Job Location

Newport Beach, Orange County, California
(Some programs may also take place at ENC Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary in Modjeska Canyon.)

Position Details

The Environmental Nature Center (ENC) is seeking a passionate and reliable Naturalist to teach outdoor environmental and social science education programs to children. The Naturalist’s goals are to foster students’ awareness and appreciation of the natural world, deepen their understanding of science concepts, and encourage lifelong environmental stewardship.

This position involves teaching structured, standards-aligned programs for school groups, camps, scouts, birthday parties, and community programs, as well as developing and implementing age- and theme-appropriate curriculum.

The Naturalist works under the direct supervision of the Education Director and collaborates closely with education staff.

This is a part-time position with variable hours depending on the season and program schedule.

Compensation

• $20/hour

• Part-time, non-exempt

• All Naturalists begin at the same starting rate

Essential Functions & Duties

• Teach on-site science and social science programs aligned with California State Standards

• Lead programs for school groups, scouts, birthday parties, overnights, and community groups

• Teach Nature Camps as scheduled, including:

  • Attending required camp trainings

  • Writing and submitting camp curricula in advance

  • Participating in post-camp evaluations and feedback sessions

  • Providing short marketing descriptions of camp themes

• Develop and implement environmental education curriculum and instructional materials

• Supervise students at all times, maintaining the highest standards of safety

• Set up and clean up instructional materials before and after programs

• Communicate professionally with parents, teachers, and visitors

• Follow program budgets and coordinate purchases through supervisors

• Identify and report safety hazards; close trails if necessary

• Staff the front desk when requested

• Work occasional evenings, weekends, and mandatory special events

• Perform additional duties as assigned

Qualifications & Requirements

• Commitment to ENC’s mission, vision, and core values

• Ability to work independently, reliably, and flexibly

• Knowledge of California plants, animals, and local ecosystems (highly desirable)

• Knowledge of California Native Americans and local Indigenous history (highly desirable)

• Comfort handling live animals, including arthropods and snakes

• Strong memorization and communication skills

• Physical ability to:

  • Lift up to 50 pounds

  • Hike trails and traverse uneven terrain

  • Stand and work outdoors for 4+ hours

• Ability to respond calmly to student needs and emergency situations

• Willingness to work outdoors in varied weather conditions

• Regular, punctual attendance is essential

• Ability to work irregular hours, including occasional weekends and evenings

• Strong interpersonal skills with staff, students, parents, and volunteers

• Fingerprinting required

• Ability to communicate consistently via email and phone

• Computer experience (Macintosh and Microsoft Office) or willingness to learn

• Valid driver’s license required; personal vehicle preferred

Education, Training & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in science, education, or a related field preferred

• Minimum of three years’ experience working with children in environmental education or related settings

• Strong background in hands-on, thematic programming

• Ability to work effectively with students of varied ages, including adults

• CPR and First Aid certification required within two months of hire

How to Apply

Email application materials to:
lori@encenter.org

Questions? Call (949) 645-8489 ext. 103

Organization Website:
https://encenter.org