Education Instructor - Cleveland Botanical Gardens

Holden Forests & Gardens; Cleveland (OH); On-site; USD 18,000 - 23,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Discounts in stores & cafes

Free parking at campuses

Free admission to many Northeast Ohio 

Free Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

Holden Forests & Gardens is seeking an Education Instructor for the Cleveland Botanical Garden in Cleveland, OH. This role delivers plant- and science-based programs for PreK–8 and college students during school field trips, with an emphasis on outdoor learning and environmental literacy.

The position offers part-time hours (10–19 hours/week during the school year), a mandatory paid training, and shifts primarily Tue-Fri 9:30 AM–3:00 PM, with some weekend coverage.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Education or related field preferred.
• Experience teaching or working with children a plus.
• Ability to adapt teaching to diverse learning styles.
• Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather.

Responsibilities

• Deliver interactive, curriculum-aligned programs for school groups.
• Engage students in hands-on activities to promote environmental literacy.
• Maintain a safe, welcoming learning environment indoors and outdoors.
• Attend training sessions to learn content and safety protocols.
• Collaborate with Education team to ensure program quality.
• Assist with other Education Department programming as needed.

Skills

Communication skills

Adaptability

Outdoor teaching

Student engagement

Team collaboration

Safety awareness

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Education, Environmental Science, Biology, or related field

Job description

Position: Education Instructor - Cleveland Botanical Gardens

Location: Cleveland, OH

Job Id: 260901

# of Openings: 1

Holden Forests & Gardens connects people with the wonder, beauty and value of trees and plants, to inspire action for healthy communities. When you join HF&G, you join a team of professionals who are passionate about improving Northeast Ohio’s communities through our mission-driven programs.

Join the Education team in a dynamic role where you’ll inspire curiosity and a love of nature in students! We’re seeking enthusiastic educators to deliver engaging plant and science-based programs for PreK–8 and college students during school field trips. If you enjoy teaching in outdoor settings and fostering meaningful learning experiences, this is the perfect opportunity for you!

Status: Staff Position (transitioned from contractor role)
Hours: 10–19 hours/week during school year
Mandatory Paid Training: Dates provided upon hire
Work Schedule: Primarily Tue-Fri, 9:30 AM–3:00 PM; some weekend shifts 11am-5pm
Location: Cleveland Botanical Garden
Reports To: Academic Programs Coordinator

Key Responsibilities:

The key responsibilities of the Education Instructor – Cleveland Botanical Garden include, but are not limited to:

• SupportsHoldenForests& Gardens’mission,vision, values,andcorecommitment
• Deliver interactive, curriculum-aligned programs for school groups
• Engage students in hands‑on activities that promote environmental literacy
• Maintain a safe, welcoming learning environment in both indoor and outdoor spaces
• Attend training sessions to learn program content and safety protocols
• Collaborate with Education team to ensure program quality and consistency
• Assist with other Education Department programming as needed.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Environmental Science, Biology, or related field preferred
• Experience teaching or working with children in formal or informal settings a plus
• Experience in customer service or front-facing roles a plus
• Ability to adapt teaching methods to diverse learning styles and age groups
• Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Ability to lift, stand, kneel, and walk on uneven surfaces
• Strong communicationand presentation skills.
• Ability to manage groups effectively andmaintainsafety standards.
• Organizational skills for scheduling and programs
• Collaborative mindset and willingness to work as part of a team.
• Enthusiasm for environmental education and sustainability.
• Maintain a valid driver's license and acceptable vehicle record
• Minimum 18 years of age
• Must have your own reliable transportation
• Must pass a criminal background check

Holden Forests & Gardens (HF&G) is a great place to work!

• With a starting rate of $15/hr, work in a beautiful environment within Greater Cleveland | Discounts in our stores & cafes | Free parking at both campuses anytime we are open | Free admission to manyNortheast Ohio Museums | FreeEmployee Assistance Program | And Much More!

Holden Forests & Gardens is an equal opportunity employer and values an authentic sense of belonging at all levels of the organization, including staff, volunteers, Board of Directors, and visitors.