Education and Outreach Coordinator

JEFFERSON SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT

POSITION DESCRIPTION

EDUCATION AND OUTREACH COORDINATOR

The Jefferson Soil and Water Conservation District is looking for a team member to assist with the coordination and expansion of the District’s education programming.  Candidates should have a genuine interest in natural resources, conservation, and education as well as the motivation and ability to share information effectively with audiences of all ages.

Nature and Purpose of the Position:

The basic function of the Education and Outreach Coordinator is to provide conservation and natural resources education and outreach to students, the general public, civic organizations, libraries, clubs, and other groups to promote conservation stewardship and help Jefferson County citizens gain an awareness of conservation topics and build relationships with the natural world.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Plan and conduct the youth education program of the District through outdoor and in-classroom programs, presentations, and electronic media. Examples of current youth education programs include but are not limited to: Annual Fernwood State Forest Outdoor Days Fifth Grade Program, Envirothon High School Academic Competition, and stream activity field days for middle and high school students.
• Plan and conduct instructive walks, hikes, field days, and events at the District’s Preserves Properties – Hellbender Preserve, Quaker Ridge Preserve, Rush Run Wetlands Preserve, and Piney Fork Preserve and Trail.
• Prepare and conduct presentations on conservation and natural resources topics, District functions, and local projects to service groups, clubs, units of government and partners. Actively seek opportunities to present information to new groups.
• Assist staff in planning and coordinating landowner/land user workshops and field days.
• Develop, organize, and conduct workshops and training to educate teachers on natural resource conservation, agriculture, and related topics.
• Apply for educational program grants and seek sponsorships for programs and events.
• Maintain a well-established public outreach and marketing program. Actively promote the conservation initiatives and mission of the Jefferson Soil and Water Conservation District in a professional and friendly manner. Use a variety of media such as radio, television, newspaper, newsletters, promotional displays, social media, short videos, etc. to raise awareness of conservation topics, activities, and events.

Additional Requirements:

• Pursue continuing education and professional development opportunities as identified and directed.
• Maintain detailed records of time utilization, presentations completed, number of participants and presentation evaluations in the state reporting system.
• Perform other related duties as needed and required by the District Administrator.

Qualifications:

• Higher education in Education or Environmental field such as conservation, natural resources or science; or relevant experience in environmental field or education; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Familiarity with conservation issues and topics such as soil science, erosion and drainage, non-point source pollution, agriculture, forestry, wetlands, watersheds, and wildlife.
• Above-average verbal presentation and writing skills required. Ability to communicate in a professional, accurate and enthusiastic manner with a wide range of audiences.
• Above-average ability to accurately research and efficiently absorb, understand, and apply new information.
• Ability to adapt programs and content to meet the learning needs of a range of audiences.
• Ability to work well within a small team environment, including respecting and supporting others and communicating in a timely and sincere manner with team members and supervisors.
• Ability to accommodate a work schedule that allows for occasional program coordination on off-days, weekends, or evenings.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Publisher, Excel, Power Point).
• Ability to pass a background check.
• Must possess valid driver license and have good driving record.

Administration:

The employee occupying this position is responsible to the Board of Supervisors and shall be subject to the direction of the Board. The District Administrator will be the direct supervisor. The probationary period for this position is six months.

Salary and Benefits:

Starting salary $19.00 – $20.00 per hour with future salary growth based on performance. This is a full-time position with benefits. Benefits package includes Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS), health and life insurance, vacation time, sick leave, compensatory time, and deferred compensation option.

Work Schedule:

Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4:30PM (workdays are eight hours with a half-hour unpaid lunch). After a successful six-month probationary period, employee will have the option to work four ten-hour days, Tuesday through Friday. Occasional off-day, weekend, or evening program, event, and meeting coordination or attendance is required.