Position Summary
The Fellowship provides an experiential learning opportunity for a recent graduate interested in a career in environmental education.
The Fellow is responsible for assisting the Outdoor U team in the direction and coordination of the environmental education programming for preK-12 students, College of Saint Benedict (CSB) and Saint John’s University (SJU) students, and the general public. This position will assist in teaching the environmental education curriculum and assist in developing new programming and curriculum. Other aspects of the position include training and teaching other Outdoor U student staff and volunteers, teaching public programs, outreach to the CSB/SJU community, adventure programming, land stewardship, and equipment maintenance.
The position features advanced development of environmental interpretation skills, teaching techniques, and natural history knowledge through hands-on training and through participation in seminars, workshops, and continuing education. The Fellow will work as part of a team consisting of five full time staff members plus numerous college students committed to providing environmental education and outdoor recreation opportunities to diverse audiences. Opportunities for collaboration with CSB/SJU professors and as well as professionals working in multiple fields will also be provided.
Outdoor U provides environmental education through classes, events and initiatives with the Abbey Arboretum and CSB/SJU. The Abbey Arboretum is a 2,944 acre natural arboretum made up of forest, prairie, wetlands and oak savanna owned by Saint John's Abbey and surrounding Saint John's University. The collaboration between Saint John’s Outdoor U Saint John’s Abbey Arboretum creates a dynamic commitment to land stewardship, environmental respect, and education of all ages, abilities, backgrounds, and experience levels.
Responsibilities
- Participate in the fellowship aspect of the position, including goal setting, evaluations, training, and networking opportunities.
- Instruct environmental education curriculum to visiting students, including school year programming and summer day camps.
- Participate in the instruction of CSB/SJU students through established connections with academic departments.
- Offer informational, seasonal programming on topics of local natural history for Outdoor U members and interested community members.
- Assist Environmental Education Coordinator with expanding existing curriculum and developing new programming.
- Maintain the equipment, and supplies for educational, scientific, and environmental activities. Participate in land stewardship activities.
- Provide direction to student employees and volunteers assisting with the education programs.
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Arts or Sciences degree completion by May 2022, with preferred major in a related field (e.g. environmental studies, education, natural sciences).
- Demonstrated enthusiasm and ability to teach environmental education to diverse audiences on a daily basis.
- Experience teaching younger students (preK-5th grade).
- Ability to work with culturally and economically diverse audiences.
- Commitment to increase skills and knowledge of environmental education through workshops, seminars, classes, and on-the-job training as provided during the Fellowship.
- Working knowledge of or willingness to learn regional flora, fauna, and ecosystems.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Interpersonal relations skills to build collaborative relationships and work effectively as part of the Outdoor U team in providing a high level of customer service.
- Ability to work independently.
- Strong computer skills with ability to utilize multiple programs and applications.
- Ability to meet the physical requirements of the position, including: working indoors and outdoors in variable weather conditions and on variable terrain, walking for extended distances and lifting/moving equipment up to 40 lbs.
- Ability to drive a college vehicle which requires possession of a valid driver’s license and completion of college defensive driving program.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including occasional nights and weekends.
APPOINTMENT:
This is a full-time, benefit eligible appointment commencing on May 31, 2022 (negotiable) through June 2, 2023 (negotiable). Compensation package includes $14.00/hr plus full benefits and a $5400 living stipend. Low cost housing available on the SJU campus for single and married persons. Time will be managed to 40 hours per week and will require a flexible schedule. This position reports to the Environmental Education Coordinator for preK12 Education. A pre-employment background check is required and the offer of employment will be contingent upon a successful background check.