Youth Education On-Call Instructor

About The Job

Lead engaging, hands-on plant science programs for children in a variety of settings, including Arboretum field trips, Plantmobile outreach visits to schools and community sites, and, if interested, optional summer day camp instruction.

Responsibilities

• Deliver engaging, hands-on plant science field trip programs for school and community groups visiting the Arboretum.
• Drive the Plantmobile to schools and community sites and deliver high-quality, one-hour plant science outreach programs for groups of up to 30 children.
• Create a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment for all participants.
• Communicate positively and professionally with teachers, parents, volunteers, and other program partners.
• Prepare, transport, set up, maintain, and restock program materials and supplies.
• Delegate tasks and provide guidance to volunteers when appropriate.
• Serve in both lead instructor and assistant instructor roles, depending on program needs.
• Provide feedback and suggestions to support continuous program improvement.

Work Schedule

• Commitment: On-call/as needed
• Hours: Flexible; schedules vary seasonally and from week to week.
• Most instructors work approximately 1–3 days per week, with fewer opportunities during the winter and increased demand during the spring and fall.
• Positions are limited to 67 workdays per calendar year.
• Early morning availability is occasionally required.
• Summer day camp work is available but optional.

Qualifications

• Required:
• Bachelor's degree in education, horticulture, natural sciences, or a related field.
• Experience teaching in a classroom or informal education setting.
• Ability to teach with energy, clarity, and flexibility.
• Enthusiasm for working with children, including patience, creativity, and a sense of humor.
• Strong organizational and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to walk, bend, kneel, and lift up to 20 pounds while working both indoors and outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
• Successful completion of a background check.
• Valid driver's license with a good driving record.
• Desired:
• Willingness to play games, use puppets, sing songs, and embrace messy, hands-on learning experiences.
• Knowledge of plants, gardening, environmental education, and child development.

Pay And Benefits

• Pay Range: $19.00 - $21.00 per hour; depending on education/qualifications/experience.
• Retailment plan options are available for Civil Service, Faculty, Labor-Represented, Professional & Administrative, and Temp Casual classifications.

How To Apply

To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume. Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section. To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.