Youth Volunteer Coordinator

Organization and Program Description:

The Kenai Watershed Forum is an environmental non-profit located in Soldotna, Alaska whose mission is “Working together for healthy watersheds on the Kenai Peninsula”. With seven permanent employees, KWF utilizes a non-adversarial approach, focusing on solutions through high quality research, education, and restoration programs to meet the evolving needs of the region. Stream Watch, one of KWF’s longest running programs, is a national award-winning volunteer program that promotes river stewardship on the Kenai Peninsula. Jr. Stream Watch focuses on engaging high school students to encourage stewardship of our waterways and provide experiences in natural resource related fields. The Youth Volunteer Coordinator will facilitate events and opportunities based on participants’ interests that create life-long, knowledgeable habitat stewards. For more information, visit www.kenaiwatershed.org or find us on Facebook.

Essential Job Functions:

• Primary: Facilitate Junior Stream Watch Program
• Supervise youth ages 13-18 during Jr. Stream Watch volunteer site visits. These visits include surveys, data collection, trash cleanup, invasive species monitoring, outreach, and site maintenance.
• Work with partners to identify program needs, and promote program development.
• Maintain records of volunteer activities, liability waivers, and Stream Watch database.
• Secondary: Assist with Stream Watch duties
• Maintain Stream Watch equipment and supply inventory. Inform coordinators on necessary purchases.
• Write Stream Watch newsletter articles, Facebook posts, and other social media releases.
• Support facilitation of volunteer training and end of season appreciation events.
• Other duties as assigned
• Contribute to other KWF programs as needed, including Invasive Species, Water Quality, and Education.
• Aid in the planning and implementation of community outreach events.

Qualifications:

• 1-3 years of experience or a Bachelor’s degree in the following or closely related fields: communications, volunteer management, environmental education, or natural resources.
• Willingness and flexibility to work weekends and evenings.
• Excellent professional communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Have a valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and ability to drive multiple hours.
• Comfort working outside in bear country in varied weather and terrain.
• Compliance with Kenai Watershed Forum and partner policies/procedures.
• Ability to work outdoors, walk 2+ miles, and have the physical skills to perform restoration activities involving lifting (50lbs), bending, digging, working with tools, etc.

Qualities of an Ideal Candidate:

• Enthusiasm for and belief in the Stream Watch mission and the mission of KWF.
• Experience working with community groups and volunteers.
• Experience working with youth in indoor and outdoor settings.