Recreation Leader IV- Environmental Educator

City of Alexandria•Alexandria, VA

4h•Onsite

About The Position

The Recreation Leader IV/Environmental Educator plays a leading role in developing, implementing, and managing free and fee based environmental education programming at the Jerome “Buddie” Ford Nature Center. This is a full-time supervisory position that reports to and receives support from the Recreation Manager/Naturalist. The Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities (RPCA) enriches the lives of Alexandria residents through diverse programming, well-maintained public spaces, and inclusive cultural activities. RPCA is nationally accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA), having met rigorous best-practice standards in the industry.

Requirements

Expertise on environmental science and nature-based education.
Knowledge of the principles and practices of program development, management and administration.
Knowledge of Virginia’s Science Standards of Learning (SOLs).
Demonstrated ability to train and supervise staff and volunteers.
Demonstrated ability to care for and manage an animal collection.
Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, program participants, and partners.
Independent judgment and initiative.
Enthusiasm, flexibility.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Commitment to provide great customer experiences.
Availability to work various hours which include days, evenings, weekends and some holidays.
Associate Degree and four (4) years of experience or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Nice To Haves

Completion of college-level coursework in wildlife biology, natural resources, environmental science, parks and recreation, or related field.
Experience administering oral and injectable medications for exotic animals.
Experience with RecTrac and/or other recreation management software, Canva and/or Adobe Creative Cloud, and Microsoft 365.
Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP), Certified Interpretive Guide, Virginia Master Naturalist, and/or Virginia Environmental Education Certification.

Responsibilities

Plan, lead, and evaluate on-site, school-based, and community outreach environmental education programming.
Assist with the recruitment, training, supervision, and evaluation of seasonal and part-time staff, volunteers, and interns.
Assist in managing the day-to-day operations of the Nature Center including facilities management, program administration, and overseeing the care and use of a live animal collection.
Develop and maintain relationships with public and private schools, City agencies, and community organizations to maximize program reach, accessibility, and impact.
Help maintain registration database, expense and revenue records, program and participant metrics, and contribute to monthly Departmental reports.
Contribute to the production and distribution of seasonal program guides, promotional materials and educational resources.