Position Summary
The Educator-Naturalist will assist in developing and executing conservation-based school, community education programs, and volunteer programs. In addition, this position will assist with daily operations, educational exhibits, and in the stewardship of the Center and properties. The member will assist in the educational aspects of the Center and Sanctuaries. Throughout the year, the AmeriCorps member will assist with teaching school and public based conservation education classes that serve suburban and urban populations from the region. Focusing on topics such as Marsh ecology, bird conservation, and the Hudson River, the AmeriCorps member will help reach approximately 1200 students and adults and provide roughly 6,000 education contact hours. Additionally, the AmeriCorps member will be assisting in the daily operations of the Nature Center that will reach another 3,000 people through Center visitors and hikers.
Location
Garrison, NY
Schedule
April 13, 2026 - September 18, 2026
Key Duties and Responsibilities
The SCA member will assist in and work closely with other education staff to develop and execute conservation-based school and community education programs; Work with revising lesson plans and curriculum; Prepare lesson plans/curriculum, program set-up and clean-up, and program evaluation; Maintain inventory, condition and organization of educational materials, supplies and equipment; develop and execute conservation-based education through Center visitation, public canoe trips and school groups; Assist with daily operations and light maintenance of center properties, including general housekeeping, lawn and trail upkeep; Participate in other conservation efforts, science research, and restoration work that includes learning how to collect and identify invertebrates in the field, eel monitoring, invasive species control, conducting plant surveys, or marsh birds surveys.
Marginal Duties
They will also be required to develop a sound understanding of; Wetland management, Wetland ecology, Forest and grassland ecology, Invasive species control, Native Bird and wildlife communities and Non-profit operations.
Required Qualifications
- Undergraduate, or equivalent experience focused in Outdoor Education, Wildlife Biology, or related field.
- Excellent interpersonal/communication skills with adults & children a must.
- Ability to work well as part of the team.
- Attention to detail, excellent time-management and organizational skills
- Be flexible and motivated
- Must be comfortable working outdoors in variable weather conditions
- Personal Transportation is required
- Member must have a valid driver's license and clean driving record of 3+ years
Preferred Qualifications
Prior teaching experience is preferred. Canoeing experience preferred.
Hours
40 per week
Living Accommodations
Member will have a private room in accommodations on site at Constitution March Audubon Center and Sanctuaries.
Compensation
Amount of the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award being offered for successful completion of the member’s term of service: $3,697.50; Amount of Living Allowance member will receive: $440/week, and Free housing provided on site
All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
Personal Vehicle Information
Required
Additional Benefits
Healthcare coverage (if applicable): Eligible for free health insurance
Childcare coverage (if applicable): Eligible for childcare assistance through AmeriCorps
Student loan forbearance and interest payments, (if the member qualifies): Eligible for Federal Student Loan forbearance and interest payment deferment through AmeriCorps for qualifying student loans
AmeriCorps and SCA Training
SCA Risk Management
Sexual Harassment/Drug Abuse in the Workplace
Mental Health First Aid Training
Environmental Leadership Institute
New York State Outdoor Educator Association Conferences/Events
Hudson River Ecology
Leave No Trace Level I Certification
Professional Development & Job Readiness
Defensive Drive Training
AmeriCorps: Eligible/Required
Equal Opportunity Statement
The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.