Friends of the Rappahannock is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religious creed, gender, national origin, ancestry, marital status, age, sexual orientation, or disability. We are inclusive. We believe diversity drives innovation. We are always growing our partnerships and believe it takes a watershed to make a difference. We strongly encourage applications from People of Color, LGBTQ+ people, and those who are members of other marginalized communities.
Friends of the Rappahannock (FOR) is a 501c3 watershed protection organization. FOR works to be the voice and active force for a healthy and scenic Rappahannock River. We accomplish this through three program pillars – advocacy, restoration, and education. FOR is seeking a part time, (20-29 hours/week) Education Assistant to support our robust environmental education program. This will include classroom and outdoor education, including on-water programs and physical restoration work, as necessary. This position is located in our Culpeper, VA office and has the potential to grow into a full time position.
Reports To: Upper Rappahannock Education Manager
Duties
- Primarily supports our Meaningful Watershed Educational Experience (MWEE) program in the upper Rappahannock region by providing in class visits to schools, leading outdoor field experiences and supporting student action projects.
- Support purchasing of materials for grant programming.
- Support teacher professional development workshops.
- Co-lead our week-long, half-day summer camp programs for students 1st-5th.
- Lead and support environment and outdoor education public programs in partnership with Parks and Recreation, including nature hikes, homeschool and pre-k programs, and paddles.
- Occasionally support restoration work, including maintenance and upkeep of nursery plants.
- Assist in developing creative content such as social media posts, fliers, and blog posts as needed.
Minimum Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Env. Education, Env. Science, Biology, Ecology, Natural Resource Management or related degree, OR relevant training AND/OR coursework
- Google suite/Microsoft Word/Excel proficient
- Strong working knowledge of watersheds and human impacts on watersheds
- Enthusiasm for working in an inclusive environment which serves children of all backgrounds and abilities
- Daily local travel necessary with some early mornings, late afternoons and occasional weekends and evenings
- Able to lift 25-50lbs
- Extremely organized, adaptable, and personable
- Comfortable being outdoors in all weather
- Able to pass a background check
- Valid driver’s license required
Preferred Candidate Experiences
- Certification in Environmental Education, MWEE 101 & 102, OR Certified Interpretive Guide
- Minimum 1 years experience leading outdoor environmental education programs
- Experience leading Meaningful Watershed Educational Experiences
- Classroom or group management skills indoor and outdoor
- Ability to drive company vehicles
- Comfortable using basic tools, such as shovels and drills
- Comfortable in canoes and/or kayaks
- Proficient in English and Spanish
This is a part-time, hourly position. Pay rate is $16-19/hour commensurate with experience. Anticipated start date is May, 2023.
Willing to train the right candidate. Please send a cover letter and resume to our Upper Rappahannock Education Manager [email protected].
