Summer Educator
The Organization
The Huyck Preserve, a 2,084-acre nature preserve and accredited land trust in Rensselaerville, New York, southwest of Albany, invites applications for the position of Seasonal Ranger. Founded in 1931, our mission is to preserve the natural beauty of the Rensselaerville Falls, the watershed of Lake Myosotis and surrounding lands; to conduct long-term research on natural systems as part of a global effort to understand and protect the Earth’s biodiversity; and to increase appreciation of this effort through innovative, field-based educational programs for students, teachers, and the community. The Preserve’s mission extends to four core areas: conservation, education, research, and recreation. For more information, please visit www.huyckpreserve.org.
Summer Educator
The Huyck Preserve and Biological Research Station seeks a skilled and enthusiastic environmental science educator to teach its summer K-12 education programs.
Applicants must have completed or be working towards a BA/BS degree in a science-related field. Supervised by and coordinating with the Executive Director, the Summer Educator will be the lead instructor for elementary and middle school programs and co-teach the Preserve’s high school course. Preference will be given to applicants with a strong interest and/or background in field ecology and environmental or outdoor education.
Summer Course Descriptions:
Nature Study: Elementary School, Grades K-5, July 6-17 (M-F)
Held in week-long, half-day sessions, Nature Study teaches K-5 students about nature through play-based lessons and exploration of the Huyck Preserve’s trails and streams. We use children’s curiosity as our guide. Science-themed games and crafts reinforce the basic concepts of ecology and environmental science.
Ecological Explorations: Middle School, Grades 6-8, July 20-24
This full-day, week-long course allows middle school students to get up-close to the Preserve’s ecosystems and organisms. Days are spent hiking the trails, exploring the ecosystems of the streams, lake, pond, and forests, problem solving, and participating in group challenges and activities.
Wildlife Ecology Research: High School, Grades 9-12, July 27- August 7 (M-F)
Wildlife Ecology Research is an intensive two-week day program where high school students learn basic ecological principles through hands-on research experience. Education staff and ecologists from colleges and universities around the region will instruct students on broad topics in ecology. Wildlife Ecology Research culminates in small group research projects mentored by Huyck Preserve staff and undergraduate Odum Interns.
Learn more about summer education programs here: https://www.huyckpreserve.org/summer-programs.html
Responsibilities:
Creating lesson plans for elementary and middle school programs; instructing elementary- and middle school-level classes in the classroom and outside; assisting in planning and teaching the high school class; prepping and cleaning-up each day
Job Details and Duration:
This is a full-time, seasonal position running approximately seven weeks and concluding on August 7, 2026.
Salary: $18-20 per hour based on experience
Housing: If requested, shared on-site housing is available and included in the position.
Required Qualifications:
Completion or work towards a BA/BS in a science-related field
Experience and interest in working with children
Experience or interest in environmental education and lesson planning
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and work ethic
Clear verbal and written communication skills
Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions and to navigate rugged terrain
Additional Requirements:
The finalist must pass a criminal background check and DOT driving record check before being hired.
One evening of work will be required.
Desirable Additional Qualifications:
Experience/interest in field biology and research
Experience team building
Familiarity with flora and fauna of the northeastern United States