Nature Scientists School Programs Coordinator

Job Title: Nature Scientists School Programs Coordinator

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 (with occasional weekends), up to 20 hours/week

Compensation: $26 per hour, competitive benefits package

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 Coordinator will be responsible for supporting the delivery of the 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. Responsibilities will include assisting in teacher communication throughout the school year, working with volunteers to ensure delivery of programs, and participating in direct education program delivery as needed. This position will report to the Director of Programs & Partnerships. 

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, personable, and enjoys working with volunteers, teachers, and students. Strong communication, organizational, and time management skills are essential, along with comfort using data systems and tools such as Google Workspace. Experience with the specific topics we teach isn’t required as full training will be provided, but the ideal candidate has familiarity with environmental science, ecology, or basic science.

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 the actual program schedule.

Duties and Responsibilities

Nature Scientists (NS) School Program Delivery: (30%)

• Participate in NGSS-aligned curriculum training for all K-5 NS school programs
• Teach at least two NS programs per week (alongside a team of 3 trained volunteers)
• Act as the team leader for upcoming programs, or support volunteers learning how to be team leaders
• Assist with the organization and transportation of program materials to and from classrooms 

Nature Scientists School Program Planning: (50%)

• Manage communication with teachers, including pre-program confirmations and post-program evaluations
• Coordinate program logistics, including volunteer scheduling and coverage
• Provide general administrative support for school-based programs

General Volunteer Support: (20%)

• Provide on-site support for volunteers at the EcoCenter, including materials check-out and return
• Assist with volunteer recruitment, training, and retention efforts
• Provide occasional one-on-one training for new and returning volunteers

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

Typical Work Conditions and Travel

1. Work will take place at the EcoCenter, local schools, and field trip locations
2. Regular weekly travel to schools is required (up to four off-site programs per week)
3. Typical schedule aligns with school hours (approximately 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM), with some flexibility
4. Role requires both computer-based work and active engagement in classroom environments

Position Requirements and Specifications

The ideal candidate will:

• Be highly organized, detail-oriented, and reliable in meeting deadlines
• 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, Salesforce, Canva, Gusto, Mailchimp, 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)

Apply:

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