Environmental Education Coordinator

The Environmental Education Coordinator should develop well-rounded knowledge of flora, fauna, geology, geography, hydrology, general ecology, and fire ecology of the Okefenokee Swamp and surrounding region of the southeastern coastal plain in general, as well as a knowledge of human history of the Okefenokee in particular.  The ability to correctly identify wildlife and plants of the Okefenokee and a deep understanding of the cultural history of the Okefenokee are essential to be successful at this position. Okefenokee training is provided upon hire.

The Environmental Education Coordinator may provide interpretation while operating a motorized boat or a canoe/kayak and must be able to enhance the visitors’ experience through skilled operation when encountering wildlife (safely maneuvering and positioning the boat for photographs and interpretation).  A variety of weather conditions must be tolerated.  Public speaking skills are a must- Environmental Education Coordinator must be able to comfortably speak to (and answer questions from) the public for programs up to 8 hours (summer camps).  Skillful interpretation, performed in a variety of methods and techniques, is paramount to the visitors’ tour experience to provide a deeply informative and enjoyable experience in the Okefenokee. The Environmental Education Coordinator will also be required to guide guests on overnight excursions into the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge.

In addition, this job may require the employee to stand, bend, kneel or lift in the course of their regular job duties.

Normal Hours:

1. Hours and expectations as set by the Director of Operations of the Okefenokee Swamp Park and Adventures.  This position will have a rotating schedule based on business needs.

Principal Accountabilities:

1. A well-rounded knowledge of flora, fauna, geology, geography, hydrology, general ecology and fire ecology of the Okefenokee Swamp and surrounding region of the southeastern coastal plain in general. (Some on the job training)
2. Knowledge of human history of the Okefenokee (Some on the job training)
3. Plan, create, support, implement, and evaluate science and cultural history educational and interpretive programs for children and adults.
4. Excellent public speaking skills are a must- Environmental Education Coordinators must be able to comfortably speak to (and answer questions from) the public of varying ages, cultural backgrounds, interests, and personalities.
5. A variety of weather conditions and biting insects must be tolerated. 
6. The ability to operate a tiller driven motorized boat and to paddle a canoe or kayak. (Some on the job training)
7. Responsible for the safety, health and well-being of all visitors.
8. Supports the mission and goals of the Okefenokee Swamp Park and Okefenokee Adventures.

Qualifications:

1. Three or more years of successful teaching (formal or in-formal)  in environmental science, history, or other related field
2. Experience in or ability to learn Google Workspace tools and products. Experience with technology is a must.
3. Completed, or able to complete, Guide training from US Fish & Wildlife-Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge as it becomes available.
4. Valid Motor Vehicle Operator’s License and good driving record.
5. Maintain first aid and CPR certification.
6. Will occasionally, lift, carry, push or pull weights up to 60+ lbs. 
7. Walks on various types of terrain in all climate conditions. 
8. Excellent communication skills.
9. Works well with the public.
10. Good interpersonal and organizational skills.  
11. Pro-active orientation, coupled with the ability to consistently present professionally and act as a team player.

Professional Responsibility:

1. Maintains his/her interpretive skills and participates in professional development activities.
2. Participates in collegial activities designed to make the entire Okefenokee Adventures and Okefenokee Swamp Park organization productive and positive.
3. Responsible for reading and adhering to the guidelines as established in the personnel handbook and adhering to all OA / OSP policies.
4. Provide educational opportunities to students and visitors through on-site and virtual field trips at the OSP & OA.  Collaborate and coordinate with available resources, such as researchers and guest lecturers.  These opportunities will provide lessons on the swamp ecosystem, including wildlife, botany, hydrology, geology and the cultural history of the Okefenokee Swamp with an emphasis on conservation and sustainability.
5. Collect and assemble instructional materials available in nature. 
6. Collaborate with Okefenokee RESA education coordinator to provide field trip and onsite programming
7. Assist in the development, revision, and implementation of professional development courses for the OSP & OA staff and volunteers.  
8. Assist in writing and coordinating curriculum guides, curriculum mapping, and curriculum alignment in science, as well as interpretive guides for staff and wayfinding for guests.
9. Assist in providing identification, development, and production of educational materials that can be accessed by wayfinding methodology such as QR codes, signage, headsets etc. for all visitation to the OSP.
10. Maintain accurate, complete, and correct records as required by Georgia Statutes and the OSP & OA.
11. Demonstrate knowledge and related experience in educational technology.
12. Assist in facilitating grant writing as requested.
13. Provide timely workday accountability reports of services and other activities to OSP.
14. Perform other duties as assigned, required or alternatively inspired.