Education Coordinator

University of Texas at Austin • Port Aransas, TX

1d • $55,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The purpose of the position is that the Education Coordinator (EC) supports the Mission-Aransas National Estuarine Research Reserve (Reserve) and the University of Texas Marine Science Institute (UTMSI) by developing, coordinating, and delivering environmental education programs and curriculum for K–12 students, the public, and community audiences. This position plays a key role in creating innovative, standards-aligned programming and implementing high-quality, hands-on learning experiences both onsite and in the field. The EC supervises the education specialists, volunteer coordinator, aquarists, and interns associated with the education program. This position is located in Port Aransas, Tx.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in one of the biological, physical, or environmental sciences
• Four years of recent experience presenting formal or informal education or interpretation programs
• One year of experience providing oversight of and supervision in an environmental, youth or community development, or education-related program
• Demonstrated strong interpersonal and communication skills that contribute to positive and productive workplace relationships, effective leadership and sustained partnerships
• Experience developing and implementing environmental education programs
• Familiarity with common Microsoft Windows software, such as Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
• Basic knowledge of environmental ecology
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Nice To Haves

• A Master's degree from an accredited college or university in environmental education or interpretation, water resources, marine sciences, natural resource management, conservation, or a related field
• Knowledge of ecology, history and resource management issues related to Texas or the Gulf of Mexico coast
• Experience developing engaging community programming, interpretive exhibits and materials
• Demonstrated success in developing, delivering, and evaluating educational programs for various audiences utilizing a variety of educational techniques, methods, and modes
• Demonstrated experience developing effective partnerships or coalitions with community partners and local governments
• Prior experience on small vessels and conducting water activities.

Responsibilities

• Education Program Strategic Planning, Development, and Budget Management and Reporting: Develop and implement an education strategy aligned with the Reserve management plan and the goals of the National Estuarine Research Reserve (NERR) system, including operating policies and procedures for the education program. Maintain and analyze budgets and accounts, including gifts and grants, assigned to UTMSI and Reserve education programs, such as K-12 Ed Services including reservations for the ERC Dorm, Bay Education Center, Teachers on the Estuaries (TOTE), NERR EDU and grant accounts. Report progress to funders and the Reserve’s lead agencies and contribute to educational efforts within UTMSI, UT Austin, and NOAA.
• Supervision and Leadership: Provide leadership, professional development opportunities, support and supervision for the Education Team. Lead the hiring process, manage performance and resolve personnel issues. Provide oversite and guidance for Volunteer Services Program. Occasionally serve on committees or boards that guide education efforts in the region, state or NERR System
• PK - 12 and Post-secondary Education: Direct and maintain standards for design, implementation and assessment of all school and public education programs and experiences. Lead the development and implementation of the Teachers on the Estuary education program, a place-based and outdoor education mentoring program that provides professional learning opportunities and collaborative mentoring for formal PK-12 educators. Lead the development and implementation of the K-12 Estuarine Education Program (KEEP), working with NERRS colleagues and local partners to deliver estuarine and watershed-based training to students in grades K through 12. Plan and implement accessible field experiences and project-based learning opportunities that integrate state and national educational standards and research activities in the area of the Reserve. Direct and maintain standards for design, implementation and assessment of all school and public education programs and experiences, such as Exploration Labs, Field Experiences, Teacher Workshops, Tours, Exhibits, R/V Katy Excursions, SOS Programs, Community Engagements, and Summer Science. Facilitate opportunities for UTMSI and UT Austin instructors to use the reserve for field and lab experiences in their classes.
• Cross Program Support: Collaborate with Reserve Sector Coordinators, as well as UTMSI faculty, students and science staff, to integrate research and program efforts into education and outreach experiences, programs and exhibits/displays (including trails, PMSEC, BEC, and Fennessey Ranch). Coordinate and/or contribute to funding proposals that support and expand Reserve and UTMSI education and outreach.
• Partnerships: Cultivate and manage small and large-scale collaborative programs and partnerships to support and extend Reserve mission, within and outside of MSI and UT Austin. Represent UTMSI and Reserve education programs, efforts and advancement within NERRS, and with other regional, state and national organizations, agencies, or associations. Generate and maintain partnerships with local school districts, educational and environmental organizations and agencies to develop responsive programming.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees