Biodiversity Teaching Assistant

Department: Center for Environment and Humanity (KIS CEH)

Supervisor: Community Outreach Coordinator, Center for Environment and Humanity

Position Start Date: As soon as possible

About KIS CEH: Kodaikanal International School’s Center for Environment and Humanity (KIS CEH) uses its setting in the Palani Hills to identify regional and global environmental issues. We work with local experts such as farmers, scientists, researchers, civic organizations, and official agencies to identify solutions to issues facing our bioregion. We also seek to bridge knowledge gaps by exchanging ideas with people in our community. The Center recognizes the relationship between ecological and social processes, and seeks to promote more sustainable ways for humans to interact with their environment. Our aim is to integrate environmental consciousness into government policies, private institutions, businesses, schools, and individual lifestyles. We focus our programs around the following areas:

• Waste Management
• Regenerative Agriculture
• Climate Change
• Biodiversity

Position Description: 

The Ecology and Biodiversity Instructor will support the Community Outreach Coordinator in the design, development and implementation of the CEH’s environmental education programs. The Instructor should possess a strong background in natural history, ecology, or other related fields. They must enjoy working with youth to be creative and enthusiastic about nature and conservation.  The environmental education programs at CEH serve a broad audience, from students of government aided schools in Kodaikanal, to KIS students, and other international school students around the world. The objective of CEH’s education programs are:

• To provide immersive and experiential learning opportunities for individuals to explore the unique Palani Hills
• To encourage students to explore environmental issues specific to Kodaikanal, engage in problem solving, and take action
• To transfer the knowledge and skills required for individuals to make informed and responsible decision, instilling a sense of environmental stewardship across all areas of life

Qualifications

• Msc in Ecology and Environment Sciences, Botany, Zoology, or MA English Literature with a strong background in environment and ecology
• 2+ years of experience in environmental research, biodiversity and ecology conservation practices, environmental education, and/or experience in educational content/curriculum development
• Fluent in English and Tamil, written and spoken
• Excellent writing skills (English and Tamil)
• Excellent public speaking/presentation skills (English and Tamil)
• Knowledge of MS Office and Google Drive

Key Responsibilities

• Assisting the program manager in preparing educational materials for lectures, classroom discussions and hands on activities
• Facilitating indoor and outdoor learning activities in ecology and environment subjects
• Organizing and chaperoning students during educational trips and campaigns
• Supervising students during non-classroom time and arrange recreational activities
• Reviewing and becoming familiar with the natural history and conservation aspects of Kodaikanal and the Palani Hills
• All other relevant tasks as requested by CEH to promote its mission and vision

Other Specifics

• Job requires frequent travel for field visits, nature walks and trekking, and interaction with the local community
• 2 and 4-wheeler license is required for local transportation around Kodaikanal
• Monday - Saturday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• This is a temporary 1-year position with possibility of extension depending on program funding, objectives, and priorities

Application Process:

1. Download Application Form >> KIS Academic Position Application Form
2. Fill-in the required information
3. Use the form below to submit your application along with your resume

Please note that applications that do not include the application form and a resume will not be considered.