The Pennsylvania Rivers, Streams, & Schoolyards Environmental Education program provides experiential, hands-on field investigations for students in southcentral PA. These experiences include schoolyard-based explorations, classroom engagement, and canoe-based river investigations designed to provide students with the opportunity to learn about their local watershed and its connection to the Chesapeake Bay. Participants in these programs delve into the vibrant ecology of Pennsylvania through hands-on, field-based curriculum that emphasizes scientific investigation of local ecosystems that aligns with the Pennsylvania Science, Technology & Engineering, Environmental Literacy & Sustainability (STEELS) standards.

Program staff are based in Harrisburg and will travel daily throughout the southcentral region of PA to lead inquiry-based classroom lessons and conduct schoolyard investigations. Additionally, this position will be trained in how to lead canoe-based field programming. This position requires the ability to navigate a changing work schedule/time due to the varied work sites and travel.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Professionally serve as the Assistant Manager/Educator on the Pennsylvania (PA) Rivers, Streams, & Schools (RSS) Environmental Education program and other CBF field programs

a. Assist the PA RSS Program Manager along with PA Education program staff to develop and teach one-day inquiry-based field programs for schoolyard-based investigations and stream-side biological sampling & water quality testing

b. Assist the PA RSS Program Manager, along with the PA Education program staff, to develop and teach pre/post lessons in classrooms, that may be delivered before and after any schoolyard-based field experiences

c. Continually adapt program content based upon grade/age level of the group, weather, group dynamics, and feedback/evaluations from teachers/supervisors

d. Ability to communicate ecosystem and watershed concepts to a wide range of audiences, including but not limited to K-12 and teachers.

e. Plan & deliver summer courses for Chesapeake Classrooms Teacher Professional Development and/or Student Leadership Program.

2. Safely and professionally serve as a field leader for the PA Rivers, Streams, & Schoolyards Environmental Education program, and other CBF programs

a. Program staff are responsible for the safety of all field participants, ensure that all safety protocols are rigorously followed, and are required to respond to medical emergencies that may arise

b. Program staff are responsible and accountable for performing maintenance to keep all education related equipment and gear (work truck, canoe trailer, canoes, education materials) in proper working order.

c. Attend all safety and professional development training

3. Consistent ability to perform required programmatic administrative duties

a. Support and implement outreach/marketing strategy to build engagement with students, teachers, and schools across southcentral PA.

4. Other duties as assigned

Successful candidates should possess the following:

• Bachelor’s degree in education or in the environmental field or relevant experience
• 2-4 years’ experience teaching in either a formal or non-formal setting with preference given for experience in leading place-based investigations
• A proven ability and strong desire to teach in the field/outdoors (under all weather conditions)
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills
• Collaborative work style
• Knowledge of Pennsylvania rivers, streams, and environmental issues facing the Chesapeake Bay, preferred
• Experience with supporting outreach/marketing initiatives, preferred

Physical Requirements:

• Physical ability to lift and carry heavy objects-at least 45 pounds (canoes and other equipment)
• This physically demanding position involves frequent exposure to the elements
• Ability to be trained in the American Canoe Association Certifications for flat and moving water
• Ability to learn to drive a work truck and safely tow a canoe trailer over long distances with a varying work schedule

Other:

• Must pass a criminal background check & obtain the Pennsylvania background clearance credentials
• Must possess a valid driver’s license, submit a driving record, and have an acceptable driving record
• Ability to work away from home for multiple-day periods throughout the year
• Ability to work occasional evenings and/or weekends
• Must have reliable transportation to travel to other CBF field programs & locations as needed
• All education staff participate in a pre-employment & random drug screening program per the requirements of the US Coast Guard