Program Specialist

About Mass Audubon
Mass Audubon is the largest nature-based conservation organization in New England. Founded in 1896 by two women who fought for the protection of birds, Mass Audubon carries on their legacy by focusing on the greatest challenges facing the environment today: the loss of biodiversity, inequitable access to nature, and climate change. With the help of our 160,000 members and supporters, we protect wildlife, conserve and restore resilient land, advocate for impactful environmental policies, offer nationally recognized education programs for adults and children, and provide endless opportunities to experience the outdoors at our wildlife sanctuaries. Explore, find inspiration, and take action at massaudubon.org.

About This Position
Program specialists in the Education department commit the majority of their time supporting the coordination of program development/design in one or more specific audience and/or focus areas (school and youth programs, climate change education, adult education, visitor education and interpretation, etc.).The Program Specialist may help to manage program specific budgets with support from a Lead Education Coordinator and/or Education Manager. The Program Specialist also spends time teaching education and engagement programs in accordance with Mass Audubon’s Action Agenda strategic priorities and Mass Audubon’s education frameworks, goals, standards, and practices.

Application Instructions
Please submit a resume and cover letter with your ADP application.

Responsibilities

Management

• Plan, coordinate and market programs according to Mass Audubon standards and practices
• Maintain accurate records of programs, program participants, and education files according to Mass Audubon policy, state regulations, and accreditation standards, as appropriate

Education

• Develop and implement lessons and activities for specific audiences and/or focus areas with demonstrated skills in culturally responsive teaching and learning as well as universal design for accessibility
• Prepare and conduct activities for community engagement activities, events, and other related educational activities; work in collaboration with Statewide Education Managers to ensure program alignment and best practice
• Implement program evaluation tools according to Mass Audubon guidelines and practices
• Maintain updated curricula, instructional materials, educational supplies, and resources
• Maintain the safety of all participants and staff as a priority
• Serve as a trusted resource on natural history, legislative priorities, conservation science issues including climate change and biodiversity for visitors, program participants, other staff, and volunteers
• Assist in the development of educational programs and activities outside of specific area, as needed

Marketing and Public/Community Relations

• Participate in the planning, writing, and preparation of audience specific program catalogs, site-based informational brochures, and education related publications, including e-communications
• Represent Mass Audubon’s mission, programs, and conservation priorities to visitors, program participants and members of the community

Other

• Attend regional staff meetings and actively participate in statewide education staff meetings, audience professional learning communities, and professional development trainings as required
• Support membership development and fundraising, as requested by Regional Director, Regional Education Manager, or Regional Development staff member

Qualifications
At Mass Audubon, our highest priority is finding the best candidate for the job. Research has shown that people of color and women are less likely to apply for jobs if they don’t believe they meet every one of the qualifications described in a job description. We encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of our described qualifications or you have a less traditional background. We are looking for applicants with the following qualifications:

Must Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in education, biological, earth science, environmental studies, or equivalent, and a minimum of three years’ experience in conducting educational programs; or Master’s degree in education, biological, earth science, environmental studies, or equivalent or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Ability to work well with staff and volunteers
• Strong communication skills
• Valid driver’s license
• Ability to relate to a diverse range of people and exercise cultural competence and inclusion
• Ability to establish inclusive and welcoming Mass Audubon presence in communities where we implement education programming
• Requires First Aid and CPR certification upon hire
• Strong Swimming and Kayaking abilities

Nice to Haves

• Lifeguard Certification

Compensation, Benefits and Perks
This position’s pay range is $22.90-$25.67/hour; actual salary will reflect level of experience and qualifications relative to position requirements. This position may be eligible for health insurance benefits.

Work Schedule
This position begins on June 12, 2025 and ends on October 16, 2025. Variable hours, typically 25 hours per week, Monday-Friday. Tuesday evening program availability and some other variable evenings and weekends as needed may be requested.

Other Requirements
Employees must successfully complete a CORI and SORI Background Check and a Motor Vehicle Record (if applicable) is required.

Mass Audubon’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Justice
Mass Audubon embraces diversity and equal opportunity in a serious way. We are dedicated to forming a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. People of color are strongly encouraged to apply.

Mass Audubon’s mission is to “protect the nature of Massachusetts for people and for wildlife” by building a strong coalition of employees, volunteers, and community members. We recognize that the environmental movement and field of conservation have been affected by societal systems that have limited opportunity and access for many people. As a result, Mass Audubon is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. We are engaged in an ongoing process of organizational assessment and change, designed to remove barriers and create a workplace where all forms of diversity are recognized and valued.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Mass Audubon is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. Mass Audubon prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.