Wayfinders Summer Learning Environmental Educator

Maine Audubon seeks a part-time seasonal environmental educator to help implement a new summer program run in partnership with Portland Public Schools, Wayfinders Summer Learning. Since 1843, Maine Audubon has worked to conserve Maine wildlife and wildlife habitat by engaging people in education, conservation, and action, and its deep partnership with Portland Public Schools goes back over 40 years.

Wayfinders Summer Learning is a six-week summer program hosted via a partnership between Maine Audubon and Portland Public Schools. This new program is being developed and planned in anticipation of a federal grant intended to serve academically eligible 2nd through 5th grade students. The curriculum aims to get participating youth excited about STEM and nature through hands-on experiences while integrating literacy, social-emotional and leadership development, nutrition, outdoor recreation, and the arts.

Position Overview

We are seeking a seasonal educator based at Talbot Community School in Portland. This position reports to the Community-Based Education Program Manager, and is responsible for designing and delivering science-based, experiential education programs for children entering grades 2-5. Our programs are designed to foster environmental literacy and build connection to the natural world in a fun, safe, and welcoming environment. This position is pending grant funding we expect to confirm by mid-May, and there may be additional opportunities for environmental education work beyond the Wayfinders program.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop, prepare, and teach developmentally-appropriate day camp activities tied to Maine Audubon’s mission;

• Be able to communicate with and foster inclusive group dynamics for children entering grades 2-5;

• Support and lead other activities such a morning circle, lunch, and games;

• Collaborate with with Portland teaching staff;

• Set up and break down program equipment daily/weekly;

• Maintain safety standards and protocols, accident reports, and participant medical forms;

• Communicate professionally with caregivers during pickup and drop-off.

Qualifications

• Experience working with elementary school age children in outdoor settings, such as camp/environmental/experiential/outdoor education experience;

• Demonstrated commitment to equity and inclusive teaching practices, and/or experience working with multilingual learners;

• B.A./B.S. (or be working toward one) in education, biology, or environmental studies preferred;

• Enthusiasm, creativity, and flexibility, along with the ability to collaborate effectively with others;

• Knowledge of Maine flora, fauna, and ecological concepts;

• Must have or be willing to obtain Adult/Pediatric First Aid and CPR certification;

• Must pass a criminal background check.

We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet 100% of the requirements but believe that you would be a good fit for this position.

Physical Requirements/ Working Conditions

• Able to often lift objects up to 50 pounds when setting up program space;

• Able to work outdoors in all environmental and weather conditions.

Timing, Compensation, and Benefits

• Approx. 25 hours/week, June 22-August 13, 2026. This includes training, planning, and program set up and break-down.

• Wayfinders runs from 9 am to 1:30 pm, Monday through Thursday, beginning July 6, 2026. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply and to include details about availability in their cover letters.

• Possibility of up to 40 hours/week, August 17-28, 2026, working as an educator at Maine Audubon’s day camp in Falmouth, ME.

• Seasonal position with benefits including Maine Earned Time off, annual membership to Maine Audubon, and discounts in our Nature Stores

• Salary range: $19.00-21.00/hr

To apply: Please send resume and cover letter to Jane Affleck Fitz at jaffleckfitz@maineaudubon.org, with “Wayfinders Summer Learning" in the subject line. Review of applications will begin April 27th. The position is open until filled.

AI Notice: Applicants may use basic editing tools (e.g., spellcheck), but generative AI may not be used to create or draft resumes or cover letters. This helps ensure all candidates are evaluated based on their own qualifications. We provide reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. Please contact us if you need any accommodations to apply or participate in the hiring process.

Maine Audubon is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other aspect of identity protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Pay: $19.00 - $21.00 per hour

Work Location: In person

Salary : $19 - $21