Houston Arboretum & Nature Center seeks Naturalist

Reports To: Education Director
Employment Status: Full-time
Compensation: $43-47K dependent upon experience

About the Arboretum

Houston Arboretum & Nature Center is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide education about the natural environment to people of all ages, and to protect and enhance the Arboretum as a haven and sanctuary for native plants and animals. Located on the western edge of Memorial Park, this 155-acre urban nature sanctuary encourages visitors to slow down and enjoy the natural world. One of the first nature education facilities for children in the state of Texas, the Arboretum proudly welcomes over 10,000 school children and 500,000 visitors annually.

Please visit our website for further information on the history, people, and programs of the Arboretum. http://www.houstonarboretum.org/

Job Description

The Arboretum seeks a creative, engaging, and adaptable educator to join the Education Team of Naturalists. Arboretum Naturalists design and deliver meaningful environmental education experiences that seek to improve the environmental literacy of a diverse audience. Naturalists use the Arboretum trails and ecosystems as a classroom to create a connection with the natural world for students; this position requires a balance between computer work and outdoor work, and Houston’s climate creates challenging teaching conditions at times. The ideal candidate has enthusiasm, a positive attitude, and a collaborative spirit while working in a team setting with staff and volunteers to support the Arboretum’s mission.

This is a full-time position, Tuesday-Saturday schedule, with occasional evening events and assistance in staff-wide Arboretum events throughout the year.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare, and lead educational, interpretive, hands-on programs
• Guide participants on trails and grounds of the Houston Arboretum
• Recruit, train, and support contract facilitators
• Collaborate with the Education Director and fellow Naturalist staff to adapt and respond to feedback
• Commit to accessibility, equity, and inclusion for a diverse community of students of all ages
• Lead by example and serve as a role model for environmental literacy and stewardship
• Always ensure safety of all participants and model Leave No Trace principles
• Properly use, maintain, and organize all supplies, equipment, and facilities
• Actively participate in special events and fundraising efforts
• Work a flexible schedule, including some evenings and weekends

Physical Requirements

• The ability to lift up to 25 pounds regularly
• The ability to move safely over uneven terrain
• The ability to climb stairs
• The ability to work frequently outdoors
• The ability to wear a facemask during working hours and follow all procedures, regulations, and safety measures put in place related to COVID-19.

Education and Experience

• Degree in Education, Environmental, Biological Sciences, or related field
• Passion for the natural history of Harris County and Gulf Coast
• Ability to work and communicate effectively with others to build mutual respect
• Demonstrated ability to be self-motivated and flexible
• Ability to work creatively and resourcefully within a determined budget
• Ability to manage classroom environment and assistants, both volunteer and contract, in a positive manner
• Ability to define problems, collect feedback, establish facts, and present viable solutions to the EducationDirector
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office

How to Apply

Submit application by Oct. 31, 2023

Please send a cover letter and resume to:

Tiffany Ritter, Education Director Houston Arboretum & Nature Center tritter@houstonarboretum.org