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Heard Museum Employment

Learn More about Heard Museum Employment

Learn More about Heard Museum Employment

Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary is located in McKinney, Texas. Founded in 1967, this 501(c)3 nonprofit organization is comprised of a 289-acre nature preserve and natural science museum. Our mission is to bring nature and people together to discover, enjoy, experience, restore and preserve our priceless environment. Learn more about Heard Museum employment opportunities below!

Outdoor Adventures Manager - Part-time

Overview

The mission of the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary (Heard) is to bring people and nature together to discover, enjoy, experience, restore, and preserve our priceless environment.

The Heard is looking for an individual who has a passion for sharing nature with others and a drive to help create the next generation of scientists, outdoor-enthusiasts, and conservation minded individuals. This part-time position will be primarily responsible for the development and implementation of the ropes course, canoe program, and overnight programs in the role of the Outdoor Adventures Manager.  

This position is highly variable and hours and work days vary seasonally. Weekend and occasional evening availability required.

 

General Duties

Outdoor Adventures Manager Duties

  • Function as the on-site ropes course/canoe/overnight program manager during the execution of ropes, canoe, and overnight programs.
  • Ensure accurate and current inventory records of materials, supplies, and equipment and ensure all programs have adequate supplies necessary for success. 
  • Ensure program volunteers and staff receive timely, relevant, and appropriate training.
  • Ensure accurate and current usage and safety logs for all ropes course elements and program equipment.
  • Systematically inspect all Challenge Course elements, canoes, and related equipment to ensure effective and efficient operation and safety.
  • Prepare program areas, materials, and supplies before and after programs. 
  • Perform clerical duties associated with the administration of all programs including processing paperwork and operating a computer.
  • Maintain efficient and timely business communications via phone and email.
  • Meet or exceed the standards for the safety, security and emotional welfare of participants for all programs.
  • Ensure safety standards are understood, enforced and followed by all appropriate program staff and volunteers

 

The above duties reflect the general responsibilities necessary to describe the principal work functions of the job, and shall not be considered as a detailed description of all work requirements that may be in the position. 

 

Professional Standards – Qualified Applicant will:

 

  • Understand and follow all Heard policies & procedures
  • Present self in a highly professional manner to others
  • Understand that honesty, ethics, and good judgement are essential
  • Ensure that excellent customer service is maintained with each customer
  • Maintain a positive attitude toward the position, the company and co-workers 
  • Instruct, coach and encourage others to support by action and example the Heard’s mission

 

Physical Qualifications – Qualified Applicant must be able to:

 

  • Walk/hike on uneven terrain – often for more than an hour and covering a mile or more.
  • Climb (ropes, ladders, poles) to set-up programs and access program elements
  • Bending, Kneeling, Reaching to set-up programs, facilitate course elements, and store/retrieve canoes and other supplies
  • Carrying and lifting objects, supplies and equipment up to 50lbs, including canoes
  • Paddle in canoes and kayaks on open water for long periods of time (2-3 hrs) or for duration of shift 
  • Work outside in various weather conditions 

 

Other Qualifications

Education:

Degree in Environment Science, Outdoor Education or other related field would be a great asset.

Experience

  • 2-3 years of experience in a closely related educational environment with minimum of 1 year supervisory experience and 1 year teaching experience required OR an equivalent combination of education and experience. 
  • Working knowledge of biological and ecological principles.
  • Experience developing and leading environmental education programs for students and/or adults.  
  • Must demonstrate an understanding, patient, and receptive attitude toward students of varied age groups, including young children and adults in small as well as large group activities.
  • Previous experience in a similar challenge course &/or outdoor education environment strongly desired. Current certifications in ropes, paddling, first-aid, and/or life-guarding a plus.
  • Must be able to use Windows and associated software applications (i.e. word processing and spreadsheets).

Application

Ropes Course Facilitators/ Belayers - Part-time

Heard Museum Employment

The Ropes Course at Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary has positions available for PT Ropes Course Facilitators/ Belayers.  Previous belaying experience is preferred (training available) and ACCT certification is preferred but not mandatory.

 

Responsibilities

  • Belaying participants
  • Setting up and breaking down of course
  • Facilitating high initiative activities as needed
  • Facilitating low initiative activities as needed
  • Knot Tying
  • Help to lead group events, parties and functions.  

REQUIRED: Belaying Experience

The Heard Natural Science Museum offers a High and Low Elements Ropes Course located within a beautiful deciduous forest tree canopy. Our programs are uniquely created to give each participant and team an invaluable set of tools for success. We have fourteen challenging elements!

Application

Ropes Course Manager - Part-time

The mission of the Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary (Heard) is to bring people and nature together

to discover, enjoy, experience, restore, and preserve our priceless environment. The Heard is looking for an individual who has a passion for sharing nature with others and a drive to help create the next generation of scientists, outdoor-enthusiasts, and conservation minded individuals. This part-time position will be primarily responsible for the development and implementation of the ropes course and canoe program in the role of the Ropes Course Manager. This position is highly variable and hours and work days vary seasonally. Weekend and occasional evening availability required.

