Environmental Education Specialist

JOB DESCRIPTION:

The Coastal Bend Bays & Estuaries Program (CBBEP) is seeking a passionate and dedicated Environmental Education Specialist to join our team.  The Environmental Education Specialist will support and expand CBBEP’s existing environmental education initiatives, with a strong focus on promoting water quality awareness and conservation of bays and estuaries.  CBBEP is looking for a team member with a positive attitude, strong organizational skills, and a genuine love for the environment and a desire to share that passion with others. Must also have excellent communication skills to engage with diverse audiences that include K-12 students and teachers, the public, team members, volunteers, and numerous partners. 

This is a full-time position, grant-funded for one year, though there is a strong likelihood for extending the tenure contingent on project success and future grants. This position works under moderate supervision with some latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. The position reports to CBBEP’s Environmental Education Director.  Position will also work closely with CBBEP’s Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator who is responsible for developing and implementing public outreach programming. 

Applicants should be aware that job duties will require some work outside of normal business hours and on weekends. Duties will also require work outdoors that is subject to south Texas weather conditions. Occasional overnight travel to attend meetings and training is required. Applicant must possess a valid Texas Driver License and have reliable transportation.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

This position will involve engaging directly with K-12 students through in-classroom visits throughout the Coastal Bend, as well as assisting with the implementation of field-based learning experiences at the Nueces Delta Preserve.  The position will focus on utilizing tools like watershed models to deliver compelling, hands-on educational programming.  Position will also be responsible for providing engaging experiences for the public at outreach events like school science nights and festivals. 

CLASSROOM OUTREACH:

• Deliver TEKS-aligned, engaging, and age-appropriate environmental education presentations in schools across the Coastal Bend region.
• Utilize an interactive watershed model to educate students on water quality, nonpoint source pollution, and bay and estuarine health.
• Coordinate with teachers and school administrators to schedule visits and tailor content to curriculum standards.
• Foster student understanding of human impacts on watersheds and inspire stewardship of coastal ecosystems.

OUTREACH EVENTS:

• Deliver engaging, hands-on environmental education presentations at school science nights and other festivals/events being held throughout the Coastal Bend region.
• Utilize an interactive watershed model to educate the general public on water quality, nonpoint source pollution, and bay and estuarine health.
• Collaborate with CBBEP’s Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator to ensure that programming for outreach events is effective and achieving intended outcomes.

SUPPORT NUECES DELTA PRESERVE PROGRAMS:

• Assist in the implementation of field-based education programs at the Nueces Delta Preserve.
• Help with program setup, cleanup, and logistical coordination to ensure a safe and educational experience for all participants.
• Support special events and community outreach initiatives hosted at the Preserve.

PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT AND ADMINISTRATION:

• Maintain and care for educational materials, models, and teaching equipment.
• Assist in developing new curriculum components and updating existing materials to align with TEKS standards.
• Collect data for program evaluation and assist with reporting on program outcomes.
• Collaborate with other CBBEP staff to support broader education and outreach goals.

EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION:

REQUIRED:

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with degree in environmental education/interpretation or a degree in a field of science (e.g., biology, geology, environmental science, or another related).
• At least one year of recent experience presenting formal or informal education or interpretation programs.
• Knowledge of coastal ecology, conservation issues, and environmental education principles.
• Passion for environmental conservation and commitment to promoting stewardship among youth and communities.
• Highly motivated and self-directed.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Computer literacy in Microsoft Office is required.

PREFERRED:

• Experience in curriculum development, instructional design, and educational outreach.
• Knowledge of marine and estuarine ecology preferred.

ABOUT CBBEP:

CBBEP is a local non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to protecting and restoring the bays and estuaries of the Texas Coastal Bend. Since 1999, CBBEP has been working to create a Texas Coastal Bend with cleaner water and sediment, healthier habitats, greater public access, and a more aware and engaged public. With the help of federal, state, and local partners, the CBBEP has restored thousands of acres of marsh habitat, funded dozens of projects designed to improve water quality, and installed infrastructure to enhance public access opportunities. In addition to implementing projects that address priority issues like water quality, habitat restoration, and nature tourism, CBBEP has created organizational programs to conserve coastal birds and their habitats, conduct environmental education programs, and acquire coastal habitats for the purposes of conservation. To learn more visit www.cbbep.org.

CBBEP supports a healthy work-life balance and recognizes that there are tangible benefits from supporting flexible working practices and assisting employees to achieve a balance in their work commitments and their life outside of work. Employees work a standard workweek but are occasionally required to work overtime, including some evenings and weekends.

CBBEP is an equal opportunity, drug-free employer, committed to diversity in the workplace. EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disability