Current Openings

Title: Environmental Education Assistant

(Please submit resume and letter of interest to mhaspres@spearheadmhas.org )

Company Overview

The Mississippi Headwaters Audubon Society (MHAS) is one of Bemidji’s most enduring environmental conservation organizations. We were founded through the efforts of concerned local citizens who saw the need for a strong environmental voice in the early 1970's. The majority of our activities are environmental education and outreach.

● Manage a nature preserve called the Neilson Spearhead Nature Preserve, 11 miles south of Bemidji, MN.

● Host outdoor nature programs and camps where kids, families, and adults get a hands-on nature experience..

● Lead community projects and events that connect people with nature.

● Advocate for local conservation of important habitats and ecosystems.

● Provide opportunities for nature-inspired study and research.

The Neilson Spearhead Nature Preserve

The Neilson Spearhead Nature Preserve is a 466 acre nature preserve encircling a pristine, 189 acre headwater lake with pine-hardwood forests, wetlands, and bogs. Development is limited to a few rustic buildings, trails, and boardwalks designed and maintained to keep the visitor’s focus on their natural surroundings and not the built environment. Visitors to the Neilson Spearhead Nature Preserve can have a quiet, remote experience not commonly available at most other public parks or resorts.

Vision: The Neilson Spearhead Nature Preserve is a ‘Wilderness Classroom in the Northwoods’ - a place for experiential nature education, scientific research, quiet reflection, and contemplation; where one develops a sense of wonder and joy for nature and the importance of wild places.

Neilson Spearhead Nature Preserve Goals

● Maintain the integrity of the natural communities present on the Neilson Spearhead Nature Preserve property.

● Provide and be a resource for education in environmental science, nature-based, experiential learning and personal growth.

● Conduct and be a resource for research in areas of environmental science.

● Provide opportunities to create personal connections and a sense of place with nature.

● Be financially sustainable and a valued contributor to the quality of our surrounding community.

Job Summary

The Environmental Education Assistant supports the planning and delivery of nature-based educational programming at the Neilson Spearhead Nature Preserve and in the surrounding community. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working with youth and intergenerational groups, is curious about the natural world, and wants to help others learn about northern Minnesota ecosystems through hands-on, experiential learning.

Primary Responsibilities

Program Delivery

  • Assist in leading nature-based programs for children, families, and school or community groups.

  • Prepare materials, supplies, and teaching tools for scheduled programs.

  • Support implementation of the Young Naturalist Program and seasonal field trips.

  • Deliver portions of lessons, activities, or guided walks as assigned.

  • Ensure a safe, inclusive, and welcoming learning environment for all participants.

Curriculum & Learning Support

  • Help adapt existing environmental education materials for different age groups and learning needs.

  • Maintain and organize program materials and kits.

  • Incorporate art, storytelling, and cultural perspectives when possible.

  • Assist with data collection or observations tied to program evaluation (e.g., participant feedback).

  • Share occasional program photos or updates on MHAS social media to highlight community impact and educational activities.

Community Engagement (Education Focused)

  • Represent MHAS at events (e.g., school open houses, nature festivals. County fairs, other tabling opportunities).

  • Engage with parents, teachers, and community members to share information about programs.

  • Assist with recruitment and orientation of volunteers for programs and events.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Interest or experience in environmental education, outdoor learning, or youth development.

  • Comfortable leading small groups in outdoor, all-weather settings.

  • Creative, curious, and able to adjust on the fly when working with diverse learners.

  • Familiarity with Minnesota’s native species, ecosystems, and conservation issues.

  • Experience working with children or intergenerational groups in a formal or informal learning setting.

Additional Details

  • Flexible scheduling based on program needs, including weekends or evenings.

  • Opportunities for growth into program planning, curriculum development, and outreach/marketing over time.

  • MHAS encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences to apply.

  • Looking to fill position ASAP. Will remain open until filled.

If you have a passion for connecting people with nature and are eager to make a difference in your community, we invite you to apply for the Environmental Education Assistant position with the Mississippi Headwaters Audubon Society today!

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: From $15.00 per hour

Expected hours: 8 – 12 per week

Benefits:

  • Flexible schedule

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Bemidji, MN 56601

Please submit resume and letter of interest to mhaspres@spearheadmhas.org