Environmental Education Fellow

The Outdoor University at Saint John’s University invites applications for an Environmental Education Fellow.

This is a full-time, benefit-eligible fellowship beginning August 18, 2025 (negotiable) and continuing through June 30, 2026 (negotiable). Affordable on-site housing is available. As part of the fellowship, you’ll also have the opportunity to enroll in an Environmental Education Certificate program through Hamline University, with coursework that can be applied toward a master’s degree. Work in a beautiful natural setting while developing your skills and building a professional network in environmental education.

The Fellow is responsible for assisting the Outdoor University team in the direction and coordination of environmental education programming for PreK–12 students, College of Saint Benedict (CSB) and Saint John’s University (SJU) students, and the public. This position assists in teaching the environmental education curriculum and in developing new programming and curriculum. Other aspects of the position include training and teaching Outdoor U student staff and volunteers, leading public programs, outreach to the CSB/SJU community, supporting adventure programming, participating in land stewardship, and maintaining equipment.

The position features advanced development of environmental interpretation skills, teaching techniques, and natural history knowledge through hands-on training and participation in seminars, workshops, and continuing education. The Fellow will work as part of a team committed to providing environmental education and outdoor recreation opportunities to diverse audiences. Opportunities for collaboration with CSB/SJU faculty and other professionals working in a variety of fields will also be provided.

Institutional Inclusion Visioning Statement

The College of Saint Benedict (CSB) and Saint John’s University (SJU) believe that an excellent liberal arts education requires an understanding and appreciation of cultural difference and that everyone deserves to feel safe and morally valued. To that end, we will challenge our own practices and systems. Our commitment to an inclusive environment will be incorporated into all decision-making processes. We dedicate ourselves to cultivating an equitable, inclusive community founded on respect for all persons.

CSB and SJU offer competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits program (click the benefits tab above the position summary section to view more information). For further information regarding our institutions, visit CSBSJU.

The posted wage represents CSB and SJU's good faith estimate of likely compensation at the time of posting. Actual pay will be dependent upon several factors, including the candidate's experience, qualifications, and skills, and may fall outside of the range indicated.

• Participate in the fellowship aspect of the position, including goal setting, evaluations, training, and networking opportunities.
• Instruct environmental education curriculum to visiting students, including school year programming and summer day camps.
• Participate in the instruction of CSB/SJU students through established connections with academic departments.
• Offer informational, seasonal programs on topics related to local natural history for Outdoor U members and interested community members.
• Collaborate with the Assistant Director of PreK-12 Environmental Education to expand existing curriculum and develop new programming.
• Maintain equipment and supplies for educational, scientific, and environmental activities.
• Participate in land stewardship activities.
• Provide direction and training to student employees and volunteers assisting with the education programs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.  

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in environmental education, natural sciences, or a related field
• Demonstrated ability to teach environmental education to diverse audiences
• Experience teaching elementary aged students (preK-5th grade)
• Ability to work effectively with culturally and economically diverse populations
• Commitment to increase skills and knowledge of environmental education through workshops, seminars, classes, and on-the-job training as provided during the Fellowship
• Working knowledge of, or willingness to learn, regional flora, fauna, and ecosystems
• Strong oral and written communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build collaborative relationships and work effectively as part of the Outdoor U team in providing a high level of customer service
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively
• Proficiency with computers and ability to use multiple software programs and applications
• Flexibility to work a varied schedule, including occasional evenings and weekends

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: 

• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in variable weather conditions.
• Ability to walk for extended distances on variable terrain.
• Ability to lift/move equipment up to 40 lbs.
• Must hold valid driver's license and complete institutional defensive driving program.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

• N/A

Applications are accepted online by clicking on "Apply." Candidates are asked to complete the application form and submit a cover letter and resume.

If you require an accommodation to participate in the SJU hiring process, please contact Human Resources at (320) 363-5500 or [email protected].

It is the policy of SJU to conduct a pre-employment background check. An offer of employment is contingent upon a successful background check. Saint John's University also utilizes E-Verify as part of its onboarding process to confirm work authorization.

Saint John's University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. The College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University are Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employers.