Environmental Education Assistant

~ LOTT Clean Water Alliance's (LOTT) mission is to preserve and protect public health and the environment by cleaning and restoring water resources for our communities. ~

LOTT rovides wastewater management services for the urban area of north Thurston County, Washington. This includes wastewater treatment and production of Class A Reclaimed Water. LOTT is a non-profit corporation, formed by four government partners – Lacey, Olympia, Tumwater, and Thurston County.

LOTT is recognized as an industry leader, frequently visited by other wastewater utility staff from around the country and the world! Visitors come to learn how we operate and about our innovations, such as our reclaimed water program, WET Science Center, energy conservation, and unique governance structure.

Recent guests include utility staff from the Philippines, Minsk, Poland, Metro Vancouver, Canada, San Francisco and Las Gallinas, California, and Washington communities like Silverdale, King County, and Kennewick. LOTT has also hosted a number of legislative delegations, including State House of Representatives members Beth Doglio, Laurie Dolan, and the House Technology and Economic Development Committee.

Position Overview

Description:

Under direct supervision of the Education Program Manager, this position is responsible to perform or assist with a variety of education tasks in support of LOTT's education program and the WET Science Center.   

Series Concept: 

The Environmental Education Assistant is the entry-level classification in the Education Program series, which also includes the Environmental Educator and the Education Program Manager.   Positions assigned to the Environmental Education Assistant classification are distinguished by the level of supervision received, and that the role is one of supporting the education program by assisting with planning and implementing activities and projects. 

Responsibilities

Typical duties include, but are limited to: 

• Assists with day-to-day operations of the WET Science Center; greets WET Center visitors at the front desk; interacts with visitors of all-ages to engage visitors and facilitate learning; monitors use of exhibit gallery and classroom;
• Plays an integral role in LOTT's school programs; delivers youth educational programming as part of LOTT's partnership with local school districts; guides facility and building tours; provides oversight for visiting student groups;
• Develops and delivers educational programming for WET Center visitors, Saturday classroom activities, and special events as assigned;
• Participates in community partner education and outreach events as assigned;
• Assists in obtaining and preparing supplies and materials for the WET Science Center and education program; replenishes supplies; conducts weekly cleaning/sanitizing of WET Science Center display components;
• Supports the WET Science Center's volunteer program by assisting with volunteer scheduling, training and assignment of work;
• Assists with monitoring and maintaining the WET Science Center social media presence;
• Performs data entry related to program tracking and evaluation;
• Provides occasional backup coverage for LOTT's main reception area, greeting visitors, answering multi-line telephone system, and answering or directing queries from the public, staff, and customers;
• Demonstrates regular and reliable attendance; and
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Skills: 

• Excellent communication and presentation skills;
• Strong organizational skills;
• Strong classroom/group management skills;
• Proficiency with computer software, including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook;
• Proficiency with online tools and social media, including Survey Monkey, Mail Chimp, Hootsuite, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube. 

Ability to: 

• Engage audiences of all ages in learning about and supporting LOTT's mission and services;
• Develop and lead educational activities in a classroom setting for a variety of age groups and audiences;
• Understand and follow instructions and seek clarification when necessary;
• Interact with the public (pre-school through adult) and communicate educational messages in a friendly, positive, and professional manner;
• Maintain a flexible work schedule to accommodate routine night and/or weekend hours;
• Contribute to a supportive, productive, and positive workplace;
• Relate well to middle, high school, and college students;
• Work independently and as part of a team.

Education/Experience: 

• Bachelors or Associates degree, preferably with a focus in education, communications, natural sciences, or closely allied field;
• Must have experience working with K-12 students in a classroom, recreational, and/or educational setting;
• Knowledge of environmental and/or water-related issues, science, and/or teaching preferred.

Additional Requirements:

• Must possess a valid Washington State Driver's License within 30 days from date of hire;
• Must participate in LOTT's Health & Safety Program.

Working Conditions: 

• This position works Tuesday through Saturday with occasional evening hours;
• This position works primarily in an office setting, but is required to work in all areas of LOTT facilities;
• This includes traveling to remote community locations and LOTT worksites in order to meet with community partners, give presentations, and accompany tour groups;
• Due to the size and configuration of LOTT facilities, the ability to climb stairs and sufficient agility to safely navigate uneven terrain and slippery surfaces both indoors and outdoors is required;
• The Environmental Education Assistant may be exposed to a variety of health and safety conditions including toxic, corrosive, and combustible fumes and chemicals, high voltage equipment, and raw sewage;
• The physical ability to carry or otherwise transport heavy boxes, displays, exhibit furnishings, and equipment is required.

To Apply

• Please click here to email a copy of your cover letter and resume with "Environmental Education Assistant" indicated in the subject line.