Neighborhood Environment Specialist

Groundwork Buffalo (GWB) works to bring about the sustained regeneration, improvement and management of the City of Buffalo's physical environment by developing community-based partnerships that empower people, businesses and organizations to promote environmental, economic and social well-being. GWB is a local affiliate of the Groundwork USA Network -- a group of independent, not-for-profit, environmental businesses working in conjunction with the National Parks Service and Environmental Protection Agency.

Groundwork Buffalo (GWB) will connect with and engage the residents of Buffalo's most disadvantaged neighborhoods and provide them with the means and ability to lead positive environmental and social change in their community. As part of the vision, Groundwork Buffalo will help identify, plan and implement projects that address Buffalo's vacant property crisis and help restore and protect significant water resources.

Position Overview:

Groundwork Buffalo (GWB) is seeking a highly motivated and creative individual for the position of Neighborhood Environment Specialist. This exciting opportunity will provide the right person with the opportunity to lead our new urban waters initiative within the Buffalo (NY) Mid-City focus area. Work will include community outreach and education, working with neighborhoods to identify environmental concerns and assist them in developing strategies to mitigate the problems; recruit and coordinate volunteers.

Responsibilities:

Key responsibilities include the following:

• Create a community advisory coalition for the Groundwork Buffalo focus area.
• Provide the community with a platform to communicate their concerns about their environment and determine viable solutions.
• Provide community members with opportunities to learn about environmental issues within their neighborhoods and what they can do to be proactive in improving the environment.
• Identify key water-related issues and work with neighborhoods in developing a strategy to mitigate the problems.
• As part of the Groundwork Buffalo (GWB) team, the Neighborhood Environment Specialist will have the opportunity to develop these specific outcomes:
• GWB and its partners will host community education programs to raise awareness of the effects of stormwater and urban runoff on Buffalo's water resources.
• Through GWB's outreach and education efforts, residents of the Eastside will better understand their local watershed and the impacts we have as a community on water quality and health.
• The education programs will provide participants with information on practices and techniques that can be used to reduce negative impacts on Buffalo's water resources.
• Provide workshops on green infrastructure techniques for stormwater management that address: (1) the upkeep and rehabilitation of aging and failing infrastructure and alternative methods of replacement; (2) developing resource protection strategies and environmental compliance programs that are environmentally sound and cost effective; and (3) identifying holistic strategies for environmental protection that provide multiple benefits and provide greater cost benefit to municipalities and government. The workshops will be designed for citizens living in low-income neighborhoods, their elected officials, and staff from local governmental agencies.
• GWB will employ youth to work on watershed protection/conservation projects being implemented by our partners. Skills and knowledge gained from their work experience can be transfer to their own neighborhoods and be used to address local watershed issues.

Qualifications:

Qualified applicants should have a deep understanding and passion for the relationship between people and water. Serious applicants will have practical experience in these areas:

• Natural resources management;
• Urban planning;
• Facilitating community meetings and working towards measurable outcomes;
• Connecting with diverse communities in the area of natural resources/environment;
• Developing strategies with clear measurable outcomes;
• Project management;
• Securing and leveraging resources and funding necessary to accomplish goals.

Compensation: Candidates must be able to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends. 20 hours per week; $16,250 per year.

Closing Date: October 28, 2011

To Apply:

Please submit a résumé and letter of interest.

Groundwork Buffalo
237 Main St  Ste 1200
Buffalo NY  14203-2719