Outdoor Educator

Organization Overview

Blue Hill Observatory & Science Center is dedicated to fostering public understanding of Earth’s weather, climate, and environmental systems. Located atop Great Blue Hill just south of Boston, the Observatory was founded in 1885 and maintains the most extensive and consistent climate record in North America. The Observatory's mission is to advance climate research and understanding through Earth system science research, education, and outreach.

About the Role

Blue Hill Observatory is seeking a passionate and knowledgeable Outdoor Educator to support our newly developed and redesigned STEM-based programming for K-12 students. In this role, Outdoor Educators will engage students during their field experiences at the Observatory, leading educational hikes that focus on local ecosystems and changes to the environment. During all education programs, Outdoor Educators are responsible for fostering a connection between nature and educational development for program participants. Volunteers in this role will be trained on the various programming and instruction, with an opportunity to observe the program in action, prior to leading a program themselves. You should consider volunteering if you are eager to create a positive and inclusive outdoor learning environment for all K-12 students, encouraging curiosity, exploration, and respect for the natural world.

This volunteer opportunity offers flexible hours ranging from 4 to 20 hours per week, depending on your schedule and our program needs. The Director of STEM Education will work closely with the Outdoor Educator to create a schedule that is mutually beneficial. Programs typically run 2 times a week, Monday - Friday, from 9:00am - 1:30pm. Fall programming runs from September 1 - November 29, 2024.

Responsibilities

Implement curricula and programming that align with NGSS standards, local school-based curriculum and science and engineering practices.

Lead guided hikes for K-12 students in and around Blue Hills (hikes vary in length but are usually around 0.5 - 2 miles).

Facilitate Observatory tours, sharing information about the history of the building, instruments and data collection at Blue Hill Observatory since 1885.

Consider volunteering if...

You have a background in education or working with K-12 students

You have the ability to manage groups of students in an outdoor environment

You are comfortable hiking on uneven terrain and in various weather conditions while safely leading a group of students

Other Requirements

Volunteers must successfully complete a CORI and SORI Background Check.

Interested volunteers should submit a brief letter of inquiry outlining relevant experience to Krista Fincke kfincke@bluehill.org, subject line: Outdoor Educator.