Seasonal Education Specialist

~ The South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve (SSNERR), one of Department of State Lands’ divisions, was established in 1974. ~

The Reserve is a special research natural area of approximately 5,000 acres in the southern Coos estuary. The Reserve provides a location for scientists to conduct research and monitoring to improve understanding of estuaries and coastal watersheds. The Reserve also provides an array of educational programs and opportunities including a visitor center, programs led by naturalists, and formal school curricula designed for use in classroom and in the field. 

Position Overview

This position will support education programs during the busiest seasons in collaboration with the SSNERR Education and Science teams, and external partners. The position will sustain existing programs and increase long term capacity. 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. 

Responsibilities

Delivery of programs for schools and teachers:

• Deliver school programs: on-site fieldtrips, in-school lessons, after school and school break activities for k-12 audiences in the region.
• Assist with teacher workshops.
• Prepare and maintain education materials, assemble equipment and supplies.

Interpretive programs, summer camp, & outreach events:

• Support, deliver and develop interpretive programming and outreach activities, including social media and other promotion, for audiences of all ages and backgrounds about estuarine and coastal systems.
• Provide interpretive services to visitors at the Reserve and locations throughout the community
• Assist education staff with summer science camp and other activities for children ages 5-18.

Visitor Services:

• Provide visitor services at South Slough Interpretive Center, such as greeting visitors, answering inquiries, directing phone calls, assisting with audio-visual programs and interactive exhibits, assisting with registration for 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.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required:

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

Desired:

• Experience interacting with school and public audiences of all ages;
• Strong communication skills.
• Knowledge of Pacific Northwest estuaries and coastal ecosystems.
•  Experience delivering education programs.