OPEN POSITIONS / Education and Training Division: Volunteer / Education Department Head

Education Department Head

Details: Volunteer - Remote

Time Commitment: 20-25 hours/month

Unit: Education and Training Division: Volunteer

Reports to: Tim White, Education& Training Division Head

Contact: Tim White, twhite@caves.org

Apply By: 12/31/2025

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ABOUT THE NSS:

Founded in 1941, the NSS is the largest membership organization dedicated to caves & caving. Composed of over 8,000 members and 250+ local chapters - known as grottos - we connect cavers so they can explore, study and conserve caves worldwide.

Org Chart
Strategic Plan

ABOUT THE POSITION:

Do you want to share your passion for caves and caving with others? Responsible caving starts with education. The National Speleological Society (NSS) is looking for a dedicated volunteer to serve as the Education Department’s leader. By joining us, you will make a tangible difference in how we educate the public and students of all ages about our mission of exploration, study, and protection of caves.

The Education Department is within the Education and Training Division and would work with and directly report to the Education & Training Division Head. The Department currently includes the Education Grants and Scholarship Committee, Brochures and Displays Committee, and webinar and SpeleoGuest programs. The Training Department includes two highly successful training programs delivered by the National Cave Rescue Commission (NCRC) and Vertical Training Commission (VTC), as well as the Safety and Techniques Committee.

GENERAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Work with and directly report to the Education and Training Division Head.
  • Direct, manage, and expand educational programs that align with the Society’s mission.
  • Work with volunteers and staff within the Department and Division, and across the NSS, to create positive and safe learning and training environments.
  • Provide expertise for the creation, development, and delivery of engaging age-appropriate, in-person and virtual educational activities, resources, and programs, especially within Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields that encourage investigation, exploration, and discovery.
  • Recruit, coordinate, train, and empower volunteers in the creation, development, and delivery of educational programs and resources, including assisting with NCRC and VTC volunteers.
  • Raise awareness for educational programs and resources, including print and online (website, social media) materials, as well as grants and scholarship opportunities, and outreach activities and events.
  • Work with the Conservation Outreach Committee (Conservation and Science Division) and other groups across the Society to promote cave and karst conservation and science outreach, such as with the interactive CaveSim program.

    • SPECIFIC JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Background in education or related field, with teaching, coaching, and/or counseling experience.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong organizational and project management skills.
  • Adaptive interpersonal skills, with a dependable, enthusiastic, and positive attitude.
  • Comfortable working outdoors, including in caves, in all weather conditions and terrain.
  • Genuine passion for the NSS’s mission and understanding how education can assist with and promote our important work.

    • HOW TO APPLY:

    Volunteering is a rewarding way to give back to the NSS and help spread our mission. Ready to make an impact? Apply today!
    Applications should be sent by December 31, 2025. Contact us at twhite@caves.org.

    The NSS is committed to diversity and inclusion. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply.