed
• Teach PK12 programs on site and at schools in Worcester and Fitchburg
• Teach public and youth programs in Worcester and Fitchburg

Qualifications
At Mass Audubon, our highest priority is finding the best candidate for the job. Research has shown that people of color and women are less likely to apply for jobs if they don’t believe they meet every one of the qualifications described in a job description. We encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of our described qualifications or you have a less traditional background. We are looking for applicants with the following qualifications:

Must Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in education, biological or earth science, environmental studies, or equivalent with three or more years of experience
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Strong customer service skills
• Flexibility and ability to respond to rapidly changing priorities, meet deadlines, and work as an effective team member
• Ability to relate to a diverse range of people and exercise cultural competence and inclusion
• Proficiency with Microsoft platforms, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel within Massachusetts
• Must be first aid/CPR certified (or willing to become certified) and maintain certification

Nice to Haves

• Experience working with middle school students
• Experience with watershed and stream restoration education
• Experience with developing and evaluating curriculum

Compensation, Benefits and Perks
This position’s pay range is $25.00-$27.00 per hour; actual rate of pay will reflect level of experience and qualifications relative to position requirements.

Benefits eligible staff at Mass Audubon may elect to enroll in medical, dental, and vision plans. Mass Audubon also offers disability and life insurance plans, a retirement plan, and Flexible Spending Account options. Mass Audubon employment also includes access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through and the Reciprocity Agreement through the Consortium of Non-Profit Arts/Cultural/Environmental Organizations of New England. Mass Audubon employees enjoy 13 paid holidays (holidays may shift annually due to where days fall within calendar).

Work Schedule
This is a 10-month, term-limited position from August 2026 through June 2027. Full-time schedule of 32 hours per week, Monday through Friday. Work will be required on some weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed for programs.

Other Requirements
Employees must successfully complete a CORI and SORI Background Check and a Motor Vehicle Record (if applicable) is required.

Mass Audubon’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Justice
Mass Audubon embraces diversity and equal opportunity in a serious way. We are dedicated to forming a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. People of color are strongly encouraged to apply.

Mass Audubon’s mission is to “protect the nature of Massachusetts for people and for wildlife” by building a strong coalition of employees, volunteers, and community members. We recognize that the environmental movement and field of conservation have been affected by societal systems that have limited opportunity and access for many people. As a result, Mass Audubon is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. We are engaged in an ongoing process of organizational assessment and change, designed to remove barriers and create a workplace where all forms of diversity are recognized and valued.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Mass Audubon is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. Mass Audubon prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.