For 60 years, the Accokeek Foundation has been a steward of the land. Through a partnership with the National Park Service, the Accokeek Foundation interprets the past, present, and future of agriculture and environmental stewardship on 200 acres in Piscataway Park. The park is open daily to visitors of all ages who enjoy a quiet landscape for recreation and reflection. Annually, thousands of school children visit for farm-based education, learning about environmental stewardship through a historical lens.
Position Overview – Seasonal Educator
The seasonal educator serves as an informed and friendly ambassador for the Accokeek Foundation, providing general visitor services including, visitor center retail, leading tours, school programs and assisting with events with interests in teaching, theater, history, agriculture, and the environment. Although well-rounded candidates are preferred, candidates with an ability to engage visitors will be preferred over those with strong content knowledge.
Primary Responsibilities
- Lead interpretive and educational experiences with K-12 schools groups and during special events.
- Lead group services such as garden and barnyard tours, trail hikes, Escape Farm, weekend educational demonstrations and other specialty programs as scheduled.
- Maintain highest quality of interpretation and visitor services.
- Lead interactive tours and activities engaging visitors.
- Assist in the upkeep of the National Colonial Farm and other public space through gardening, maintenance, and other homestead chores.
- Provide visitor services and frontline operations as required, including visitor center retail, visitor orientation, answering phones, and opening and closing the visitor center.
- Convey the mission of the Accokeek Foundation, including current initiatives and upcoming events.
- Participate in regular training and staff meetings.
Skills and Qualifications
- Working towards Bachelor’s or equivalent work experience preferred, not required; studies in history, museum studies, environmental education or other topics related to programs.
- Knowledge of or personal enthusiasm for humanities or environmental sciences related to the site.
- Demonstrated ability to engage effectively with culturally diverse audiences, and audiences of varying ages.
- Excellent communication skills and a willingness to learn.
- Strong customer service and/or interacting with park visitors.
- Prior experience as an actor, teacher, or educator is a plus, but not required.
- Ability to adapt and be flexible in a dynamic environment.
- Proficiency with outlook, Google applications, and other basic computing skills.
- Minimum physical requirement include by are not limited to: ability to stand for periods up to 60 minutes; walk over uneven terrain; lift and carry loads of up to 30 pounds and work in various weather conditions.
- Comfortable around large and small animals, specifically farm livestock.
Hours and Compensation
This is a seasonal position that requires availability on weekdays and weekends from 9:00 am – 5:00pm from March to December, with occasional evening availability. This is an hourly paid position with a pay range of $11.50-$12.50/hour. Health care benefits are available if eligibility requirements are met, minimum of 20 hours worked per week.
To apply: Send a resume and cover letter describing how your experience, skills, and interests make you uniquely qualified for this position by email with the subject line “Seasonal Educator” to info@accokeek.org, or by mail to: Accokeek Foundation c/o Seasonal Educator, 3400 Bryan Point Road, Accokeek, MD 20607. Applicant will be required to complete a background check prior to employment.