Job Title: Nature Scientists School Programs Instructor
Organization: Environmental Volunteers
Location: EcoCenter (Palo Alto Baylands), with travel to schools in San Mateo & Santa Clara Counties
Reports to: Director of Programs & Partnerships
Schedule: Part-time, Non-Exempt, Monday - Friday, up to 20 hours/week
Compensation: $22-24 per hour, depending on experience

About Environmental Volunteers

Environmental Volunteers (EV) is an award-winning nonprofit with 50+ years of helping kids fall in love with nature. Through a network of trained volunteers, we deliver hands-on science programs in K-5 classrooms, on field trips, and at our EcoCenter, building curiosity, confidence, and environmental stewardship. 

Job Summary 

The part-time Nature Scientists School Programs Instructor will be responsible for delivering NGSS-aligned hands-on environmental education programs at local K-5 schools that promote the EV’s mission. Our school programs cover a wide variety of environmental topics, such as “Adaptations”, “Power Generation”, and “Human Impacts”, and take place across both San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties. Many of our programs are delivered to schools in underserved communities. Main responsibilities will include program delivery in classrooms and field trips, as well as supporting our volunteers to do so as well. This position will report to the Director of Programs & Partnerships. 

The ideal candidate is personable, enjoys working with volunteers, teachers, and students, and has had prior experience in an educational setting. Strong communication, organizational, and time management skills are essential. Experience with the specific topics we teach isn’t required as full training will be provided, but the ideal candidate has familiarity with science or environmental topics.

This is a part-time, contract position based at the EV EcoCenter in the Palo Alto Baylands, with regular travel to schools and field trip locations across both counties. The role typically requires 20 hours per week, with the potential to expand to up to 30 hours per week depending on program needs. This staff member may also be asked to participate in occasional weekend programs or projects. Weekly schedules will vary and be determined in advance based on program delivery.

Duties and Responsibilities

Nature Scientists (NS) School Program Delivery: (85%)

• Participate in NGSS-aligned curriculum training for all K-5 NS school programs
• Teach at least four NS programs per week (alongside a team of 3 trained volunteers)
• Serve as back-up instructor for volunteers as needed
• Act as the team leader for upcoming programs
• Assist with the organization and transportation of program materials to and from classrooms
• Support program evaluation through distribution of surveys, and other assessment tools

General Volunteer Support: (15%)

• Provide on-site support for volunteers at the EcoCenter, including materials check-out and return
• Provide occasional one-on-one training for new and returning volunteers
• Support program marketing and social media needs

At all times maintain commitment to, and active implementation of, the EV mission, values, & visions.

Typical Work Conditions and Travel

1. The majority of the instructor’s time will take place at local schools and field trip locations, as well as some regular trainings and project work at our EcoCenter

2. Regular weekly travel to schools is required; exact program assignments will vary

3. Typical schedule aligns with school hours (approximately 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM)

4. Role requires both computer-based work and active engagement in classroom environments

Position Requirements and Specifications

The ideal candidate will:

• Have excellent time management skills and the ability to work with a fluid schedule

• Be highly organized

• Be a strong communicator, both written and verbal

• Enjoy working with a diverse community of volunteers, educators, and students

• Be an enthusiastic and collaborative team player willing to take initiative

• Be comfortable using technology and willing to learn new tools (Google Workspace, Canva, etc)

• Have access to reliable transportation (required for travel between sites)

Preferred:

• Experience in informal education, environmental education, or nature interpretation

• Spanish bilingual proficiency (strongly encouraged)

Important: Instructors will need to provide their own transportation to/from the schools and other sites in Santa Clara and San Mateo counties. In addition, all instructors must possess a valid California driver’s license and must submit proof of auto insurance. As a staff member working with children, each instructor also will need to be fingerprinted and to do a TB risk assessment; if warranted, a recent negative TB test may be required.

Apply:

Please send a resume and cover letter to programs@environmentalvolunteers.org with the subject line: Nature Scientists School Programs Instructor