Environmental Education Program Assistant and Caretaker (2 positions)

Job Title: Environmental Education Program Assistant and Caretaker(2 positions)

Location: Hidden Lake and Loop Road Environmental Education Centers

Project Duration: Late November to early April

Hours Per Week: 32 hours, Mon-Fri

Hours Per Month: Flexible

Description of Duties: School groups from near and far visit Everglades National Park for either a one-day excursion or a two- or three-night stay in one of the park’s two Environmental Education Centers. Students hike, canoe and take part in a variety of programs, all while learning about Everglades ecosystems and the importance of protecting and preserving them. The Volunteer Environmental Education Assistants will carry out projects and duties that have a direct impact on the experience students have in the park. Help make the educational and recreational experiences students have become ones they will never forget!! Projects and duties include assisting with camp set-up at the start of the season, performing light maintenance on campground buildings and tent structures, and serving as “dock master”, which includes helping students safely enter and exit their canoes, preparing canoes for take-off, and canoeing with teachers and students. Other duties include assisting groups upon their arrival to camp and putting together teacher materials.

Benefits: Volunteers will gain intimate knowledge of a unique subtropical ecosystem and have an opportunity to explore and learn about the Everglades during a two-week training. Volunteers will also hone their maintenance and administrative skills, and will work with children in an educational environment. A uniform will be provided. RV sites are available for this position.

Goal/Outcome of Position: To provide for an enjoyable and educational camp experience for students.

Knowledge/Skills/Experience Desired: This work will be accomplished with minimal supervision and will involve working with education staff, teachers and volunteer work crews. Applicants should be comfortable canoeing and working with children.