Seasonal Education Specialist

The SSNERR, one of Department of State Lands’ five divisions, was established in 1974 pursuant to an agreement between the State of Oregon and the US Department of Commerce’s Office of Ocean and Coastal Resources Management. The Reserve provides a location and facilities for SSNERR researchers, visiting scientists and members of the public to conduct research and monitoring activities designed to improve understanding of the estuaries and coastal watersheds found in this region. The Reserve also provides a wide array of educational programs and opportunities ranging from a visitor center equipped with interpretive exhibits, aquaria and multi-media displays, to personalized programs led by both professional and volunteer naturalists, to formal school curricula designed for use in classroom and in the field. A full description of the goals and objectives of the Reserve are contained in a management plan prepared by SSNERR staff for the SSNERR management commission, a seven member board appointed by the Governor to carry out the mission of the Reserve as outlined by the Oregon state legislature.

The primary purpose of this position is to collaborate with the SSNERR Education and Science teams, and external partners, this position will: Support and deliver education programs during the busiest education seasons. The position sustains existing programs and increases long term capacity for the Reserve’s education programming. The position will implement formal education programs for pre-K-12, college students and educators, including visiting school groups, in-school lessons, after school activities and teacher training. The position also works with informal programs including interpretive classes, outreach events, summer camps and visitor services. The position contributes to program development, promotion and intern and volunteer training.

This position also partners with other organizations in the region (e.g., NGOs, state and Federal agencies) in relevant professional sharing and education activities. 

Delivery of programs for schools and teachers

• Support education staff with programming for schools and teachers. Deliver a variety of school programs (both on-site fieldtrips and in-school lessons), as well as afterschool and school break programs for k-12 audiences in the region.
• Assist with teacher workshops and trainings.
• Prepare and maintain education and training materials and assemble equipment and supplies required by the curriculum.

Interpretive programs & Outreach events

• Support, deliver and develop interpretive programming and outreach activities for audiences of all ages and backgrounds about estuarine and coastal systems, especially supporting the Reserve’s priority issues identified in the management plan.
• Provides interpretive services to visitors at the Reserve and locations throughout the community.

Summer Programs

• Assist education staff with the design and delivery of summer science camp and other activities for children ages 5-18.

Visitor Services

• Provide visitor services at South Slough Interpretive Center reception area. These duties include greeting visitors and answering inquiries, directing phone calls, assisting with audio-visual programs and interactive exhibits, assisting with registration for special programs and events, and interpreting natural and cultural history for visitors. 

Program Coordination & Other Duties

• Participate as member of interpretive center and education work groups.
• Participate in coordination meetings, planning sessions, staff meetings, and trainings.
• Collaborate with the Reserve’s science team to understand and communicate research, monitoring and stewardship work.

WORKING CONDITIONS

Outdoor work hiking along trails, marsh, mud and sand with groups of children in various weather. Standing for extended periods in classrooms or at tables both inside and outdoors. Lifting materials up to 50lbs. Driving, including vehicles carrying passengers. Standard indoor office environment; regular computer use. At times a fast paced work environment with multiple demands. This position requires the ability to work on multiple tasks, sometimes under pressure of high priority deadlines. Occasional exposure to hostile or upset people. Occasional overnight travel possible.

This position is subject to a Criminal Records Check.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Three years experience reviewing, analyzing, and interpreting information, rules, and policy; or three years experience as a trainer or work experience that included presenting information to groups

OR

A Bachelor's degree in Education, Organizational Psychology, Business or Public Administration, Training and Development, Organizational Behavior, Human Resources or related field.

DESIRED ATTRIBUTES

• Experience developing and implementing hands-on, outdoor environmental education lessons;

• Experience working with pre-K-12 students and teachers;
• Strong verbal communication skills, including experience translating scientific topics to audiences of all backgrounds;
• Knowledge of coastal and estuarine habitats, natural and cultural history, environmental issues; and
• Experience delivering remote or virtual education programs.

**You must attach a resume and a cover letter of no more than two pages explaining your experience in the above desired attributes to be considered.

Apply at:  https://oregon.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/SOR_External_Career_Site/job/Charleston--DSL--South-Slough-Interpretive-Center/Seasonal-Education-Specialist_REQ-142348