Job description
Job Description
Under the supervision of the Quinta Mazatlan Manager, the Environmental Education Specialist helps to oversee and direct the planning, organizing and implementation of environmental educational programs and services for all ages. These services benefit the students, schools and our community as a whole. The Environmental Education Specialist will implement a wide variety of interpretive and environmental education programs, with opportunities to plan and develop programs. Programs are delivered to audiences of varying ages and abilities to increase the enjoyment and understanding of our natural resources in the Rio Grande Valley and Texas ecosystems, promote environmental awareness, and foster responsible stewardship. Job Responsibilities
1. Prepare for and deliver high-quality and professional environmental education and interpretive programs in non-traditional and traditional settings including: on-site classrooms, trails, gardens, off-site outreaches, scout activities, environmental curriculum for schools, birthday parties, camps, public programs and special events.
2. Provide good customer service to Quinta Mazatlan-City of McAllen visitors and promote our mission.
3. Responsible for care and maintenance of program supplies, equipment and facilities.
4. Obtain attendance numbers, assist in the gift store, receive fees at the front desk, and provide other clerical support
5. Market and advertise our mission and programs through social media, writing public relations articles, TV/radio interviews, presentations to groups, expo booths, other opportunities to attract visitors to Quinta Mazatlan.
6. Maintain cleanliness and safety of program and office space.
7. Handle and teach ethically with our environment, in accordance with Quinta Mazatlan-City of McAllen procedures and ethics.
8. Ensure safety of participants, activities and site; report any accidents, injuries and safety concerns and complete all paperwork in accordance with City of McAllen requirements.
9. Work outdoors delivering the programs in the South Texas weather with a great attitude—encouraging visitors to enjoy the great outdoors and serve as an inspiration to others.
10. Maintain outdoor educational classrooms: gardens, recycling, mulching and other to serve as a great demonstration site and inspire visitors to follow our foot steps.
11. Attend all City training, staff meetings and provide programming reports including program/event budgets.
12. Ability to work a flexible schedule, six days a week (Mon-Sat) based on programming, school contracts, and special events at Quinta Mazatlán and the City of McAllen.
13. Job requires working all Saturdays.
14. Other duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Minimum Requirements - 1. Position requires a Bachelors Degree from an accredited college or university in natural science, biology, conservation, environmental education or a related field.
2. Position requires a minimum of one (1) year of related experience. Experience in environmental education, interpretation, natural resources, sciences or related fields preferred.
3. Must possess Advanced First Aid and CPR Certification or ability to obtain within one (1) year of employment.
4. Position requires a valid Texas Class C Drivers license.
5. Knowledge of Texas and the Lower Rio Grande Valley natural history.
6. Ability to effectively present and communicate with diverse audiences-demonstrated public speaking skills to inspire the visitors.
7. Ability to teach classes using effective educational methods following center class guidelines. Make adjustments to class content, length, focus, etc. as needed based upon audience, clientele needs, environmental concerns, season, etc.
8. Ability to multi-task is important, and ability to be flexible and adaptable on a daily basis.
9. Enjoys the outdoors and such things like daily hikes and exploring nature.
10. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
11. Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
12. Proficiency with Microsoft Office, e-mail, and standard office equipment. Physical Requirements
1. Job requires working outside in all weather conditions, and walking long distances on uneven grounds.
2. Job requires ability to work in an environment with live animals, insects, dust, pollen and other natural elements as the facility and programming are outdoors.
3. Position must be able to lift at least 25 pounds—carrying binoculars, program equipment, gardening tools and other items necessary for environmental educational programming.
Additional Information
1. This position is safety sensitive and subject to random drug and alcohol testing.
2. This position has supervisory responsibilities over other staff involved with education programs.
3. Position includes working evening and/or weekend hours.
Disclaimer
This job description summarizes essential job functions and minimum job requirements for entry level work and typical duties illustrative of the type of work customarily assigned and performed in this position. However, this job description does not represent every aspect of the job nor does it guarantee permanent employment, as all positions with the City of McAllen are employment at will positions. Job descriptions are subject to periodic updates and modifications. The City reserves the right to change work assignments and other aspects of the job. The City of McAllen is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, and does not tolerate unlawful discrimination or harassment based on race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age or any other protected status under applicable federal, state or local laws. Application Special Instructions