Environmental education, outdoor education

Position: Nature Educator
Organization: Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre
Location: Cowichan Bay, near Duncan BC

About the Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre

The Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre (CENC) is located in Cowichan Bay on the unceded territory of the Quw’utsun People.

Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre is committed to fostering an inclusive, diverse, and respectful workplace that reflects the community we serve. We value the unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions of every individual and strive to create an environment where everyone feels welcomed, supported, and respected. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, abilities, and lived experiences who share our commitment to estuary stewardship.

You'll work in a unique learning environment where conservation, education, and community engagement come together to create meaningful impact.

This is an opportunity to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards while helping strengthen connections between schools, communities, and the Cowichan Estuary.

Position Overview

We are seeking an enthusiastic Environmental Educator to deliver engaging environmental education programs at the Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre and at schools throughout the Cowichan Valley. The Educator’s schedule will follow the school year calendar.

As our Educator, you will lead education programs for students, support field trips, while building positive relationships with School District 79, independent schools, and homeschool networks. The Educator helps gather feedback from participants and teachers and contributes ideas for program improvements.

Terms

This part-time role works Tuesday - Friday with hours dictated by programs and school bookings, The salary range is $25 - $30 per hour based on education and experience, with a minimum of 10 hours weekly guaranteed. This role follows the school calendar year, with time off at Christmas and Summer. The hours will grow as we continue to add education programs.

Key Responsibilities

Program Delivery

• Deliver engaging environmental education programs at the Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre and at schools throughout the Cowichan Valley.
• Lead hands-on, inquiry-based learning experiences focused on local ecology, biodiversity, conservation, climate literacy, and environmental stewardship.
• Adapt program content to suit different age groups, learning styles, and curriculum requirements.
• Create welcoming, inclusive, and safe learning environments for all participants.
• Incorporate outdoor learning, observation, exploration, and experiential activities into educational programming.
• Facilitate school field trips, classroom presentations, workshops, and community outreach events.

Relationship Building and Outreach

• Develop and maintain positive relationships with teachers, administrators, School District 79 staff, homeschool networks, and independent schools.
• Promote educational programs and identify opportunities to expand CENC's reach within the community.
• Serve as contact for schools and education partners.
• Work with a team of volunteers
• Represent CENC at community events, meetings, and educational gatherings.
• Foster partnerships that support environmental education and stewardship initiatives.
• Help create educational resources and interpretive materials.

Administration and Communications

• Collect participant feedback and program evaluation data.
• Document program highlights through photographs, stories, and participant experiences.
• Assist with reporting requirements and promotional content.
• Report safety concerns, incidents, or participant welfare concerns in a timely manner.

Preferred Qualifications

• Confidence working with children and youth in educational, outdoor, or community settings.
• Education or equivalent experience in Environmental Studies/Science, Biology/Marine Biology, Natural Resource Management, Geography, Geology, Chemistry, Sustainability.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Comfortable working both independently and as part of a team.
• Friendly, energetic, adaptable, and organized.

Personal Qualities

We are looking for someone who is:

• Passionate about environmental education and connecting people with nature.
• Friendly, energetic, and engaging.
• Adaptable and comfortable working in both indoor and outdoor settings.
• Creative and enthusiastic about experiential learning.
• Professional, reliable, and self-motivated.
• Comfortable working in varying weather conditions and outdoor environments.

Requirements

• Valid Class 5 Driver's License and access to reliable transportation for travel throughout the Cowichan Valley.
• Valid First Aid and CPR certification
• Successful Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Check.
• Ability to lift and transport educational materials and program equipment as required.

Apply to:

Please send your resume and cover letter to: info@cowichanestuary.ca

Attention: Managing Director

Please mention you saw this at GoodWork.ca.

Applications close Wednesday, September 16th.