Seasonal Education Assistant
About the role
Founded in 1924 by mining pioneer William Boyce Thompson, Boyce Thompson Arboretum is Arizona's oldest and largest botanical garden. Situated on 374 breathtaking acres at the base of Picket Post Mountain and bordering the Tonto National Forest in Superior, Arizona, the Arboretum offers a truly unique work environment unlike any other. Our living collection showcases extraordinary plants from the world's deserts and arid regions alongside the native beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Every day brings opportunities to experience nature firsthand, with miles of scenic trails, spectacular mountain views, and abundant wildlife throughout the grounds. It's not unusual to encounter javelina, bobcats, roadrunners, hummingbirds, and a variety of native and migratory birds while working and exploring the Arboretum. As an independent nonprofit organization, we're united by a shared passion for conservation, education, horticulture, and creating meaningful experiences for our visitors. We value teamwork, stewardship, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. Located just 30 minutes from Mesa and one hour from downtown Phoenix, Boyce Thompson Arboretum offers the opportunity to build a rewarding career while enjoying the beauty, adventure, and tranquility of the Arizona outdoors. If you're looking for more than just a job—and want to be part of a community that inspires connection with nature every day—we'd love to hear from you.
The Education Assistant will have a passion for the environment and experiential education. This individual will be an integral part of the Education Department. The ideal candidate will be knowledgeable about desert ecology, teaching, and love working with people, especially children. The Education Assistant will support Youth Program and Family Program delivery, execution of Adult Workshops and Speakers, and outreach programs. The Education Assistant provides direct support to the Education department, which includes the Education Director, Volunteer and Visitor Engagement Coordinator, Education Coordinator, and Outreach Coordinator.
Responsibilities
- Operate on-site visitor engagement stations such as discovery carts, nature play, story time and other educational activities.
- Work with the Education Team to prepare materials for teacher professional development, docent training, volunteer training, discovery tables, school field trips, school outreach, group tours, family programming, education special events, and adult education classes.
- Preparation of materials including printed collateral, packing of instructional bins, set up on grounds, etc.
- Assist with the administrative tasks including participant registration,