Benefits:
401(k)
Employee discounts
Paid time off
Date posted: April 23, 2026
Pay: From $16.00 per hour
Job description:
Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium Fort Myers, FL
Job Type: Part-time Work Location: In person
Pay: Hourly, $16.00 an hour Schedule: 25-30 hours per week; weekends, holidays, and occasional evenings required Reports To: Education & Wildlife Director
About Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium
Calusa Nature Center and Planetarium (CNCP) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring people to connect with nature. CNCP serves the Southwest Florida community and visiting guests through the care of non-releasable rehabilitated wildlife, environmental education programs, astronomy experiences, and ecological stewardship.
Position Overview
The Environmental Education Specialist is a full-time position focused on delivering engaging and inspirational environmental education and outreach programs for diverse audiences. This role is responsible for leading field trip experiences, facilitating public program talks, and supporting a variety of educational initiatives that connect the community with wildlife and conservation. This position emphasizes hands-on teaching, interpretation, and meaningful public engagement through both on-site and outreach programming.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Education, Outreach & Guest Engagement
Present indoor and outdoor environmental education programs, field trips, workshops, birthday parties, camps, and outreach programs using live animal ambassadors and biofacts
Coordinate and lead field trips, workshops, and hands-on activities related to environmental science and conservation
Engage with guests of all ages, including school groups and special needs populations
Assist in education program creation, implementation, and evaluation
Assist with community outreach events, festivals, and off-site programs
Support interpretation of conservation messaging and CNCP’s mission
Participate in special events, fundraisers, and public programs as assigned
Assist in creating educational materials such as brochures, presentations, and digital content
Collaborate with educators, scientists, and community leaders to enhance program content and outreach
Additional Responsibilities
Assist with the training and supervision of interns and volunteers as needed
Assist with basic animal care duties as needed
Support special events, rentals, and fundraising activities
Follow all safety, animal welfare, and permit requirements
Perform other related duties as assigned
Qualifications & Requirements
Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree or relevant experience in biology, zoology, environmental science or studies, wildlife management, education, or a related field preferred
Prior experience in environmental education, zoos, aquariums, nature centers, or general education strongly preferred
Passion for environmental & wildlife conservation and sustainability
Comfortable working closely with reptiles, amphibians, birds of prey, mammals, insects, and other wildlife
Strong verbal communication and public speaking skills
Strong organizational and project management abilities
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Comfortable working outdoors in hot, humid, and rainy conditions
Physically able to climb stairs, stand for extended periods, and lift up to 40 lbs
Flexible schedule including weekends, holidays, and special events
Comfortable working with guests of all ages and backgrounds
Computer literacy, including Microsoft Office
Positive, professional, and team-oriented demeanor
Background Check
This position requires interaction with children and the public. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check.
Work Location
Fort Myers, FL 33905 Candidates must be able to reliably commute or relocate prior to start date.
Job Type: Part-time
Work Location: In person