Environmental Education & Outreach Specialist

The University of Iowa is hiring an Environmental Education & Outreach Specialist for a 12-month AmeriCorps position at Iowa Lakeside Laboratory in Milford, IA. The role involves developing and delivering environmental education programs for diverse audiences, fostering environmental literacy, and engaging in community outreach. Responsibilities include program implementation, curriculum development, and collaboration with local partners. Housing and some meals are provided, making it a meaningful service opportunity.
About the position

Iowa Lakeside Laboratory is seeking an enthusiastic Environmental Education & Outreach AmeriCorps member to join our team for a 12-month service term. This position is based on the picturesque shores of West Lake Okoboji in Milford, Iowa, where the member will have the unique opportunity to develop and deliver environmental education programs to diverse audiences, including children, families, and adults. The primary focus of this role is to enhance environmental literacy within the community through engaging educational experiences. The member will collaborate closely with Lakeside staff, local educators, and partner organizations to create impactful programs that foster a love for nature and stewardship of the environment. The Environmental Education & Outreach AmeriCorps member will be responsible for implementing a variety of educational initiatives, including summer camps, field trips, family programs, and outreach events. This role requires a passion for the outdoors and a commitment to connecting individuals of all ages with nature. The member will also have the chance to develop their communication, lesson planning, and teaching skills while gaining exposure to potential career paths in environmental education and related fields. Housing and some meals will be provided, making this an excellent opportunity for those looking to immerse themselves in a meaningful service experience. In addition to program delivery, the member will engage in community outreach, develop educational materials, and participate in service-learning events. This position is designed for individuals who are eager to learn, grow, and make a positive impact in their community through environmental education.

Responsibilities
• Develop and deliver environmental education programs for 800+ learners of all ages, including science/nature camps for PreK - 10th grade, field trips, family and adult programs, volunteer programs, and other outreach events.
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• Advance the Leader-in-Training program for high school-aged students.
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• Work with local partners to continue providing a Wildlife Habitat Education Program (WHEP) in Dickinson County.
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• Develop hands-on PreK-12 grade science curriculum to be used during field trips and other program events.
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• Create connections with individuals, volunteers, and organizations in the community for program and outreach enhancement.
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• Foster an appreciation and sense of stewardship for the environment in others.
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• Produce educational materials such as posters, handouts, games, and other educational supplies.
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• Incorporate and implement service-learning events for youth participants or other outreach on MLK Day of Service, Global Youth Service Day, and one other National Day of Service selected by the member.

Requirements
• Must have or will obtain a diploma/GED.
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• Must be 17 years or older at the start of service (no upper age limit).
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• Must pass a national service criminal history check prior to the first day of service.
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• Hold one of the following citizenship statuses: US citizen, US national, or Lawful Permanent Resident.

Nice-to-haves
• Passion for outdoor learning experiences and connecting people of all ages to nature.
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• Confidence in public speaking with learners of all ages.
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• Good organizational skills and ability to handle multiple tasks and roles, patiently and professionally.
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• Ability to prepare basic lesson plans and educational materials.
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• Familiarity with best science practices.
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• Willingness to research and learn about the natural history of the area and ability to identify the native plants and animals of the area.
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• General knowledge of outdoor recreation such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and orienteering.
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• Ability to operate computers and audiovisual equipment necessary for program delivery.
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• CPR and First Aid certification, will train if not current.

Benefits
• AmeriCorps living stipend of $1,558 per month.
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• $7,395 AmeriCorps Education Award upon successful completion of term of service.
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• Housing provided, including meals during summer months.
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• Health care, if applicable.
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• Childcare coverage if the member qualifies.
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• Student loan forbearance and interest payments for eligible loans.