Benefits:

Health Insurance reimbursement

Simple IRA matching

Paid time off

Unit/Location: Education / Vero Beach, FL (On-site) Classification: Hourly / Non-exempt / Full-time Rate of Pay: $14.00–$16.00 per hour Reports to: Education Manager (Volunteer Coordinator in interim)

About the Role

The Education Associate plays a vital role in the Education Department and McKee Botanical Garden, contributing to the success of educational programming and events. This role supports the planning, implementation, and facilitation of educational initiatives, including programs for children, families, and adults, as well as school partnerships and public events.

The Education Associate collaborates with staff, volunteers, and external partners to deliver high-quality, mission-aligned educational experiences that inspire and engage diverse audiences.

Key Responsibilities

Assist in the planning, coordination, and execution of educational programs for children, families, and adults, both indoors and outdoors.

Facilitate field trips and student visits, liaising with schools and teachers to ensure seamless experiences.

Collaborate with volunteers and staff to schedule and facilitate programs. Act as back-up to the Education Manager during periods of unavailability.

Use tools such as Planbook.edu to access and deliver educational lessons and programs.

Respond to inquiries regarding educational programs via email and phone, maintaining excellent customer service.

Maintain and enhance educational displays and spaces throughout the Garden.

Organize and manage departmental supplies to support program delivery.

Conduct research to expand and enrich McKee’s educational workshop offerings.

Support special events and other tasks as assigned to contribute to the Garden’s overall success.

Qualifications

Experience working with children in an educational or instructional setting.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).

Strong communication skills with the ability to engage courteously with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.

Patience, adaptability, and professionalism, especially under pressure.

A collaborative team player with a positive, can-do attitude.

Physical ability to sit, stand, walk long distances, bend, and lift up to 25 pounds as required.

Availability to work weekends, evenings, and special events as needed.

High school diploma or equivalent required; a degree in early childhood or elementary education is highly preferred.

Core Schedule*

Tuesday–Saturday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM, with occasional evening and special event hours required. *December hours and schedule requirements vary to meet the needs of McKee’s annual Jungle Lights exhibition!

Work Environment

The Education Associate will work in both professional office settings and outdoor garden environments. This role involves regular use of standard office equipment (e.g., computers, phones, photocopiers) and requires physical activity such as walking, bending, standing, and lifting. Outdoor work is performed in various weather conditions, including summer heat and direct sunlight.

Equal Opportunity Employer

McKee Botanical Garden, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. Employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, or other protected categories.