CLEER Environmental Educator

Position Summary
The Environmental Educator serves as a key member of the Center for Lake Erie Education and Research ( CLEER ) team inspiring environmental stewardship through engaging place-based education focused on Lake Erie and the Great Lakes watershed. The Environmental Educator develops and delivers innovative educational programming that connects learners of all ages with freshwater ecosystems environmental challenges and scientific discovery through hands-on experiences field investigations and community-engaged learning. Working collaboratively with educators scientists community organizations and regional partners the Environmental Educator translates current freshwater research into meaningful educational experiences that increase environmental literacy promote scientific inquiry and empower individuals to become informed stewards of Lake Erie. The Environmental Educator reports to the Director of Project NePTWNE and plays an integral role in advancing CLEERs mission to Create a Community of Lake Erie Stewards through Education and Engagement. Essential Responsibilities Environmental Education & Program Delivery Design implement and evaluate high-quality environmental education programs centered on Lake Erie freshwater ecosystems watershed science biodiversity water quality climate resilience and sustainability for diverse audiences. Deliver engaging educational experiences for PreK12 students teachers community groups and lifelong learners. Lead hands-on laboratory investigations outdoor field experiences citizen science activities and community workshops. Develop inquiry-based learning experiences that encourage critical thinking scientific investigation and problem solving. Facilitate programs both at CLEER and throughout the region at schools parks nature centers and community events. Curriculum Development Maintain and update existing educational resources using current scientific information and best practices. Evaluate program effectiveness using participant feedback and assessment tools. Community Outreach Build relationships with schools educators community organizations and partner agencies. Represent the organization at community events conferences festivals and outreach activities. Assist with volunteer recruitment training and supervision. Promote environmental stewardship through public engagement. Program Coordination Coordinate educational schedules registrations and logistics. Maintain educational equipment supplies and teaching collections. Assist in managing educational spaces and field equipment. Ensure participant safety during indoor and outdoor activities. Outreach and Public Engagement Represent CLEER at regional festivals conferences educational events and community meetings. Deliver presentations promoting freshwater conservation and environmental stewardship. Develop educational materials for newsletters social media exhibits and the CLEER website. Assist in expanding public awareness of CLEERs mission and programming. Program Administration Coordinate program scheduling participant registration logistics and evaluation. Maintain educational laboratories field equipment scientific instruments and teaching collections. Recruit train and supervise volunteers interns and student assistants. Maintain accurate records for grant reporting and program evaluation.

Physical Demands
The position requires: Frequent outdoor work in varying weather conditions. Ability to stand hike and conduct field activities for extended periods. Ability to lift and transport educational equipment weighing up to 40 pounds. Occasional evening and weekend programming. Travel throughout the Lake Erie watershed.

Required Qualifications
Bachelors degree in Environmental Science Environmental Education Biology Ecology Natural Resources Education Marine Science or a related field. Experience developing and delivering environmental education programs. Strong knowledge of freshwater ecology watershed science or Great Lakes environmental issues. Excellent presentation communication and facilitation skills. Ability to explain scientific concepts to diverse audiences. Excellent organizational and project management skills. Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. Valid drivers license and ability to travel throughout the region.

Preferred Qualifications
Masters degree in Environmental Education Biology Ecology Freshwater Science Education or related field. Two or more years of environmental education experience. Familiarity with Lake Erie ecology and Great Lakes environmental challenges. Experience with citizen science field research or environmental monitoring. Experience developing STEELS -aligned curriculum. Experience managing volunteers or interns. CPR and First Aid certification. Experience with grant-funded educational programming.

Work Schedule
Normal workday hours with occasional evening and/or weekend shifts