Yurt Coordinator
The Yurt Coordinator will work out of the Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies’ Yurt at the Homer Harbor, with easy access to sandy beaches, harbor docks, and some rocky areas good for intertidal exploration. The Coordinator will manage the Yurt’s operations and schedule, and will coordinate and mentor a staff of 1-2 educators. They will assist the Yurt Environmental Educator in leading activities for SPIT Kids (ages 6-10) 2-3 mornings per week and will regularly lead 1-hour Creatures of the Dock Tours (all ages) at the Homer Harbor. They may also lead Living Ocean Tours (all ages) when needed. Guests on these tours are guided in hands-on exploration of the ecology of Kachemak Bay. The Coordinator will spend time staffing the Yurt, greeting visitors, and providing interpretation about the Harbor, Spit, and Kachemak Bay.
This position reports to the _______.
Position runs from May 26 – September 1, 2026 (end date flexible).
Pay rate is $21.00/hour with shared housing provided ($24.00/hour without housing).
Core Duties:
Supervise and mentor a team of 1-2 Yurt educators, including scheduling daily tasks and providing feedback and evaluation for team members.
Plan and lead Creatures of the Dock Tours for varied audiences. Ensure safety of visitors of all ages while on tours and set group guidelines that are respectful of the other individuals working in the Homer Harbor.
Assist the Yurt Environmental Educator regularly with planning for and implementing youth programs, including SPIT Kids (ages 6-10) two to three mornings per week and CACS Day Camp (ages 6-9) approximately one half-day per week.
Ensure a safe, fun, and positive environment for all participants in SPIT Kids and Day Camp. Work cooperatively with guardians and other CACS staff/volunteers to provide high-quality experiences for participants. Administer basic first aid. Uphold the behavior expectations set by the group, and assist the Yurt Environmental Educator in implementing positive behavior supports as needed.
Additional Duties:
Assist with Living Ocean Tours (all ages). Work with the Yurt Marine Naturalist to ensure there is clear communication with boat captains, oyster farmers, Peterson Bay Field Station staff, and guests to build the schedule for each tour.
Perform front-facing customer service duties including but not limited to: Collecting program fees, answering questions, performing basic administrative tasks, and selling promotional items. Represent Coastal Studies to the public in a professional and friendly manner.
Maintain CACS program supplies and perform daily/weekly cleaning of the Yurt.
Provide photos, stories, and participant testimonials for advertising and grant reporting. Opportunity to help develop social media posts and marketing materials.
We are a staff that works as a team and adapts to our communities’ needs; therefore this position may work on additional programs and duties as mutually agreed upon.
Training & Mentorship:
Required participation in paid training period in Homer and at the Peterson Bay Field Station at the start of the summer, which will include training on natural sciences, interpretation, and the cultures of Kachemak Bay. Additional opportunities may be offered throughout the summer for paid professional development in specific areas related to your work.
Qualifications:
First Aid/CPR Certification required.
Knowledge of—or strong interest in learning more about—basic intertidal and marine ecology, oceanography, and history and culture of the Homer area.
Experience leading small teams of educators, volunteers, or interns.
Ability to work in a highly collaborative work environment, including skills for providing and receiving feedback.
Strong communication skills, with the ability to communicate clearly with co-workers and maintain respectful and open communication. Provide concise and easy-to-follow directions.
Good organizational skills and ability to keep track of multiple tasks and responsibilities.
Commitment to facilitating fun and inclusive learning experiences.
Commitment to CACS’s work towards justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion in our programs. Dedication to our vision of healthy ecosystems, engaged and connected communities, and inspired environmental stewards.
Demonstrated good judgment and risk management experience in dynamic outdoor settings.
Valid drivers license preferred.
We’ve left our list of desired qualifications flexible in recognition of the many forms of knowledge and experience that can exist both within and outside of typical employment or academic pathways. If you are passionate about the work and think you could do it well, please apply!
Our application form will ask for a 1-page résumé, a 1-page cover letter describing your desire to work with Coastal Studies as an organization, and a short-answer question asking you to describe your interest in the specific position. If you have questions about our application process, please navigate back to our Employment page and explore the FAQ.