 

 

GENERAL DUTIES

Ropes Course Manager Duties

  • Function as the on-site ropes course/canoe program manager during the execution of ropes and canoe programs.
  • Ensure accurate and current inventory records of materials, supplies, and equipment and ensure the Ropes Course and Canoe Programs have adequate supplies necessary for programming.
  • Ensure ropes course and canoe program volunteers and staff receive timely, relevant, and appropriate training.
  • Ensure accurate and current usage and safety logs for all ropes course elements and equipment.
  • Systematically inspect all Challenge Course elements, canoes, and related equipment to ensure effective and efficient operation and safety.

Overarching Duties 

  • Perform clerical duties associated with the administration of all programs including processing paperwork and operating a computer.
  • Meet or exceed the standards for the safety, security and emotional welfare of participants for all programs.
  • Ensure safety standards are understood, enforced and followed by all appropriate program staff and volunteers.

 

The above duties reflect the general responsibilities necessary to describe the principal work functions of the job, and shall not be considered as a detailed description of all work requirements that may be in the position.

 

Professional Standards – Qualified Applicant will:

  • Understand and follow all Heard policies and procedures
  • Present self in highly professional manner to others 
  • Understand that honesty, ethics, and good judgement are essential 
  • Ensure that excellent customer service is maintained with each guest
  • Maintain a positive attitude towards the position, the company, and coworkers 
  • Instruct and encourage others to support by action and example the Heard’s mission

 

Physical Qualifications – Qualified Applicant must be able to:

  • Walk/hike on uneven terrain, often for more than an hour and covering one mile or more
  • Climb (ropes, ladders, poles) to set up programs and access program elements
  • Bending, kneeling, reaching to set up programs, facilitate course elements, and store/retrieve canoes and other supplies
  • Carrying and lifting objects, supplies up to 50lbs., including canoes
  • Paddle in canoes and kayaks for long periods of time – 2-3hrs or for duration of shift
  • Work outside in various weather conditions

 

OTHER QUALIFICATIONS

Education

Degree in Environmental Science, Outdoor Education, or other related field would be a great asset.

Experience

  • 2-3 years of experience in a closely related educational environment with minimum of 1 year supervisory experience
    and 1 year teaching experience required OR an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Experience developing and leading programs for students and/or adults.
  • Must demonstrate an understanding, patient, and receptive attitude toward students of varied age groups, including
    young children and adults in small as well as large group activities.
  • Previous experience in a similar challenge course and/or outdoor education environment strongly desired. Current
    certifications in ropes, paddling, first-aid, and/or life-guarding a plus.
  • Must be able to use Windows and associated software applications (i.e. word processing and spreadsheets).

Application

Nature Store Associate - Part-time

Heard Museum Employment

Heard Museum Employment

  • Basic computer knowledge
  • Friendly customer service
  • Experience with and ability to work with children
  • Familiarity with cash register operation and basic math
  • Ability to follow rules
  • Available during the week and weekends
  • At least one year experience working in a store environment

Application

Animal Care Attendant Part-time

Heard Museum Employment

Heard Museum Employment

Love animals? Apply for a position as an Animal Care Attendant at the Heard Museum! Animal Care Attendants provide quality care for all animals. This is not an education or outreach position and will not include live animal presentations.

 

Responsibilities include

  • Sanitizing enclosures and washing and cleaning dishes
  • Preparing diets and feeding animals
  • Lifting and carrying of materials that may weigh up to 50 pounds
  • Walking and standing for long periods is required as is exposure to unpleasant odors, animal waste, and the extreme temperatures of North Texas.
  • Recognizing and recording any unusual condition or abnormal behavior of any exhibit animal.
  • Reporting signs of illness, disease, injury or unusual activity to Animal Curator.  

 

Job Summary

The primary consideration of this position is quality care for all animals at the Heard Natural Science Museum. Applicants must be dedicated to the welfare of all animals, must possess good communication skills, and must have the ability to work as a team with other Animal Care staff. Previous animal husbandry experience is preferred but training will be provided. COVID-19 policies remain in place around animals and indoors, so masks must be worn at all times.

 

Hours 

Mornings 8:30-12:30, weekends and holidays required.

 

Application

CLOSED

a tortoise walking through the grass at Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary

Museum Administration Internship (UNPAID) - CLOSED

Have you ever wondered if working in a nonprofit is right for you? A museum administration internship at Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary will give you the opportunity to see some of the workings of an established nonprofit and help many of the museum’s departments including membership, marketing, reservations, fundraising, events, and more depending on individual interest. Interns will gain an appreciation for the day to day operation of a nonprofit. The Heard is a private 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, comprised of a natural science museum and wildlife sanctuary.  We are currently looking for someone to work part time (10 hours per week). This is an unpaid volunteer position with a nonprofit organization, and may count toward course credit as applicable to your school’s requirements.

