Outreach Educator

Dunes Learning Center is seeking an Outreach Educator to deliver environmental education programs primarily in Lake, Porter, and LaPorte Counties. The role involves program facilitation, preparation, evaluation, and collaboration with partners and teachers. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree, experience in environmental education, and teaching skills. The position requires physical activity and local travel. This is not a remote job as it involves in-person program delivery.
Dunes Learning Center is the nonprofit education partner of Indiana Dunes National Park and the leader of environmental education in the area. We serve a diverse community and seek a diverse workforce. Dunes Learning Center is an equal opportunity provider and does not discriminate.
DAILY OVERVIEWThe Outreach Educator will spend most of their time (75%) delivering programs. The remaining 25% of the time they will bepreparing for programs: organizing and cleaning supplies, completing necessary paperwork, assisting with programdevelopment and evaluation, and learning programs and interpretation methods.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES● Facilitate programs throughout Lake, Porter, and LaPorte Counties in coordination with partners. Programs may beindoors, in the schoolyard, in local parks, or online.● Evaluate and update programs in collaboration with the Outreach team.● Communicate, problem solve and adapt with teachers and partners during their programs.● Assist with the maintenance, inventory, and data entry of all program supplies, equipment, facilities, and granttracking needs.● Attend program staff training and professional development.● Ensure safety and well-being of staff and program participants using sound judgment and applying appropriatedecisions by following all safety protocols.● Comply with all Dunes Learning Center policies and represent DLC in a professional manner at all times.● Maintain a positive mental attitude and serve as a role model for responsible environmental behavior and literacy.● Perform all assigned duties critical to the operation of the Dunes Learning Center.
QUALIFICATIONSTo qualify for the Outreach Educator position, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty. Dunes LearningCenter aims to make reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. AllDunes Learning Center employees must submit to a background check and possible drug screening.
REQUIRED● Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience in similar position● Experience with environmental education and/or interpretation● Teaching experience with children in a formal or informal setting● Excellent organization, communication and interpersonal skills● Proficient in Google applications● Commitment to equity and inclusion● Must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 and provide documentation● A willingness to be coached and to receive feedback● Ability to work well both independently and as a member of a team● Ability to adapt and revise quickly● Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and occasional weekends● Possess a valid driver’s license and a vehicle for reliable transportation for local travel
DESIRABLE● Knowledge of the local ecology of the Calumet Region● Design and drawing skills● Ability to speak Spanish● Current CPR and First Aid Certification
PHYSICAL DEMANDSThe Outreach Educator is required to regularly stand for long periods of time and walk up to 5 miles per day on sandy dune terrain while carrying a 25-lb backpack in all weather conditions. The Outreach Educator must be able to verbally communicate and have visual abilities that allow them to deliver programs safely.
How to apply:
To apply send a cover letter, resume, and 3 references to Erin Crofton, Education Director at employment@duneslearningcenter.org