Open Space Education Coordinator

About the Role

Coordinate, monitor, and manage science education programs and volunteers of the Open Space Division within the Parks and Recreation Department. Participate in the development and implementation of science educational goals, objectives, policies, and priorities, and perform a variety of administrative tasks in support of the assigned area of responsibility.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate, monitor, and manage science education programs and volunteers of the Open Space Division.
• Participate in the development and implementation of science educational goals, objectives, policies, and priorities; recommend and implement resulting policies and procedures.
• Establish direction of environmental education and citizen science initiatives to address awareness, appreciation, and stewardship of the Major Public Open Space.
• Develop, promote, and implement year-round age-appropriate curricula and activities to meet community needs; participate in and support education events; promote and implement Open Space Division programs to underserved communities; develop and create hands-on displays and activities.
• Integrate Science, Technology, Education, Art, and Math (STEAM) and New Mexico Generations Science Standards into Open Space Division programs offered to students.
• Design and implement evaluation tools to assess and improve Open Space Division public programs.
• Oversee and coordinate volunteer activities as part of education initiatives; recruit, train, manage, and evaluate volunteers.
• Assist with the development of interpretive signage and related material to promote and educate on Open Space properties.
• May participate in the development and administration of assigned budget.
• Maintain records and develop reports concerning new or ongoing programs and program effectiveness; oversee the maintenance of records for volunteer hours worked, youth served, and statistical reports as required.
• Coordinate general administrative functions for the Open Space Division.
• Stay abreast of new trends and innovations in the field of Parks and Open Space science education.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in biology or education.
• Three (3) years of informal teaching or educational program/volunteer coordination experience in any of the following environmental facilities: nature center, natural resource agencies, science-based school or program, including one (1) year of supervisory or lead experience.
• Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver's License, or the ability to obtain by date of hire.
• Possession of a City Operator's Permit (COP) within 6 months from date of hire.

Schedule

May work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.

Working Conditions

• Office environment with field environment.
• Essential and supplemental functions may require maintaining physical conditions necessary for sitting, walking, hiking, or standing for prolonged periods of time with prolonged exposure to sunlight.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds.