Environmental Educator/Residence Life Coordinator

Goshen College is a Christian liberal arts institution that prepares students to thrive in life, leadership and service. We strive to model an inclusive community committed to transformative justice, peace, and sustainability. A respect and appreciation of the Anabaptist-Mennonite faith perspective and practices, and a commitment to the mission, vision, core values and  community standards of Goshen College, are important for teaching and administrative faculty members.  

This position supports the mission of Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center by: a) designing and delivering PreK-12 environmental education programs, b) serving as director of residence life for undergraduate students living at Merry Lea, c) coordinating non-student Merry Lea residential experiences, and d) providing support for undergraduate and graduate learning experiences.

This position also supports Merry Lea’s Environmental Education Outreach program by delivering environmental education programs for PreK-12, family, and adult audiences, and contributes to related curriculum review and development. In serving as Merry Lea’s director of residence life, this position works to establish and maintain harmonious group living and a positive learning community dynamic for undergraduate students during the fall Sustainability Semester. They also serve in this capacity during other times of year, especially during the summer, for non-student residents including interns and student researchers. This person is the first point of contact for residents’ issues and concerns, and will facilitate engagement with other Merry Lea and Goshen College personnel as needed. Specific responsibilities of this position include assigning rooms, checking students in and out, creating relevant policies in consultation with ML Executive Director, SEED Chair, Director of Sustainability Semester, and relevant GC staff, clearly communicating expectations and policies to residents, performing periodic room/building inspections for cleanliness, and facilitating living community meetings with residents. This position also provides academic support for Sustainability and Environmental Education Department (SEED) faculty, such as coordinating field trips and guest speakers, gathering supplies, and providing logistical support.

Responsibilities related to Environmental Education Outreach (EEO) programs – 60%

• Deliver Environmental Education Outreach (EEO) programs
• Contribute to curriculum review and development

Responsibilities related to students-in-residence at Merry Lea – 40%

• Community Life
• SEED Academic Program Support
• Administrative
• General Duties

Education and/or Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Education, Outdoor Recreation, Biology, or related field
• Master’s degree in related field preferred
• 2 – 3 years experience in delivering field based education and/or crafting/managing cohesive group identity (e.g., supervising student group living, collegiate Resident Assistant, camp counselor, outdoor expedition leader, etc.)

Certifications, Licenses, Registrations:

• First Aid certification required (could be obtained after hire)
• Must have a valid driver’s license.

Skills & Competencies:

REQUIRED:

• Work or educational experience that demonstrates responsibility, self-direction, organization, and flexibility
• Basic computer skills
• Responsible, resourceful, and flexible
• Logistically savvy
• Strong people skills and sense of empathy

PREFERRED:

• Experience with spreadsheet management, social media, and database use
• Experience delivering environmental education programs
• Canoeing, boating, and camping skills
• Cooking skills
• Experience with mini-bus/passenger van driving and driving with a trailer

Work Environment/Environmental Condition:

The location of this position is at Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center, which is 28 miles southeast of Goshen. Merry Lea consists of 1,189 acres of diverse ecosystems and is managed as a preserve. There are multiple program sites and facilities including classroom and office space.

Inside environmental conditions for a portion of the time, but does include significant work outside where there may be exposure to inclement weather, exposure to pollen and spores, venomous snakes, ticks, biting insects and other elements that are a part of an intentionally natural environment.

All of the essential job functions are subject to reasonable accommodation. All job requirements listed indicate the minimum level of knowledge, skills and/or ability deemed necessary to perform the job proficiently.  This job description is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements.   Individuals may be required to perform other job-related instructions as requested by the supervisor, subject to reasonable accommodation.  This position description is not all-inclusive and may change at the option of the (supervisor or department head).  Any major change will result in the position being reviewed for reclassification.

Work includes periodic weekend and evening responsibilities.

For more detailed information and to apply, click here.