Nature Educator (Part-time)

Join the City of Hillsboro Parks & Recreation team as a Nature Educator (Part-time) for the Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve. As a Nature Educator, you'll foster connections between community members and the rich natural resources in their surroundings. Working collaboratively with people of all ages and abilities as part of the Jackson Bottom team, you'll play a vital role in inspiring and engaging others with nature.
As a Nature Educator, your responsibilities will include delivering nature-based programs across various outdoor settings, area schools, community events, and other City of Hillsboro facilities. Your impact will contribute to helping the community develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world around them.
Nestled within the city limits of Hillsboro, the Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve spans 635 acres, offering a unique wildlife preserve experience. From interpretive education on wetlands and wildlife to panoramic views, natural resource management, trails, and recreation, Jackson Bottom is a regional treasure. Join our team and be part of an environment where we value connecting water, wildlife, and people through meaningful experiences.
What You'll Do
As a Nature Educator, your role involves collaborating with the Jackson Bottom team to facilitate hands-on outdoor education programs and events, emphasizing inclusive, place-based, and STEAM learning. We specialize in crafting unique educational experiences that resonate with a diverse audience, from preschoolers to adults, with a particular focus on younger learners.
In addition to executing established programs, you'll have the exciting opportunity to innovate and develop new programming. Our Nature Educators are characterized by creativity, dedication, and a commitment to fostering inclusion while respecting diverse voices, backgrounds, and ideas.
Programs span a variety of formats, including in-class/field sessions, summer camps, school field trips, science-based classes, and mobile programs through our Wetlands on Wheels (WOW) initiative. Explore more about our nature-based programming at Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve Programs.
Key Responsibilities

• Community Engagement: Play a pivotal role in delivering free and accessible programming to the Hillsboro community through public engagement at parks, natural areas, and various City of Hillsboro events and facilities.
• Event Support: Contribute to seasonal events at the Jackson Bottom Wetlands Nature Center by crafting and leading engaging experiences for participants.
• Camp Leadership: Take the lead implementing camp curriculum, fostering outdoor exploration, and facilitating hands-on learning experiences for youth.
• Nature Programming: Develop and deliver nature-focused programming at Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve, adhering to guidelines and working under the supervision of the Program Supervisor.

For more details, please click on this link for job classification description: Recreation Instructor II

• High School Diploma or GED; AND some related work experience; OR
• Any combination of experience and training which provides the equivalent scope of knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the work.

Licenses/Certifications

• Valid Driver's License and a safe driving record

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in an environmental related field is helpful
• Bilingual Spanish communication skills would be highly desirable

The City of Hillsboro recognizes that some applicants, particularly women, people with disabilities, and people of color do not always apply for positions unless they directly meet all the qualifications. We greatly encourage you to apply and welcome applicants from diverse and varied backgrounds. Transferable skills WILL be considered when reviewing applications for meeting minimum qualifications.Hiring a workforce that reflects the diverse community we serve is essential to delivering exceptional City services and programs. The City of Hillsboro is committed to creating and supporting an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees to thrive. We value, respect, and empower employees as unique individuals with authentic voices and diverse ideas.
Bilingual incentive pay available
Preference may be given to candidates who are bilingual in Spanish/English.
Employees who can demonstrate the ability to speak Spanish, or any language spoken by over ten percent (10%) of City residents as documented by the most recent U.S. Census, at a proficiency level determined by a fluency test administered by the City, will receive a monthly premium of three percent (3%) of their regular base pay.
Schedule Overview:
At Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve, programming and staff schedules are thoughtfully crafted quarterly to align with upcoming needs, ensuring ample preparation time. Schedules will be provided with a minimum 3-month lead time. Anticipate a Wednesday through Saturday work schedule, with a minimum of 20 assigned hours per week. During peak seasons, such as Spring/Summer, expect busier periods averaging closer to 29 hours per week. Be prepared for engaging offsite programming responsibilities during these seasons.
Part-Time Benefits (for those regularly scheduled to work 20+ hours per week):
Enjoy the perks of a Part-time, benefited position. For details on eligible benefits, please refer to the Part-time 2024 Employee Benefits Guide.
Tentative Recruitment Timeline*
Application Opens:December 11, 2023Application Closes:January 7, 2024Application Reviews:Week of January 7, 2024Round 1 Interviews:Week of January 17, 2024*This schedule is subject to change based on City of Hillsboro needs.
Employment Type: Part Time