Environmental Stewardship Specialist

City of Philadelphia • Philadelphia, PA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Environmental Stewardship Specialist reports to the Environmental Stewardship Manager and supports the delivery of citywide Environmental Stewardship programs. This role includes engaging with volunteers, park users, and community members to build support for the natural areas within the park system. The Specialist will lead weekly volunteer events, support community engagement efforts, and contribute to departmental goals, with a focus on Cobbs Creek Park and Pennypack Park. Additional responsibilities include assisting with data collection and performing other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Understanding of ecology, including knowledge of Mid Atlantic plant species.
• Knowledge of proper tool usage.
• Strong communication skills; able to present ideas effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with volunteer groups to support project goals.
• Ability to safely operate large vehicles such as an F-350.
• Ability to work outdoors in adverse conditions such as rain, cold, and heat.
• Ability to lift at least 50 lbs.
• Ability to work nights and weekends as needed.
• Ability to maintain a valid driver’s license and operate a motor vehicle safely.
• Completion of a degree program at an accredited college or university.

Nice To Haves

• 1-2 years of experience or training in ecology preferred.
• 1 –2 years of experience in customer service or community organizing preferred.
• Experience working with volunteers (in a professional capacity preferred).

Responsibilities

• Support the sustaining, restoring, and enhancing of natural areas within the park system, including reclamation, replanting, and the removal of invasive plants and trash through volunteer engagement.
• Assist with capacity building for environmental stewardship groups.
• Collaborate with city departments, nonprofit partners, and community organizations to support stewardship activities.
• Serve as a departmental liaison to community and volunteer groups in Cobbs Creek Park and Pennypack Park.
• Plan and prepare sites for weekly service projects, including conducting site condition assessments and determining and obtaining necessary materials.
• Lead volunteer park projects in coordination with cross-departmental divisions.
• Support Philadelphia Water Department initiatives in Cobbs Creek Park and Pennypack Park.
• Support volunteer service days with large groups such as corporations, schools, and nonprofit organizations.
• Support Environmental Stewardship programs and initiatives.
• Assist with volunteer recruitment, onboarding, and delivering training that builds volunteers’ knowledge, skills, and capacity in environmental stewardship.
• Maintain the volunteer database and track service day metrics for reporting purposes.
• Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Unlimited FREE public transportation all year long through SEPTA’s Key Advantage program.
• 8 weeks of paid parental leave.
• Comprehensive health coverage for employees and their eligible dependents.
• Discounted medical plan through wellness program.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Generous retirement savings options.
• Eligibility to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
• Access to a wide range of tuition discounts and scholarships (10% to 40% savings) from partner colleges and universities, potentially extending to spouse and dependents.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree