OPS Environmental Specialist I

Position Overview And Responsibilities

The Environmental Specialist I (Environmental Educator) is charged with supporting the creation and maintenance of education programs for students, teachers, and public audiences of various ages. This position works directly with the public and with volunteers.

• Serve as support for implementing environmental education programs at the Reserve for K-16 students
• Aid in facilitating onsite student groups, programs at schools, and other public events
• Work with volunteers during education programs
• Support development and delivery of professional development training
• Aid in program/curriculum creation
• Maintain GTMNERR attendance and data-entry database for all programs
• Other tasks and duties as to be determined

Required Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

This position works closely with volunteers and other GTM NERR staff and requires a positive attitude and superb customer service skills with the ability to communicate effectively with staff, volunteers, coworkers and the public in a tactful and courteous manner. Candidates should have excellent verbal and written communication skills and be able to educate and interact with audiences of all ages in one-on-one, small, and large group settings. Knowledge and experience in environmental education, coastal ecology, and education program development and delivery is essential. Must be proficient with desktop computer software including Microsoft Office Excel, Adobe and PowerPoint and can quickly learn web-based programs necessary to develop and deliver education programs. Must be able to utilize problem-solving techniques. Must have classroom management skills (or comparable student group settings). Must be able to work in all types of weather and lift heavy equipment (50 lbs). Must be able to work independently and part of a team.

Minimum Qualifications

• At least four years of verifiable related experience in natural sciences, education, or a related field working with students and public audiences of all ages.
• Post-secondary degrees may be used as an alternative for the required years of experience on a year-for-year basis.
• A credential evaluation report from an approved agency must be submitted along with all foreign degrees.
• A valid Driver’s License is required.

Position Of Special Trust Requirement

This position is designated as a Position of Special Trust in accordance with DEP Directive 422, Positions of Special Trust or Responsibility. Successful completion of background screening will be required for this position.

Our Organization And Mission

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is the state’s lead agency for environmental management and stewardship - protecting our air, water and land. The vision of DEP is to advance Florida’s position as a world leader in protecting natural resources while growing the state’s economy. DEP encourages its leaders to constantly innovate and seek efficiencies. We believe in supporting and encouraging you as you take on important and often complex projects while offering you the opportunity to gain valuable experience quickly.

Where You Will Work

Ponte Vedra Beach –GTMNERR protects over 75,000 acres in St. Johns and Flagler counties on the northeast coast of Florida. It is one of the fastest-growing regions in the state. These protected areas provide habitat for a variety of fish and wildlife. This position is based at the GTMNERR Visitor Center at 505 Guana River Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida 32082.

Benefits Of Working For The State Of Florida

• Participation in state group insurance (must meet eligibility requirements*).
• State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan (tax deferred Retirement Savings Plan, for more information, please visit Corebridge Financial).
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• and more!

Special Notes

• DEP is committed to successfully recruiting and onboarding talented and skilled individuals into its workforce. We recognize the extensive training, experience, and transferable skills that veterans and individuals with disabilities bring to the workforce. Veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to contact our recruiter for guidance and answers to questions through the following email addresses: HR_VeteransPreference@dep.state.fl.us; HR_Recruitment@FloridaDEP.gov
• An individual with a disability is qualified if he or she satisfies the skills, experience, and other job-related requirements for a position and can perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation. Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must contact the DEP Human Resources (HR) Office at (850) 245-2511. Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.
• The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act.