Field Teacher (Coastal Programs, Pre-K and Kindergarten)

About Mass Audubon
Mass Audubon is the largest nature-based conservation organization in New England. Founded in 1896 by two women who fought for the protection of birds, Mass Audubon carries on their legacy by focusing on the greatest challenges facing the environment today: the loss of biodiversity, inequitable access to nature, and climate change. With the help of our 160,000 members and supporters, we protect wildlife, conserve and restore resilient land, advocate for impactful environmental policies, offer nationally recognized education programs for adults and children, and provide endless opportunities to experience the outdoors at our wildlife sanctuaries. Explore, find inspiration, and take action at massaudubon.org.

About This Position
We are looking for experienced educators who are enthusiastic about working with Pre-K and Kindergarten-aged children in school and out of school, are highly motivated, love to be outdoors, and dedicated to environmental education and deeply committed to equity in access to nature. Field Teachers serve as team members within Mass Audubon’s Northeast Region and work with Education Coordinators to develop and implement hands-on, youth-driven, nature-based programming for schools, after school programs, community groups, and families. Field Teacher work to ensure educational and outreach outcomes and promote Mass Audubon’s mission of protecting the nature of Massachusetts for wildlife and people. The ideal candidate will also support Mass Audubon’s commitment to climate change education, equity, and justice and bring a diverse range of experiences, expressions, and views to their work. Our Northeast Region includes Joppa Flats in Newburyport, Ipswich River in Topsfield, and Endicott Preschool in Wenham.

Application Instructions
Please submit a resume and cover letter with your ADP application.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate/lead groups of 10-15 program participants in hands-on, outdoor, nature-based learning experiences at our sanctuaries and through outreach to schools and community organizations including programs and lessons based in marine, forest, pond, field, and wetland habitats
• Work with Education Coordinators to develop and deliver nature-based educational programs to schools, after school programs, community groups and families
• Have familiarity with and understanding of Massachusetts curriculum standards and how to implement into outdoor education programming in support of classroom curricula and at the appropriate level for the age and development of program participants
• Assist with the planning and development of new programs and activities as needed
• Participate in Field Teacher trainings and professional development opportunities
• Monitor program participants in all types of outdoor environments and ensure the safety and comfort of all participants
• Maintain a professional work environment, which includes equipment cleanup and storage of program gear and materials
• Convey Mass Audubon’s mission, Action Agenda and educational philosophies throughout all programs

Qualifications
At Mass Audubon, our highest priority is finding the best candidate for the job. Research has shown that people of color and women are less likely to apply for jobs if they don’t believe they meet every one of the qualifications described in a job description. We encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of our described qualifications or you have a less traditional background. We are looking for applicants with the following qualifications:

Must Haves

• At least 18 years of age
• Bachelor’s Degree (in process or completed) preferably in education, environmental education or related field, including formal or informal background in natural history, environmental education and/or science education, or equivalent experience
• Experience teaching early education (ages 1.5 through 6) in formal and non-formal settings
• Strong organizational, time management, oral, and written communication skills
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills
• Demonstrate a positive attitude and work collaboratively as a positive contributor to the team
• Skills and ability to work with diverse groups, exercise cultural humility, and implement best practices in inclusion

Nice to Haves

• Experience as an educator, working with a variety of audiences, including school groups (preK-12) community groups, and/or families in inquiry-based teaching and learning
• Experience teaching marine biology, coastal ecology or similar topics or leading field trips on the seacoast
• Experienced birder or experience leading birding walks with groups
• Proficiency in standard business software, such as Microsoft Office or G Suite
• Valid driver’s license

Compensation, Benefits and Perks
This position’s pay range is $18.48-$20.79/hour; actual salary will reflect level of experience and qualifications relative to position requirements. This is not a benefits eligible position.

Work Schedule
Typical hours are Monday-Friday, 0-20 hours per week with occasional work in the evenings, on weekends, and during holidays. This assignment begins in September 2025 and ends in December 2025. Interested candidates are welcome to reapply for the 2026 spring and winter seasons. High seasons for programming run from late September through early November and late March through early June. During these high-volume program times, a minimum availability of 2 days per week is required.

Other Requirements
Employees must successfully complete a CORI and SORI Background Check and a Motor Vehicle Record (if applicable) is required.

Mass Audubon’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Justice
Mass Audubon embraces diversity and equal opportunity in a serious way. We are dedicated to forming a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. People of color are strongly encouraged to apply.

Mass Audubon’s mission is to “protect the nature of Massachusetts for people and for wildlife” by building a strong coalition of employees, volunteers, and community members. We recognize that the environmental movement and field of conservation have been affected by societal systems that have limited opportunity and access for many people. As a result, Mass Audubon is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. We are engaged in an ongoing process of organizational assessment and change, designed to remove barriers and create a workplace where all forms of diversity are recognized and valued.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Mass Audubon is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. Mass Audubon prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.