Environmental Education & Outreach Specialist

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Environmental Education & Outreach AmeriCorps member's primary responsibility is to develop and deliver Lakeside Lab’s environmental education programs. These programs include summer camps, family programs, outreach events, field trips and more. The Environmental Education & Outreach AmeriCorps member will show leadership, professionalism, and a passion for the outdoors. They must enjoy working with children and the general public and have a strong interest in natural sciences and a desire to share it with others. 

POSITION/SITE SPECIFIC MEMBER SERVICE ACTIVITIES:

• Implement environmental education programs for 800+ learners of all ages, including science/nature camps for PreK – 10th grade, field trips, family and adult programs, volunteer programs and other outreach events.
• Advance the Leader-in-Training program for high school aged students.
• Work with local partners to create a Wildlife Habitat Education Program (WHEP) in Dickinson County.
• Develop hands-on PreK-12 grade science curriculum to be used during field trips and other program events.
• Create connections with individuals, volunteers, and organizations in the community for program and outreach enhancement.
• Foster an appreciation and sense of stewardship for the environment in others.
• Produce educational materials such as posters, handouts, games and other educational supplies.
• Members may engage in other allowable activities that are not specifically outlined in the position description, but that support the AmeriCorps program design, and which will help the Program meet its goals. Under no circumstances will members be asked to perform prohibited activities.
• Incorporate and implement service-learning events for youth participants or other outreach on MLK Day of Service, Global Youth Service Day, and one other National Day of Service selected by the member.
• Required attendance at AmeriCorps 4-H Life After AmeriCorps (time TBD)

DESIRED SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:

• Passion for outdoor learning experiences and connecting people of all ages to nature.
• Confidence in public speaking with learners of all ages.
• Good organizational skills and ability to handle multiple tasks and roles, patiently and professionally.
• Ability to prepare basic lesson plans and educational materials.
• Familiarity with best science practices.
• Willingness to research and learn about the natural history of the area and ability to identify the native plants and animals of the area.
• General knowledge of outdoor recreation such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and orienteering.
• Ability to operate computers and audiovisual equipment necessary for program delivery.
• CPR and First Aid certification, will train if not current

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA:

• Have or will obtain diploma/GED
• Must be 17 years or older at the start of service (no upper age limit)
• Must pass a national service criminal history check prior to the first day of service
• Hold one of the following citizenship statuses: US citizen, US national, or Lawful Permanent Resident

BENEFITS:

• Education Award received upon successful completion of term of service ($6,895).
• Housing provided, including meals during summer months
• Health care, if applicable
• Childcare coverage if the member qualifies
• Student loan forbearance and interest payments for eligible loans

APPLICATION DEADLINE

• Application deadline is November 26th, 2023.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested applicants should apply by sending a cover letter and resume to Ashley Scheve, Education Coordinator at ashley-scheve@uiowa.edu. Questions regarding the position should be directed toward Ashley Scheve.