A Northwest leader in protecting animals since 1967, the Progressive Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) shelters homeless animals, rehabilitates injured and orphaned wildlife, and empowers people to demonstrate compassion and respect for animals in their daily lives.

Position Title:               Educator

Starting Wage:              $24.00 - $26.00/hour

Purpose Summary:

The PAWS Educator will deliver PAWS Education Programs, with the goal of teaching and inspiring children and adults to demonstrate compassionate attitudes and respect towards all animals and assist with the development and growth of these programs. This includes classroom education, on-site programs, and community education & outreach.

Based in Lynnwood, WA, PAWS is a champion for animals – rehabilitating injured and orphaned wildlife, sheltering, and adopting homeless cats and dogs, and educating people to make a better world for animals and people.

This is a full-time, hourly position at 40 hours per week. Schedule will be determined upon hire.

VALUES
All employees and volunteers exemplify the values of PAWS and exhibit mindful demonstration of:

           Commitment – A champion for animals no matter the difficulty.

           Compassion – Acting to ease pain and distress.

           Kindness – Demonstrating caring toward all living beings.

           Respect – Welcoming to people of all backgrounds and identities.

           Trust – Believing in the ability and positive intention of others.

Essential Responsibilities:

In accordance with organizational policies, duties include but are not limited to:

• Successfully teach PAWS Education Programs in a professional, engaging manner, both on-site at PAWS, off-site at schools and virtually via Zoom. This includes classroom programs, workshops for kids in grades K-12, Girl Scout and Cub Scout programs, teen and preteen clubs and workshops, as well as summer mini-camps.
• Maintain accurate and timely records regarding all education and outreach programs, including pre-and post-survey responses, attendance, quotes and testimonials, and other metrics.
• Provide leadership to education program volunteers and assist with their coordination and training. Maintain timely and accurate records of volunteer information and activity in PAWS Volunteer database.
• Write and contribute content for internal publications, social media, and website about humane and environmental education, the PAWS Education department, youth involvement with PAWS, and related issues.

Other responsibilities Include:  

• Work in collaboration with the Education team to develop and update curriculum for all PAWS education programs. 
• Stay current on regional and national humane and environmental education trends, successful training and educational approaches and best practices.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Controls over Work

The PAWS Educator works under the direction of the Education Programs Manager and works under the general guidance of the Education Coordinator. This position is expected to pursue the established duties without direct supervision.

Written performance evaluations will be given after 90 days and annually thereafter.

Physical Requirements:

Work is performed both in and out of the office or classroom and in the community, with periodic remote work possible. Must be able to sit or stand for long periods of time, including working at a computer. Must be able to transport education program supplies. Candidates must be able to lift a minimum of 35 pounds with the assistance of other staff or volunteers. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.

Benefits:

Generous benefits available including health/vision/dental/long-term disability/life insurance for employees and their families, enrollment in 403(b) plan with employer contribution and match, paid time off (PTO) starting with accrual of up to 15 days annually, sick leave accrued on all hours worked, 10 paid holidays per year, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), pet supply discounts, and discounts for veterinary services at select veterinary clinics. PAWS is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness qualified employer.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

PAWS is an equal opportunity employer. PAWS employment decisions are made based on merit and business needs. PAWS is committed to recruiting, hiring, training, and promoting qualified people of all backgrounds, regardless of actual or perceived race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor. We celebrate the diversity of individual unique identity, perspectives, and experiences and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

We encourage ALL to apply.

All PAWS positions receive written performance evaluations after the first 90 days and annually thereafter.

Application process:

Upload your Cover Letter stating your qualifications and why you are interested in this position, your Resume, and complete the online Application.

Only Complete Application Packets will receive consideration.

Applications received through October 2, 2025, will receive priority consideration.

Position Open Until Filled but may be closed at any time a qualified candidate is selected.

Note: Under the provisions of the Immigration and Reform Act of 1986, the successful candidate will be required to provide both evidence of identity and eligibility for employment.

All Offers of Employment are Conditional, based on successful completion of reference and background checks.

Requirements:

• College degree or equivalent experience required. Preferred fields of study: Education, Biology, Environmental Education, or a related field.
• Must have a minimum two years demonstrated successful prior experience delivering and developing experiential learning educational programs.
• Certified Humane Education Specialist, Certified Interpretive Guide, or equivalent environmental education certification a plus.
• Experience working with volunteers, a professional and sincere attitude, and proven success as a team player.
• Ability to work evenings and weekend events as needed.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• A passion for PAWS’ mission, teaching, learning and public policy.
• Strong public speaking skills and ability to present programs in a confident, engaging manner. Experience with classroom management skills.
• Possess excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills and works effectively and respectfully with diverse groups of people.
• Ability to multi-task well. Flexibility, enthusiasm, and attention to detail are also important.
• Ability to provide reliable transportation and required insurance coverage. Must be able to transport outreach equipment and materials.
• Important considerations for this position include a sincere interest and belief in the welfare of animals, and a creative and dynamic approach to informal education.
• Ideal candidates embrace and embody the five core values of the organization: commitment, compassion, respect, kindness, and trust.