Outreach Coordinator

The Mystic River Watershed Association (MyRWA) is a volunteer based science and advocacy group that works to protect and restore the Mystic River, its tributaries and watershed lands for the benefit of present and future generations and to celebrate the value, importance and great beauty of these natural resources.

Position Overview:

MyRWA seeks a candidate to fill the position of Outreach Coordinator. The Coordinator will work under direction from the Executive Director and closely with the Water Quality Monitoring Director. Successful applicants will be highly motivated, with a good working knowledge of how to create successful advocacy through education, experiential activities and effective communication.

Responsibilities: 

3 basic elements for this position: 

Coordinating Outreach and Membership activities:

• Coordinate the publishing of MyRWA's print newsletter
• Recruit and engage new MyRWA members and volunteers through watershed activities (walks, talks, shoreline cleanups, invasive plant removal, river trips, other events)
• Coordinate annual activities such as Herring Run, Fireworks on the Mystic and Music at the Medford Hatchshell
• Maintain and expand current MyRWA membership base
• Actively coordinate and expand MyRWA volunteers
• Help maintain website with activities and topical news
• Create regular electronic newsletter and informational bulletins
• Coordinate press releases and public information
• Support and coordinate the MyRWA Outreach Committee (e.g., develop agenda, facilitate monthly meeting and ensure follow-up on action items)

Coordinating education efforts:

• Coordinate, staff, and manage outreach events at relevant municipal events such as Town Days, environmental fairs, and seasonal and art festivals with help from volunteers
• Coordinate and act as liaison with related environmental and other organizations (e.g., climate-action groups and faith-based groups)
• Serve as a liaison with major academic institutions (e.g., MIT, Tufts University, UMASS Boston, Northeastern University, Clark University, and Lesley University)
• Lead environmental education programs such as speaking to youth organizations about watershed issues
• Assist in meetings with municipal and other stakeholders concerning water quality, as well as other issues such as public education

Assisting the Water Quality Monitoring Director:

• Expand network of volunteer water quality monitors
• Coordinate current volunteer water quality monitors and training sessions
• Present water quality monitoring findings to stakeholder groups (in conjunction with Water Quality Monitoring Director)

Qualifications:

MyRWA seeks a candidate who is outgoing, energetic and able to cultivate strong relationships with individuals and organizations. Candidates should be comfortable with all forms of educating and engaging a constituency including using social networking tools such as facebook, twitter and public speaking. Should possess great writing and multitasking skills, a reliable source of transportation; and willing to occasionally work evenings and weekends when necessary.

Preference given to applicants who understand the multiple environmental issues confronting urbanized watersheds.

Compensation: Projected pay level will be equivalent to about $30,000 annual salary. Health insurance for full time employment

• Will consider full or three quarter time depending on the candidate
• Expected start date of May 1st or earlier
• Based in MyRWA's Arlington, Massachusetts office

Deadline: April 18, 2009 

To Apply:

Please email or mail resume and cover letter. 

Search Committee
Mystic River Watershed Association
29 Academy Street
Arlington, MA 02476