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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!

Education Manager

Position Overview

The Education Manager is a critical management position that is responsible for overseeing educational programs offered by the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary. The Education Manager will encourage students’ awareness and appreciation of the natural world science concepts. This is a full-time position that reports to the Director of Programs.

 

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Working with the Director of Programs, assure that the development, coordination, implementation, and evaluation of all educational programs are aligned with the Heard’s mission and revenue strategy
  • Recruit, hire, train, and schedule qualified educators and volunteers to ensure effective and efficient delivery of education programs
  • Conduct observations and provide ongoing support, feedback, and training to educators
  • Develop, prepare, organize, and evaluate curricula for all Heard educational programs ensuring appropriate standards and mission are met on an ongoing basis
  • Proactively evaluate and make recommendations to the Director of Programs to add or remove program offerings in order to maximize program performance and revenue
  • Maintenance and organization of program materials
  • Under the guidance of the Living Collections Curator, assure that the Heard’s ambassador animals have the highest quality of life possible while performing their role as working educational animals
  • Act as Summer Camp Director including acquiring and maintaining all needed licensing and certifications
  • Hire Summer Nature Camp Teachers and provide training before each camp season.
  • Respond to requests and inquiries from the public quickly and efficiently with the highest degree of customer service
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships and proactively encourage and facilitate collaboration between departments
  • Network and foster relationships with agencies, organizations, schools, businesses, and community groups
  • Prepare monthly, annual, and other periodic reports
  • Employ diplomacy, creativity, sound judgment, leadership, and initiative in performing all functions related to the job

 

Duties and Responsibilities

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. The ideal candidate is a solution-oriented thinker, who is flexible and creative, with a “can-do” attitude and who has experience working with outdoor science education programs and managing people.

 

Qualifications include:

  • A bachelor’s degree, or higher, from an accredited college or university with major course work in a Natural Science, Natural Resources Management, Environmental Studies, Biology, Education, or a closely-related field
  • Two (2) years of responsible experience in any of the following or a closely related field: education, interpretation, volunteer program management including working with docents/volunteers or the public in an educational/interpretive capacity
  • Experience working in a leadership position at an educational institution preferred
  • Flexible to changing circumstances; able to maintain a positive and professional attitude under stress; detail-oriented and organized; excellent time management and record keeping skills
  • Able to work both independently and as a member of a team; willingness to be coached and openness to feedback; high level of integrity; excellent work ethic
  • Knowledge of Texas plant and animal life highly desirable
  • Ability to handle a variety of animals including invertebrates and snakes highly desirable
  • Ability to work outside in a variety of weather conditions and temperatures required
  • Effective communication and strong interpersonal skills; ability to speak effectively before diverse groups of patrons, employees, and partners required
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals required
  • Ability to write routine reports and correspondence required
  • Comfort with using and learning computer software including CRMs, Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Acrobat required
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends required
  • Fingerprinting for a background check will be required
  • Current CPR and First Aid Certificates is highly preferred
  • Valid and current driver’s license necessary

Application

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 Educator

Classification: Contract; part-time (10-30 hrs/week) Weekends Preferred

As a Museum Educator, you will play a pivotal role in delivering engaging and educational experiences to visitors of all ages. You will lead a variety of programs, including homeschool sessions, preschool activities, scout workshops, field trips, public events, outreach initiatives, and birthday parties. Your primary focus will be on teaching and guiding children aged 3 years and older through environmental education programs.


Key Responsibilities:

  • Educational Programming: Teach and facilitate interactive programs for children and groups, emphasizing environmental education and natural history.
  • Public Speaking: Deliver presentations and lead discussions to diverse audiences, including school groups, families, and the general public.
  • Animal Handling: Handle live animals as part of educational programs, ensuring their safety and well-being.
  • Curriculum Development: Assist in revising and developing educational materials and activities to enhance program quality and effectiveness.
  • Guest Engagement: Interact with museum visitors to enhance their experience, answer questions, and promote ongoing engagement with the museum’s mission.
  • Knowledge Maintenance: Stay informed about the natural history of the museum and sanctuary to provide accurate and engaging information to visitors.

Qualifications:

  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Education, Environmental Science, Biology, or a related field preferred.
  • Experience: Previous experience in educational roles, particularly with children, is highly desirable.
  • Skills: Strong public speaking and communication skills; ability to handle live animals safely; proficiency in developing and delivering educational content.
  • Attributes: Enthusiastic, creative, and adaptable with a passion for environmental education and outreach.

Additional Requirements:

  • Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and evenings as needed.
  • Physical capability to perform tasks related to handling animals and setting up for programs.

How to Apply

Summer Nature Camp Lead Teachers and Assistants - Summer 2025

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).

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

Marketing & Communications Assistant

Position Type: Part-Time

 

Overview

Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary is seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Marketing and Communications Assistant to join our team. This role is designed to support our marketing and communications director, who currently handles all aspects of promoting and publicizing the Heard’s programs, exhibits, and events as well as some of the graphic design. We are looking for a candidate who is eager to learn, has relevant skills, and can quickly adapt to new tasks.

 

Key Responsibilities

  • Assist in the creation and execution of marketing campaigns, strategies, and deliverables
  • Help manage social media accounts, such content creation, scheduling, and engagement
  • Support the development of promotional materials such as articles, digital ads, brochures, newsletters, and flyers
  • Assist in maintaining and updating the organization’s website
  • Assist in submitting information to various news platforms
  • Aid in promoting events and programs
  • Perform administrative duties as needed to support the marketing and communications efforts
  • Assist in engaging with the community and stakeholders to enhance the organization’s visibility and reputation

 

Qualifications & Skills

  • High school diploma or equivalent; some college coursework in natural sciences, graphic design, marketing, communications, or related field preferred
  • Self-motivated and able to handle new challenges without constant supervision
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including copy writing
  • Multitasking and the ability to apply complex information
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
  • Experience with graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite) is a plus
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Interest in learning new skills and taking on diverse tasks
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Passion for natural science, wildlife conservation, and environmental education

 

Benefits

  • Up to 30 hours per week depending on experience and skills
  • Opportunity to work in a dynamic and engaging environment
  • Hands-on experience in various aspects of marketing and communications

How to Apply


If you are passionate about nature and eager to contribute to the mission of Heard Natural Science Museum & Wildlife Sanctuary, we encourage you to apply! Please send your resume, a cover letter detailing your interest and relevant experience, and samples of previous work that may illustrate your relevant skills.

Application