Gardens Education Specialist

Job Description Summary

The Gardens Education Specialist supports the planning, coordination, and delivery of high-quality educational programming at Reynolda Gardens. This part-time position focuses primarily on developing and implementing standards-aligned, interdisciplinary educational experiences for K–6 school field trips, with additional support for family programs, seasonal offerings, and summer camps. Programming emphasizes student-centered, inquiry-based learning that builds scientific literacy through evidence-based instructional practices aligned with North Carolina state curriculum standards, integrating science, environmental studies, and art within a garden-based learning environment.

This position is grant-funded and contingent upon continued funding.

Job Description

• This position is not eligible for sponsorship of non-immigrant or immigrant visa status through Wake Forest University. All eligible applicants are encouraged to apply.
• Please note, this is a fixed term position. The weekly hours may vary based on time of year and departmental needs.

Essential Functions

• Assist in the development and implementation of standards-aligned educational programs for school groups, families, and summer camps.
• Apply evidence-based, student-centered instructional strategies that support scientific literacy and inquiry-based learning.
• Support program scheduling, logistical coordination, and communication with educators, group leaders, and internal stakeholders.
• Oversee day-of program preparation, setup, and breakdown to ensure effective and efficient program delivery.
• Coordinate, train, and support volunteers, providing on-site guidance as needed
• Assist with family education programs, seasonal programming, and summer camp offerings.
• Collaborate with Reynolda Gardens staff to ensure educational programs align with institutional goals, mission, and educational priorities.

Required Education, Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Bachelor’s degree in education, environmental science, biology, or a related field, or current North Carolina teaching licensure; a Master's Degree and teaching experience is preferred
• Strong knowledge of North Carolina state curriculum standards and inquiry-based instructional methodologies
• Demonstrated organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with schools, teachers, volunteers, and staff.
• Comfortable working independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, outdoor environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends, special events, and holidays (to support programs such as Pumpkin Patch and other seasonal events).
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Effectively manage multiple tasks simultaneously and adapt to changing program needs.

Environmental Conditions:

• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Effectively manage multiple tasks simultaneously and adapt to changing program needs.
• Subject to both environmental conditions; activities occur inside and outside.

Additional Job Description

Time Type RequirementPart time

Note to Applicant:

This position profile identifies the key responsibilities and expectations for performance. It cannot encompass all specific job tasks that an employee may be required to perform. Employees are required to follow any other job-related instructions and perform job-related duties as may be reasonably assigned by his/her supervisor.

In order to provide a safe and productive learning and living community, Wake Forest University conducts background investigations and drug screens for all final staff candidates being considered for employment.