Education Instructor - The Holden Arboretum

Holden Forests & Gardens connects people with the wonder, beauty and value of trees and plants, to inspire action for healthy communities. When you join HF&G, you join a team of professionals who are passionate about improving Northeast Ohio's communities through our mission-driven programs.

Opportunity:

The Education Instructor inspires curiosity and a love of nature in students both on Holden Arboretum campus and in the wider community. Deliver engaging plant and science-based programs primarily for PreK-8 students during school field trips, camps, and site visits.

Key Responsibilities:

The key responsibilities of the Community & Youth Garden Educator include, but are not limited to:

• Supports Holden Forests & Gardens' mission, vision, values, and core commitment
• Deliver interactive, curriculum-aligned programs for school groups.
• Engage students in hands-on activities that promote environmental literacy.
• Maintain a safe, welcoming learning environment in both indoor and outdoor spaces.
• Attend training sessions to learn program content and safety protocols.
• Collaborate with Education team to ensure program quality and consistency.
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications & Skills:

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Environmental Science, Biology, or related field preferred
• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Experience teaching or working with children in formal or informal settings a plus
• Experience in customer service or front-facing roles a plus
• Ability to adapt teaching methods to diverse learning styles and age groups
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to manage groups effectively and maintain safety standards.
• Organizational skills for scheduling and programs
• Collaborative mindset and willingness to work as part of a team.
• Enthusiasm for environmental education and sustainability.
• Maintain a valid driver''s license and acceptable vehicle record
• Minimum 18 years of age
• Must have your own reliable transportation
• Must pass a criminal background check

Physical Requirements

Must be able to perform with or without reasonable accommodation:

• Stand and sit for extended periods of time
• Perform tasks in all weather conditions; temperatures may range from 0-100 F
• Effective vision and hearing
• Hand and arm dexterity
• Walk and work on wet, uneven, slippery terrain
• Kneel, bend, stoop, grab, and reach
• Regular lifting and carrying of up to 30 pounds, occasionally 45 pounds

Holden Forests & Gardens (HF&G) is a great place to work!

We offer Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits | Paid Time Off | 8 Paid Holidays a year + 3 floating holidays | 403(b) | Employee sponsored life insurance, long term disability and short-term disability | Work in a beautiful environment within Greater Cleveland | Discounts in our stores & cafes | Free parking at both campuses anytime we are open | Free admission to many Northeast Ohio Museums | Free Employee Assistance Program | And Much More!

How to Apply:

Qualified applicants should submit resume, cover letter, and 3 professional references. Candidates will start to be reviewed immediately and continue until the role is filled.

Holden Forests & Gardens is an equal opportunity employer and values an authentic sense of belonging at all levels of the organization, including staff, volunteers, Board of Directors, and visitors.