Environmental Educator & Animal Care Assistant

About the role

The Environmental Educator & Animal Care Assistant is a key member of the Nature Center team, supporting both the Environmental Education and Animal Care departments. This mission-driven role is dedicated to educating, engaging, and inspiring the next generation to protect the environment while promoting responsible use, stewardship, and enjoyment of natural resources.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate strong communication, organization, planning, ability to work both independently & collaboratively, as well as time management skills in all aspects of the role.
• Maintain clean, safe, and organized animal care and work environments, both indoors and outside.
• Responsible for reviewing all guidelines for emergency procedures to ensure a prompt and appropriate response to any incident.
• Perform additional duties as assigned supervisors.

Environmental Education Responsibilities

• Collaborate with Nature Center teams to plan, develop, and deliver engaging programs that align with the Nature Center’s mission and meet the needs of diverse audiences, including visitors, school groups, afterschool programs, scout troops, summer camps, etc.
• Assist and lead programs both onsite at the Nature Center and offsite at schools, community locations, and partner organizations.
• Design, implement, and continuously improve curriculum, lesson plans, interpretive exhibits, and educational materials.
• Utilize and help maintain indoor and outdoor learning environments, including forests, wetlands, gardens, and indoor spaces such as Vine Hall, the Lab, EcoZone, the Greenhouse, and Creature Corner, ensuring they remain safe, organized, and engaging for participants.
• Adapt teaching methods and content to meet the needs of different age groups, learning styles, and program settings.
• Support the ongoing growth and visibility of the Nature Center by contributing to new program ideas and community outreach efforts.

Animal Care Responsibilities

• Under the supervision of Lead Animal Care Specialist, ensure the safe and effective care of all animals in accordance with policies established by the South Shore YMCA Nature Center.
• Assist the Animal Care team with routine operations, including but not limited to feedings, habitat/tank cleaning, and enrichment activities for all animals (primarily reptiles and birds of prey).
• Support educational programming by incorporating animal ambassadors in a safe, appropriate, and engaging manner.
• Accurately document and communicate all completed tasks (e.g., feedings, cleanings, enrichment) in each animal’s log/chart, and promptly report any concerns, changes in behavior, or urgent issues to the Lead Animal Care Specialist.
• Maintain familiarity with and follow all animal care protocols, including emergency action plans, handling procedures, and cleaning guidelines.
• Respond to incidents calmly, professionally, and in accordance with established procedures.
• Identify and report faulty equipment or maintenance concerns in a timely manner.

Qualifications

• Education & Experience: Bachelor degree in environmental science, wildlife biology, natural history, or related field preferred. Experience teaching in a formal or informal education setting preferred, including demonstrated experience effectively teaching and working with children and adults. Experience working with, caring for, and handling animals (including reptiles) professionally and/or personally preferred.
• Technical & Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication, interpersonal, customer service, and business correspondence skills including editing and proofreading. Proficiency in modern business software: including Microsoft Office Suite, CRM systems, and A.I..
• Professional & Interpersonal Skills: High level of professionalism, discretion, and integrity when handling sensitive and confidential information. Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships across teams, program participants, and community members. Experience working with and understanding diverse populations, including various cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.