Environmental Educator

Job Details: Job Location: Butterfly Pavilion - WESTMINSTER, CO, Salary Range: $17.00 - $17.00Hourly, Title: Environmental Educator – Programs 

Location: Westminster 

Position Reports To: Education Manager 

About Butterfly Pavilion: 

At Butterfly Pavilion, we transform the way people think about invertebrates. These small but mighty animals that surround us are so much more than people think. They are everywhere because everything depends on them. They are the hidden heroes of the animal kingdom. As the leader in invertebrate knowledge, inspiration and connection, Butterfly Pavilion works to foster an appreciation of these critical animals by educating the public about the need to protect and care for threatened habitats globally, while conducting research for solutions in invertebrate conservation. Whether it is providing unique, firsthand learning experiences in our exhibits and educational programs, conducting new research that sets the standard for zoos across the country or building innovative solutions for species and habitat conservation in countries around the world, Butterfly Pavilion is leading the way in ensuring invertebrates are protected for the future. 

Looking forward, we are committed to providing the most enriching experience for our audience, being recognized as a scientific authority, and being a leading educational resource on invertebrates.   

Our Core Values are a large part of who we are as an organization: 

We Live Our Mission 

Welcome All 

Passion for Learning 

These aren't just words, but words to live by here at Butterfly Pavilion. 

FLSA Status & Classification: Non-Exempt | Part Time  

Up to 20 hours per week 

Schedule:  Flexible, must be able to work some weekends and evenings 

Typical hours vary by season and program needs. 

Field Trips: Monday-Friday 8:00am-2:00pm 

Afterschool programs: Primarily weekday afternoons, 1:00–6:00 pm Monday–Friday. 

Seasonal camps: Full-day shifts during school break seasons (spring, summer, and winter). 

Additional hours may include early mornings (ex. 7:00 am) that include travel to outreach locations, evenings, and occasional Saturday and Sundays for outreach programs and booths. 

This is a part-time position (up to 28 hours per week, with the possibility of additional hours during the busy season). 

Hiring Hourly Rate: $17.00 hour 

Benefits:  

NICE Healthcare 

Retirement Savings 401(k) Plan with employer match 

Paid vacation and sick time 

Butterfly Pavilion Membership and 25% Gift Shop discount 

Position Summary:  

The Environmental Educator - Programs is responsible for providing world-class onsite and outreach education and experiences to learners of all ages across the Denver Metro area and onsite at Butterfly Pavilion, this includes field trip classes, outreach programs, virtual learning programs, afterschool programs, community booths, and seasonal camp programs. The Environmental Educator may also represent Butterfly Pavilion at community events.  

Essential Functions and Responsibilities: 

Teach and facilitate engaging, interactive science education programs at Butterfly Pavilion, in schools, youth organizations, senior centers, libraries, other community locations, and via virtual learning. 

Lead afterschool programs independently with up to 15 children. 

Execute seasonal camps, including completion of all required camp training and licensing; work as part of a team of up to three educators with groups of up to 25 children. 

Safely transport and use live animals to demonstrate science-based concepts. 

Use play-based, hands-on learning to make meaningful connections between content and daily life for diverse audiences. 

Exhibit strong behavior management skills in high-energy environments. 

Serve as an ambassador for Butterfly Pavilion at community booths outreach events. 

Communicate effectively with teachers, caregivers, and group leaders to ensure a positive experience. 

Work collaboratively with the Education team to provide high-quality programs. 

Participate in required trainings (e.g., USDA, animal handling, supplemental training). 

Crosstrain to work in additional areas as appropriate. 

Drive personal vehicle to outreach programs up to 250 miles round trip from Butterfly Pavilion. Mileage will be reimbursed at the approved rate. 

Qualifications: Qualifications & Experience:  

Education 

Pursuing or holding a bachelor's degree in education, environmental sciences, natural resources, or a related field or equivalent combination of education and experience. 

Experience 

Minimum of one (1) year of experience working with school-aged children in a camp, school, or childcare setting. 

Experience working effectively with individuals of varied ages, abilities, and backgrounds. 

Previous experience working with groups of school-aged children in informal settings  

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities 

Basic knowledge and interest in invertebrates, environmental science, conservation, and nature 

Valid driver’s license and proof of current automobile insurance meeting state minimum requirements.   

Able to provide proof of up-to-date vaccinations as required by school districts in the service area 

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:   

While performing the responsibilities of this position, these work environment characteristics are representative of the environment the position will encounter.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable people with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.  

At Butterfly Pavilion, the employee is occasionally exposed to moderate to loud environmental noise for extended periods of time. 

While performing the responsibilities of this position, the employee is required to talk and hear. The employee is often required to sit and stand, use their hands and fingers, to handle/feel/grasp. The employee is occasionally required to reach with arms and hands, climb or balance, and to stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. Vision abilities required by this job include close vision. Employee should be able to lift, carry and items up to 50 lbs. 

How to Apply:  

Applications will be accepted through September 8th, 2026 or until a candidate is found. 

Applicants must submit a Resume and Cover Letter.  

No phone calls or drop-ins please. 

Butterfly Pavilion is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages people of all backgrounds to apply for open positions and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty or veteran status. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor. 

E-Verify Participation: We utilize E-Verify to verify the work authorization of all new team members. Following your job offer, you'll need to complete Section 1 of the I-9 form by your start date. Per federal regulations, we’ll also need to review your original identity and work eligibility documents within your first three days on the job. For more details on your rights and responsibilities, check out dhs.gov/e-verify.