Education Specialist
Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden
Not for Profit-Charity | Full Time | Onsite | Des Moines
Posted: 1/29/26
Job Description
The Education Specialist delivers high-quality, mission-driven educational programming that engages learners of all ages in the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden’s mission. This position focuses on direct instruction and program delivery across a wide range of educational initiatives, including camps, school field trips, guided tours, workshops, lectures, community outreach, booths, and garden interpretation. Working collaboratively with other team members, volunteers, and community partners, this role inspires curiosity and learning through engaging, inclusive, and discovery-based experiences. The ideal candidate brings enthusiasm for horticulture and the natural world, along with experience teaching diverse audiences in both traditional and non-traditional educational settings.
Address
909 Robert D Ray Drive
Essential Job Functions
To perform this role successfully, the individual must be able to carry out each essential duty satisfactorily and perform other duties as assigned.
Deliver formal and informal educational programs both onsite and at offsite community locations for audiences of all ages and abilities.
Serve as a primary instructor for camps, including school break camps, in-service day programs, and summer camps; support daily activities and coordinate visiting instructors as needed.
Collaborate with team members to develop, update, and refine lesson plans, program materials, tour scripts, talking points, and instructional resources to ensure high-quality program delivery.
Create engaging, inclusive learning environments by establishing positive relationships with program participants and guests.
Demonstrate enthusiasm, adaptability, and professionalism while teaching and interacting with learners, staff, volunteers, and the public.
Maintain program spaces and storage areas, including setup, inventory, and organization of educational supplies and materials.
Recruit, train, and support volunteers who assist with educational programming.
Assist with cross-departmental initiatives, special events, exhibits, and other program areas as needed.
Education
Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree preferred in science education, botany, biology, horticulture, environmental education, or a related field; or equivalent training and/or experience.
Experience teaching, facilitating programs, leading tours, or public speaking required.
Experience with curriculum or program development for diverse audiences highly desirable.
Experience working with or training volunteers or docents preferred.
Bilingual or multilingual skills highly desirable.
About the Company
The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a 501(c)(3) privately governed, nonprofit public garden located on 17 acres in the heart of downtown Des Moines. Our mission is exploring, explaining, and celebrating the world of plants. Through progressive garden design, innovative programming, and signature experiences, we create meaningful connections between people and plants. Education, community engagement, and partnerships are central to our work as we cultivate a welcoming space for learning, inspiration, and growth.
Travel Required
Resume Required
No
Contact Person
Kate Selden-Egge