Overview
The Department of Conservation and Recreation manages one of the largest and most diverse state parks systems in the nation and protects and enhances natural resources and outdoor recreational opportunities throughout Massachusetts. The DCR system includes over 450,000 acres of parks, forests, water supply protection lands, beaches, lakes, ponds, playgrounds, swimming pools, skating rinks, trails, golf courses and parkways.
The Department of Conservation and Recreation seeks qualified applicants for the position of Program Coordinator I – School and Interpretive Programs Coordinator for the Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (131 Waquoit, East Falmouth, MA). The position is responsible for planning, developing, presenting and evaluating school and interpretive programs and materials for the Waquoit Bay Reserve at the Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
-Plan, develop, present and evaluate interpretive programs for the public within the Reserve and conduct outreach to venues within the community as requested to increase appreciation of the Reserve and its mission and to improve environmental literacy.
-Liaise with schools to plan, develop, present and evaluate MA standards-based classroom and field-based programs for K-12 students to increase understanding of science research and environmental literacy. Provide support such as student mentoring, judging at science fairs, and consultation with teachers.
-Liaise with DCR Interpretive staff at monthly meetings and participate in DCR initiatives and programs to support statewide interpretive plans and efforts.
-Work with DCR Interpretive staff to develop and present trainings and workshops for statewide interpretive staff, including annual Coastal Interpretive Training to increase knowledge and abilities of DCR staff.
-Hire, train and supervise WBNERR’s seasonal park interpreters, education interns and volunteers, to increase knowledge and abilities of staff and partners.
-Coordinate with the Friends of the Waquoit Bay Reserve and Science School educators in the design and implementation of the WBRF Science School.
-Review, analyze and report program data to DCR and NERRS to determine progress and effectiveness and to make recommendations for changes that increase success of program objectives.
-Provide customer service to visitors to enhance their state park experience and serve the needs of the public.
-Assist in development of communication products, exhibits, signs, and other interpretive elements at the Reserve to enhance visitor experiences and knowledge.
-Create and distribute flyers and program information to various media outlets within the community to publicize programs and increase knowledge of the Reserve and attendance at our programs.
-Contract with and supervise approved program vendors and coordinate with partners to expand program offerings.
-Maintain education related materials, visitor center hand-outs, aquaria and equipment, including purchasing of supplies as needed to provide quality experiences and information to our program participants and visitors.
-Participate in educational conferences and professional meetings to keep current with latest science content and education trends
-Participate in NERRS (National Estuarine Research Reserve system) programs and meetings.
-Assist with other duties as necessary to support WBNERR programs and staff.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
-Graduate degree in science, education or related field
-3 to 5 years program development and teaching experience
-Knowledge of coastal ecosystems, educational theory, and interpretive techniques
-Public speaking and written communication skills
-Ability to conduct training and instruction
-Ability to develop partnerships with schools and other organizations
-Computer experience, Microsoft Office, desktop publishing skills
-Curriculum writing skills
-Editing skills
-Ability to walk several miles over uneven terrain and work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions
-Ability to lift 30 pounds
Substitutions:
I. A Bachelor’s or higher degree with a major in business administration, business management or public administration may be substituted for the required experience.*
II. A Bachelor’s or higher degree with a major other than in business administration, business management or public administration may be substituted for a maximum of one year of the required experience.*
*Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.
Comprehensive Benefits
When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.
Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!
Executive Order #595: As a condition of employment, successful applicants will be required to have received COVID-19 vaccination or an approved exemption as of their start date. Details relating to demonstrating compliance with this requirement will be provided to applicants selected for employment. Applicants who receive an offer of employment who can provide documentation that the vaccine is medically contraindicated or who object to vaccination due to a sincerely held religious belief may make a request for exemption.
An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don’t meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.
