Education & Outreach Specialist

Pinellas County Government • Largo, FL

4d • Onsite

About The Position

Performs highly specialized work with designated responsibility in operating extension education and public outreach programs within the County Extension Division of the Parks & Conservation Resources Department. Assists with managing and operating statewide extension educational programs in distance education and horticulture. Implements and evaluates educational programs and provides advice and guidance to the public in distance education and horticulture program areas. The position is based at the Parks Administration Building in Largo, Florida, and is part-time at 24 hours per week, Monday through Friday.

Requirements

• Experience in horticulture, botany, education, biology, life sciences, natural resources, or a related field.
• A degree in horticulture, botany, education, biology, life sciences, natural resources, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and/or experience.
• One of the stated education and experience pathways: four years of relevant experience; an associate degree in a relevant field and at least two years of relevant experience; or a bachelor's or higher-level degree in a relevant field.
• Possess and maintain a valid State of Florida Driver’s License upon hire, subject to eligibility based on evaluation of a Motor Vehicle Record driving report.
• Provide personal, properly licensed, and insured automobile transportation for fieldwork.
• Be available to work a variety of schedules, including compulsory work periods during special, emergency, and/or disaster situations.
• Ability to work some Saturdays and Sundays and to work evenings as necessary.
• Ability to work outdoors in inclement weather.
• Knowledge of pertinent laws, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures relating to the County Extension Division.
• Knowledge of County education and outreach programs, curricula, and materials.
• Knowledge of business English, spelling, and arithmetic.
• Knowledge of modern office equipment, practices, and procedures.
• Knowledge of educational methodologies and ability to provide information correctly and concisely, orally and in writing.
• Skill in public speaking and/or dealing with the public.
• Skill in mass media techniques, including internet, video educational presentations, PowerPoint presentations, and radio interviews.
• Ability to formulate and present ideas and topics clearly and concisely in written, oral, or graphic form.
• Ability to apply computer applications and software.
• Ability to relate courteously and effectively with the general public and others.
• Ability to make independent, sound judgments.

Nice To Haves

• Vegetable garden or urban agriculture experience.
• Knowledge of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) or Integrated Vegetation Management (IVM) best practices.
• Knowledge of County extension programs, curricula, and materials.
• Bilingual ability preferred; at a minimum, the ability to understand and communicate with Spanish-speaking individuals.
• Public speaking experience.

Responsibilities

• Assist with facilitating educational programs for various groups.
• Coordinate, train, and schedule horticulture volunteers who work with the public.
• Distribute bulletins, leaflets, newsletters, and other written information to the public.
• Educate and advise the public on planting, growing, pruning, and maintaining trees and plants, including fruits and vegetables.
• Prepare, create, and write correspondence responding to written and verbal questions.
• Research and gather resource materials, including visuals, demonstration supplies, and literature.
• Manage volunteer activities within the section or department.
• Assist UF/IFAS agents with special assignments and projects.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Health, vision, prescription, dental, life, and disability insurance options.
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options.
• Pro-rated annual leave and paid holidays.
• Wellness Program, including a Wellness Center, gym discounts, and classes.
• Florida Retirement System membership with investment and pension options, as well as deferred compensation programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Education Level: Associate degree