Coastal Community Program Coordinator

Start date: October 1, 2024

The Coastal Community Program Coordinator is a full-time position based in Lake Forest and Zion Illinois. This new position is funded by a grant partnership with IL Coastal Management Program (ICMP) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The Program Coordinator will create, implement, and manage community outreach and educational programming for new research into coastal wetland restoration and management at Illinois Beach State Park (IBSP). Programming will prioritize creating connections with local communities that have limited access to environmental education, stewardship opportunities, and scientific fieldwork. The position reports to the Director of the Center for Conservation Leadership (CCL) at Lake Forest Open Lands.

Within six months of hire, the program coordinator will create programming in collaboration with ICMP for implementation in 2025-2026.

• Recruit and oversee all aspects of the Eco-Ambassador Internship program.
• Schedule, create and implement educational programs for all age groups. This will include 
  working with the Illinois Natural History Survey Travelling Science Center.
• Establish opportunities for high school and college students to learn from scientists in action as they explore potential career pathways.
• Summer outreach event at Illinois Beach State Park for community members of all ages.
• Organize culminating events annually for Eco-Ambassadors to share their experiences.
• Assist with LFOLA and CCL social media content.
• Collaborate with community partners to advance Eco-Ambassador and CCL programming.
• Work with Communications team to create promotional flyers and posters for events.
• Annually evaluate the success and relevance of each program; propose changes as warranted.
• Create evaluations for program participants.

Qualifications

• The ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree in science or education and/or at least two years teaching experience working in formal or informal educational settings.
• Experience in creating community programs and community engagement.
• The candidate must be well organized, self-directed, flexible and entrepreneurial.
• Knowledge of and ability to present general science, nature, and environmental education 
  content to a diverse population of learners, including students and teachers. 
• The ability to work with diverse groups and individuals, and enthusiasm for establishing 
  authentic connections with people from various backgrounds. 
• Demonstrated commitment to JEDI.
• A high level of integrity, professionalism, and a creative, responsive style with strong attention to detail and follow through, and the ability to work independently, and as a team player.
• Ability to communicate effectively and collaboratively with other educators, school 
  administrators, outside partners, volunteers and LFOLA staff.
• Candidate must be willing and able to work a flexible schedule including occasional evenings and weekends.
• Proficiency with various social media platforms as well as MS Office, Outlook and Windows.
• Proficiency with content editing platforms such as InDesign or Canva is also desirable.
• Ability to physically lead and deliver programs in the field and lift, transport, and carry program materials off-site and throughout the preserves.
• To perform the duties of the position the candidate must possess and present a valid driver’s license and ensure reliable transportation to/from work.
• Final candidates must pass a professional background investigation