Program Assistant (School Programming)

Position Description

The School Program Assistant promotes outdoor learning and a connection to nature by engaging students and teachers through school field trips, classroom visits, and resources utilizing outdoor education curriculum.

Duties/Responsibilities

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
To perform this job successfully, an individual must perform essential duties to the expected performance standards. Reasonable modifications or accommodations are made as required for persons with disabilities as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act:

• Work with School Program staff and volunteers to coordinate and deliver field trips and classroom experiences for school groups. tours and spontaneous interpretation
• Assist with School Program volunteer training, scheduling and check-ins for specific work shifts
• Help plan, organize, and execute programs and events, including logistics, on-site support, and program evaluation.
• Assist with the Education Kit loan program, school program equipment, including content inventory and preparing kits for borrowers.
• Assist with teacher workshops, trainings, and programs that promote nature-based learning and environmental education.
• Assist teachers, community leaders, and program staff with the Green Schoolyards program including phases of starting habitat or vegetable gardens at their site.
• Communicates with stakeholders, including participants and partners, to provide information and updates about programs and MetroParks facilities.
• Presents programs by handling wildlife ambassadors including live birds, turtles, and snakes. Supports wildlife ambassador animal care.
• Host outreach booths at events and festivals to promote outdoor education and school resources including interpreting wildlife pelts and other nature specimens for a wide audience.
• Provide support to other Outdoor Education Department programs and initiatives when needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. A combination of appropriate education, training, course work and experience may qualify an applicant to demonstrate required knowledge, skills, and abilities. An example of an acceptable qualification is:

• A high school diploma or GED is required.
• A Valid Driver's License that meets Five Rivers MetroParks' insurance carrier requirements is required.?
• Two years of post-secondary education in the program area of focus is preferred.
• Must be willing and able to safely handle deceased feeder animals (including mice) as part of routine animal husbandry responsibilities, including preparing and providing food for raptors, snakes, and other Animal Ambassadors.
• An ability to work an irregular schedule, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and some holidays, is required.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

Valid Ohio driver's license meets Five Rivers MetroParks' insurance carrier guidelines.

National Association for Interpretation Interpretive Host or Interpretive Guide Certification preferred but not required.

Additional Information

Candidates must successfully complete a background check and drug screening test prior to employment.

Five Rivers MetroParks is an EEO/AA employer that values diversity in the workplace