Environmental Educator

Essential Functions
Conducts environmental programming for school groups, particularly for the Palm Beach County Schools program for 1st 3rd, 5th and 7th grades, adhering to the standards set by the Florida Department of Education other schools and grades possible.
Conducts nature programs and tours emphasizing environmental concepts pertaining to the natural history, local flora and fauna, and ecology of the marine coastal environment. Interacts with and answers visitor’s questions regarding exhibits, programs & natural history of the Environmental Complex.
Prepares facilities and equipment (before and after) for programs, including cleaning, maintenance and storage.
Develops new public programs (including writing a curriculum/lesson plan).
Contributes to the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center newsletter, Hammock Happenings.
Participates in developing and evaluating environmental programs that are offered to visitors.
Participates in training volunteers on specific topics to improve their overall understanding and knowledge of the facility.
Provides training in care and handling of educational animals to staff and volunteers.
Works with the Volunteer Coordinator and Environmental Program Coordinator to ensure the volunteers are receiving and relaying the correct information to visitors, includes conducting specialized training programs for volunteers as needed.
Assists with off-site outreach events and programs.
Assist with special events on-site.
Performs other tasks as directed by Environmental Programs Coordinator and/or Nature Center Supervisor.
Assists with creating digital and printed media for marketing programs.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Knowledge of:

Local flora and fauna, particularly the dune, hammock, and mangrove communities
Conducting programs relating to the environment
Skilled in:
Creating and conducting lectures/presentations
Operating video and audio equipment
Using computers and Microsoft Office programs
Strong organizational skills
Classroom management
Environmental Interpretation and the ability to relate to guests of varying ages, backgrounds and abilities
Ability to:
Communicate with the public in a courteous and professional manner
Follow directions, work as a team, and work independently
Change the scope of instruction to be meaningful for any age group
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, co-workers, officials, program participants of all ages, and the general public
Maintain a positive attitude and a willingness to learn and teach
Adapt plans and techniques based on specific weather conditions and audience
Minimum and Preferred Qualifications
Any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from high school
Six (6) months of work experience, including experience working with children in an organized setting, which could include settings like teaching, tutoring, camps or childcare
Possession of a valid State of Florida Class “E” driver’s license
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Some college-level coursework in education, environmental or biological sciences, ecology, conservation, or similar natural science
Experience working with the public
Public speaking experience
CPR and First Aid certification
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Must be available to work at least one weekend day, evenings, and other days as needed
POST OFFER PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING REQUIREMENTS:
Final offer and employment are contingent upon successful completion of the following post-offer, pre-employment screening items:
Criminal Background Check (VECHS)
Employment Verification
Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) Check
Drug and Alcohol Screening
Physical and Environmental Demands and Conditions
The environmental conditions and physical demands described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
Occasionally ascending or descending stairs and ramps.
Occasionally remaining in a stationary position, often standing, or sitting for prolonged periods.
Continuously moving about within the immediate work area to accomplish tasks.
Continuously moving from one worksite to another.
Continuously adjusting or moving objects up to 20 pounds in all directions.
Continuously communicating with others to exchange information.
Occasionally operating a computer and other equipment using motions requiring manual dexterity or fine motor skills.
Occasionally operating motor vehicles.
Continuously assessing the accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of the work assigned.
Occasionally able to observe details accurately and identify variances.
Occasionally lift/carry objects 20 pounds or less.
Occasionally push/pull objects 20 pounds or less.
Occasionally and continuously working in a normal office environment.
Occasionally and continuously working in an area that is somewhat uncomfortable due to drafts, noise, temperature variation or the like.
Occasionally working in an area that is very uncomfortable due to extreme temperature, noise levels, or other environmental conditions.
Continuously working in an outdoor area where exposure to animals, reptiles and/or insects may occur.
Continuously demonstrating regular in-office and/or on-site attendance.