Reference #: 5182858
THE POSITION
The Department of Conservation & Natural Resources is excited to announce an opening for an Environmental Education Specialist in Luzerne County. This entry-level position offers a unique opportunity to engage in professional work focused on delivering environmental education and interpretation, as well as providing recreational information services and fostering public relations at the scenic Hickory Run State Park Complex. The role involves developing and implementing educational programs that promote awareness and appreciation of the natural environment, making it an ideal fit for individuals passionate about conservation and community engagement. If you are eager to make a positive impact in the field of environmental education, we encourage you to apply today!
DESCRIPTION OF WORK
The scope of work encompasses a diverse range of responsibilities, including the planning and creation of lesson plans, scheduling of activities, and the development, implementation, presentation, and evaluation of environmental education programs, as well as interpretive, recreational, and special events throughout the year. This role requires the preparation and delivery of various audiovisual presentations tailored for different audiences, both in-person and online. Collaboration is key, as the position involves coordinating with various partners such as other parks, agencies, schools, civic organizations, and individuals, often serving as a liaison to facilitate communication between these entities and the park.
Additionally, the role supports schools in executing environmental education initiatives, conducting professional development workshops, and developing curricula. Responsibilities also include the implementation and facilitation of statewide programs focused on environmental education, interpretation, recreation, and public relations. The position entails managing the DCNR Conservation Volunteer program within the Hickory Run State Park Complex, as well as operating and maintaining the visitor center and resource library. Careful attention is given to preserving natural, historical, cultural, and archaeological collections, ensuring they are organized and presented effectively using appropriate cultural techniques. The work also involves drafting correspondence, creating program schedules, writing news articles, and developing marketing materials, all while working outdoors in varying weather conditions.
Furthermore, the role includes assisting with resource management projects and studies, researching and developing educational publications and exhibits, maintaining records and files, and preparing reports. Lastly, the position requires the coordination and maintenance of environmental learning field equipment, overseeing its use, and making recommendations for repairs, servicing, replacements, and new purchases.
The employee in this role is responsible for a range of tasks related to the development, coordination, and execution of environmental education, interpretive programs, recreational activities, and public relations initiatives at Hickory Run, Lehigh Gorge, and Nescopeck State Parks.
Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.
Work Schedule and Additional Information:
Full-time employment
Shift hours and days vary due to operational needs, with a 30-minute lunch
Weekends, holidays, and all shifts as needed at 37.5 hours per week
Overtime and travel as operationally necessary
Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.
You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY
QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:
A bachelor's degree in environmental education, education, the natural sciences, social sciences, or parks and recreation; or
An equivalent combination of experience and training.
Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within 3 months of graduating with a qualifying degree.
Conditions of Employment:
You must be willing to work weekends and evenings.
You must be willing to wear a prescribed uniform.
Other Requirements:
This particular position also requires you to possess a valid driver's license which is not under suspension.
You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency.
You must be able to perform essential job functions.
Legal Requirements:
You must pass a background investigation.
This position falls under the provisions of the Child Protective Services Law.
Under the Law, a conditional offer of employment will require submission and approval of satisfactory criminal history reports including, but not limited to, PA State Police clearance, PA Child Abuse history clearance, and FBI Fingerprint clearance.
In accordance with Act 153 of 2014, this position is required to complete Child Abuse, Criminal and Federal Criminal History Checks around the time of hire and thereafter every 5 years.
How to Apply:
Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.
Veterans:
Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. *7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.
Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):
711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).
If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.
EXAMINATION INFORMATION
Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam).
Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions.
Your score is valid for this specific posting only.
You must provide complete and accurate information or:
your score may be lower than deserved.
you may be disqualified.
You may only apply/test once for this posting.
Your results will be provided via email.
The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens o
