Watershed Education Coordinator

Cleveland Metroparks•Parma, OH

About The Position

The Watershed Education Coordinator is a new, grant-funded position that will design, develop, and lead green infrastructure, stormwater management, and stream ecology programming for communities in the Park District. These programs will be offered through classes, workshops, standards-based school curriculum, and youth summer nature camps that provide hands-on opportunities for community members to engage with environmental issues and play a role in improving stormwater management within local watersheds. By delivering engaging programs and camps, the Watershed Education Coordinator will promote environmental awareness, provide resources for community watershed improvement initiatives, and create transformative experiences for participants. The Watershed Education Coordinator will also collaborate with Natural Resources staff on green infrastructure maintenance and act as a liaison between Watershed Stewardship Center, Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District, and West Creek Conservancy on community outreach and education initiatives. The ideal candidate is passionate about engaging community members through watershed and green infrastructure education, skilled in program development and delivery, and experienced in building meaningful connections between communities and the natural environment.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in natural or cultural history, community outreach, public health, sociology, natural resources, environmental education, or a related field required.
Minimum three years of experience as a full-time naturalist or equivalent interpretation or outdoor education experience required; or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.
Demonstrated ability to work independently off-site while maintaining a high level of professionalism and a strong work ethic.
Strong management skills and business acumen, including problem-solving, strategic planning, multitasking, collaboration, leadership, and data analysis to develop clear recommendations.
Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with stakeholders, including employees and the public.
Proficiency in software programs including all Microsoft Office programs.
Demonstrated professionalism, initiative, and discretion when managing confidential information.

Responsibilities

Program Development: Develops educational programs that highlight the natural, historical, and cultural features of Cleveland Metroparks. Designs and facilitates a variety of engaging programs, events, camps, and workshops that focus on stream ecology, watershed health, and stormwater management.
Program Delivery & Logistics: Delivers high-quality outdoor educational and recreational programming tailored to the diverse audiences served by Cleveland Metroparks. Programs may be conducted at assigned reservations, off-site locations, and special events. Coordinates outreach school and public programming which may require driving a company vehicle and loading supplies in and out of program destinations.
Watershed Education: Demonstrates strong knowledge of green infrastructure, community stormwater management, and stream ecology, effectively applying Ohio’s Learning Standards to curriculum while connecting students and community members with conservation resources aligned to their needs, interests, and skill levels.
Seasonal Staff Management: Oversees the recruitment, training, supervision, and evaluation of seasonal staff to support the successful implementation of watershed education programs.
Develops written materials, including interpretive content, newsletters, signage, and reports.
Creates, coordinates, and participates in environmental research and special projects specific to each assigned reservation.
Handles the opening and closing of various facilities and performs light maintenance when necessary.
Keeps direct supervisor promptly informed of key/significant issues or concerns.
Carries out duties and responsibilities in a safe and efficient manner to maintain a safe work environment and surrounding area for oneself, co-workers and public. Responds to hazardous situations and/or potentially unsafe conditions by taking corrective action as capable and promptly notifying supervisory personnel.
Attends conferences, trainings, and certification programs to support professional growth.
Regular and predictable attendance is expected and required. All Cleveland Metroparks employees must be prepared to work flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, and/or holidays as required.