Natural Resources Water Educator

University of Wisconsin Madison • Wisconsin Rapids, WI

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Natural Resources Water Educator designs, delivers, and evaluates research-based educational programming and services aligned with the position's programmatic focus in Wood County. Initial programming focus will include: Building and strengthening partnerships among farmers, residents, watershed organizations, conservation partners, educators, and local officials to advance collaborative, community-driven water resource solutions. Providing research-based education, outreach, and public engagement on water quality, water quantity, conservation practices, groundwater issues, and other emerging water resource topics. Supporting and coordinating watershed-based conservation initiatives, including producer-led watershed groups, by facilitating collaboration and sustaining momentum toward shared goals. Helping communities identify and implement effective water resource solutions by connecting them with resources, funding opportunities, technical expertise, and innovative conservation approaches. Serving as a local water resource leader and trusted source of information by identifying emerging issues, fostering informed dialogue, and connecting community needs with Extension expertise.

Requirements

• At least 2 years work experience relevant to the programmatic responsibilities of the position
• Ability to communicate effectively (both in writing and verbally) using a variety of methods and technology
• Demonstrated ability to effectively work with people from a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives
• Knowledge of water resources, watersheds, aquatic ecosystems, groundwater, water quality, conservation practices, and natural resource stewardship principles
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with community members, schools, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and other stakeholders
• Have a valid drivers license and a reliable source of independent transportation for periodic in-state work travel, and/or comply with requirements for UW-Madison vehicle use authorization.
• Ability to lift educational equipment, up to 25 pounds with assistance

Nice To Haves

• A combination of at least 3 years of relevant work experience in the area of programming and service delivery such as water quality, civic engagement, adult education and outreach, organizational development and other collaborative, partner-accountable experiences
• Demonstrated success in developing, delivering, and evaluating educational programs for diverse audiences utilizing a variety of educational techniques, methods, and modes
• Experience planning, implementing, and/or evaluating civic engagement, leadership and organizational development, and watershed planning with community groups
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal water resource policies, programs, and regulations
• Familiarity with stormwater management, watershed protection, lake and stream ecology, groundwater management, or agricultural conservation practices
• Experience using GIS, data visualization, environmental monitoring tools, or field sampling techniques

Responsibilities

• May assist with the monitoring of outreach program budget spending
• Schedules and secures resources and communicates logistics in support of an outreach program
• Leads the implementation of programs, policies, and procedures through oversight of day-to-day activities for program staff and student and community volunteers
• Delivers outreach program content and materials to community members
• Researches, develops, and facilitates outreach program content and materials
• Identifies, promotes, and maintains external partnerships to support the outreach program
• Communicates plans, activities, and achievements to Program Managers, partners and relevant stakeholders
• Develops and evaluates curriculum and programs and provides recommendations for improvement

Benefits

• Generous paid time off
• Competitively priced health/dental/vision/life insurance
• Tax-advantaged savings accounts
• Participation in the nationally recognized Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) pension fund

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level