Join Our Team We are an environmental education organization on the Potomac River, dedicated to connecting people from all walks of life to the natural world through education, stewardship, and advocacy. Join our team and be part of this mission! Our Statement of Values Diversity, equity, and inclusion are integral to every aspect of our work and all levels of staff and governance. We honor and respect the beliefs, attitudes, languages, interpersonal styles, and values of all individuals. Our efforts focus on enhancing opportunities for people with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives to collaborate and achieve the mission of the Alice Ferguson Foundation. Tell us your story Explore our open positions below and determine if joining our team is the perfect fit for you. Please send all inquiries to apply@fergusonfoundation.org Environmental Educator for Southern Maryland +

Job Title:

Environmental Educator for

Southern Maryland Organization:

Alice Ferguson Foundation, Accokeek, MD Classification:

Part-Time, In-Person Regular or Temporary:

Regular Reports to:

Director of Programs and Program Manager Compensation:

$17-$19 (commensurate on experience) About the Alice Ferguson Foundation The Alice Ferguson Foundation is celebrating 72 years as an environmentally driven non-profit, 501c3 organization. Our mission is to inspire environmental stewardship by giving people the tools to understand, appreciate, and protect nature. Located on 330 acres of emergent wetlands, forests, meadows, farmland, and the longest freshwater Living Shoreline in the nation, our team has provided transformative environmental education experiences for over 1 million area students since 1954. Position Summary Join our team of Environmental Educators to lead engaging, hands-on field studies for high school students. Programs will be conducted on weekdays, primarily in public schools throughout Charles County & St. Mary's County. Our environmental education experiences are designed to promote stewardship of natural resources through NGSS-aligned lessons and Meaningful Watershed Educational Experiences (MWEE). Topics include watersheds, habitats, farms, water quality, climate change, invasive species, and team-building, all while highlighting the natural environment and cultural heritage of the Potomac River watershed. Qualifications and Skills A high school diploma is required. A Bachelor's degree in science, environmental or interdisciplinary studies, or a related field is preferred. Minimum 1-2 years of relevant teaching experience and classroom management (preferably outdoors) A working knowledge of natural history, science, ecology, and the watershed Ability to implement and model excellent risk management practices and maintain a safe environment for all students and participants in variable terrain Ability to perform physical work in the outdoors and in all weather conditions Commitment to equity, inclusion, and diversity within your teaching and our community A willingness to be coached and openness to feedback Effective communication and interpersonal skills Flexibility and enthusiasm, problem-solving skills, and excellent work ethic Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends Current First Aid and CPR certification, or willingness to obtain upon hire Proficiency in Spanish is strongly preferred Valid driver's license with access to a vehicle for travel Employment is contingent upon an employee background check Physical Requirements Ability to work outdoors in all weather types Ability to lead hikes on different terrain Ability to lift up to 40 lbs Ability to speak, hear, and use a computer for standard business communications Primary Duties and Responsibilities Deliver environmental education programming inside and outside of the classroom to high school students in the Southern Maryland Region, specifically Charles County and St. Mary's County. Potential to assist with onsite environmental education programming in Accokeek, Maryland, in Prince George's County. Plan and deliver environmental education programming tailored to the needs of each group Provide opportunities for students to engage in hands-on learning Lead by example to demonstrate positive and responsible behavior Manage participant safety in outdoor settings using sound judgment and application of risk management policies and guidelines; administer and document first aid as needed Actively participate in the team community by participating in meetings, support activities, and training as assigned Engage in evaluations and assessments of program success to promote personal growth and learning Responsible for setting up the program materials and cleaning up the program spaces Assist with data collection and administrative tasks as assigned. Flexibility to work throughout the week Opportunities to participate and represent the Foundation at events (Examples include litter cleanups, educational workshops, fundraising events, and outreach events) Opportunities to assist with the farm animals, trail maintenance, and the children's garden Professional Standards of Conduct Environmental Education & Curriculum Delivery Deliver engaging, age-appropriate programs aligned with the Alice Ferguson Foundation (AFF) curriculum and the Meaningful Watershed Educational Experience (MWEE) framework. Demonstrate knowledge of the Potomac River Watershed and effectively communicate the importance of environmental stewardship. Encourage participants to connect with and feel comfortable in nature. Classroom Management Create inclusive learning environments that engage all participants and encourage them to ask questions. Provide balanced hands-on activities and verbal education Adjust programs to meet age-appropriate standards and learning needs. Teamwork and Professionalism Work collaboratively with other educators and staff to achieve program goals. Show flexibility and adaptability in various teaching environments and conditions. Meet attendance and punctuality requirements consistently. Maintain confidentiality of privileged and sensitive information. Outdoor Techniques & Safety Utilize the environmental campus as a natural classroom to enhance learning experiences. Ensure participant safety by following established safety procedures and communicating concerns effectively. Set appropriate boundaries for activities to ensure safety and enjoyment. Dress appropriately for outdoor programming (long pants, closed-toe shoes, etc) Customer Service & Relationship Building Provide high-quality customer service to participants, educators, chaperones, parents, and administrators. Promote a positive and enthusiastic attitude while delivering programs. Effectively communicate the mission and values of the Alice Ferguson Foundation.

HOW TO APPLY

Send a cover letter and resume to apply@fergusonfoundation.org Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Questions? Contact Michelle Hickerson at mhickerson@fergusonfoundation.org Equal Opportunity Employer / Minorities / Female / Disabled / Veteran The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the individual(s) assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and skills required. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties and to assign other duties as necessary.