 

Requirements

Candidate must have skill in using personal computers and proficiency in Microsoft Office is required. Candidate should preferably have one year of work experience with general office equipment. Knowledge of museum and/or nonprofit practices is preferable.  You MUST be self-motivated and able to handle new challenges without constant supervision. Multitasking and the ability to apply complex information are also important. You will serve as a member of a team and perform needed functions. Thus, acceptance of this internship position should be considered a sincere commitment.

Application

Animal Curation Internship (UNPAID)

The Intern Animal Curation Assistant will assist the Natural Sciences Curator in all animal care responsibilities. This is an unpaid volunteer position. No stipend or housing provided. The primary purpose of the Animal Curation Assistant is to provide for the basic care and needs of all captive animals that reside at the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary.

 

Responsibilities include

  • Observation of animal appearance and activity for general physical condition, obvious signs of illness, disease and discontent.
  • To assist, as needed, in the feeding and thorough cleaning and sanitation of all animal living quarters and other areas of the animal collection as often as necessary (i.e., ensure no animal enclosures are soiled and odors are not apparent).
  • To assist in the healthcare and well-being of all the animals in the Live Room (education and classroom animals), and the animal exhibit wall on the lower level of the museum.
  • Assist in the care of any animals in the main museum exhibit space.
  • Provide health inspections, food prep and food delivery to the Animals of the World exhibit.
  • Recognize and record any unusual condition or abnormal behavior of any exhibit animal.
  • Report signs of illness, disease, injury or unusual activity to Animal Curator.  

 

Job Summary

The primary consideration of this position is quality care for all animals at the Heard Natural Science Museum. This position requires lifting and carrying of materials weighing up to 50 lbs. Walking and standing for long periods is required as is exposure to unpleasant odors, potential animal bites, scratches, contagious diseases, animal waste, hot and cold temperatures (outdoors).  

 

Controls over Work

  • Work under the supervision of the Animal Curator who indicates general assignments and priorities.
  • Recurring assignments are performed independently. Deviations or unfamiliar situations will be assigned by the Animal Curator.
  • Completed work is reviewed for accuracy and compliance with Animal Curation procedures.
  • In accordance with Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary operating instructions, attend to the care required in keeping with the individual needs and circumstances of animals.
  • Follow special instructions as issued. Hours: Generally flexible with Sunday morning hours required.

Application

Education Reservation Coordinator regular part-time

We are looking for a detail-oriented, customer-service driven individual to be the main contact and processor for program reservations (field trips, birthday parties, homeschool, preschool, summer camp, scouts, etc.). Previous reservation or customer service experience and computer proficiency (ex. MS Office, Outlook, and database use) required. Previous experience with Blackbaud’s Altru system and/or HTML a plus. Max hours per week: 20. If desired and qualified, position may be combined with a contract Museum Educator position for some additional hours. Background check required.

How to Apply

Museum Educators contract (as needed part-time) positions

Do you have a love for children and an enthusiasm for nature? We are looking for a few dynamic individuals to round out our education staff. Previous teaching experience and a background in natural sciences preferred. Experience presenting with live animals desired.

 

Weekday and weekend positions available. Weekend opportunities include leading scout workshops and hosting birthday parties. Weekday opportunities include leading or assisting with weekly preschool and homeschool classes and school field trips during the academic year and summer camp in the summer. Scheduling is flexible and varies per week depending on programming needs. Background check required.

How to Apply

Summer Nature Camp Lead Teachers and Assistants - Summer 2024

Love kids? Love nature and the outdoors? We are looking for a few summer camp teachers and assistants to provide a fun and educational experience for our day campers. If you are at least 16 years old and have a positive, enthusiastic attitude, and enjoy spending time outside, then this might be the summer job for you! 

 

Lead teachers must be 18 years old and have previous experience teaching, preferably in a science or environmental education field. Must be comfortable presenting/handling live animals in a group setting (previous experience helpful, but not required). Assistants must be at least 16 years old and previous experience with children in a group setting is preferred.

 

See camp page for camp weeks (coming soon). Hours: 9:00am – 3:00 pm, Monday through Friday.

How to Apply

Please note all applications will be processed in late spring. Applicants will be contacted at that time.

Marketing & Communication Internship (UNPAID) - Closed

Have you ever wondered if working in a nonprofit is right for you? A marketing internship at Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary will give you the opportunity to see some of the workings of an established nonprofit and help with the organization’s general promotional efforts. Interns will gain an appreciation for the overall impact media relations have on the Museum’s reputation and outreach. The Heard is a 501 c-3, comprised of a natural science museum and wildlife sanctuary.  We are currently looking for someone to work part time (maximum 10 hours a week). This is an unpaid volunteer position with a nonprofit organization, and may count toward course credit as applicable to your school’s requirements.

 

Requirements

Candidate must have a background (school or work) in marketing, journalism, or similar field. Proficiency in Microsoft Office required.  Candidate should preferably be familiar with marketing strategies. Graphic design skills are preferable (Photoshop, Illustrator, Publisher, or similar).  You MUST be self-motivated and able to handle new challenges without constant supervision. Multitasking and the ability to apply complex information are also important. You will serve as a member of a team and perform needed functions. Thus, acceptance of this internship position should be considered a sincere commitment.

Application

Currently Closed