Rocky Point Bird Observatory (RPBO) – www.rpbo.org – is based in Victoria B.C. and is the only Pacific coastal station in the Canadian Migration Monitoring Network. RPBO is a unique and important contributor to bird conservation; regionally, nationally and internationally.
We influence and inform ecological management practices and the conservation of migratory birds in western North America through monitoring, scientific research, and public education.
Education and Outreach is vital to building awareness of, and enthusiasm for, our work and we are seeking a new Lead Educator (LE) to deliver existing, and develop new, programs as part of our ambitious plans.
The initial focus is on promoting and implementing the existing school programs and related youth education events. The LE will be responsible for reaching out to schools, student groups, scheduling events and working with RPBO’s site manager to arrange physical on-site setup, recruiting, supervising volunteer educators, and acting as the primary instructor.
The LE will also develop a new youth program and – importantly – work to accelerate the development of adult education programs, which are crucial to broadening RPBO’s appeal.
Reporting to the Board of Directors (through the Director of Education & Outreach), the LE will also collaborate with development and marketing functions to develop a compelling message that also underscores the connection between RPBO’s work and broader environmental issues.
The Lead Educator position will be a part-time, contract-based position (averaging approximately 1.5 days per week). Contract extensions are subject to satisfactory performance and funding being available. Development of a stable funding system could eventually lead to additional hours and/or a more permanent position.
Qualifications
- A minimum of 2 years’ experience in teaching, or a minimum of 2 years’ experience in interpretation programs from parks or other nature education centres
- A minimum of 1 year in a supervisory or management role
- Strong computer skills on word-processing, graphics, and database programs
- Demonstrated experience with various social media platforms
- Experience working with and managing volunteers
- Ability to identify birds in this region by sight and sound
- Able to provide a recent clear Criminal Record check following an offer of employment
- Valid class 5 driver’s license and access to a vehicle
Knowledge Skills and Abilities
- Effective and clear oral and written communications skills in English are essential
- Demonstrated effective public relations and interpersonal skills, with a passionate enthusiasm for nature education
- Attention to detail in record keeping and entering data
- Ability and skill to work well with pre-schoolers, elementary age children and youth
- Ability and skill to work well with adults, including seniors
- Demonstrated success in providing age-appropriate learning material – face to face, in hard copy and on virtual platforms
- Willingness and physical ability to work outdoors, including in inclement weather and in variable terrain
- Flexibility and creativity in approach to work
- Self-motivated and able to work both independently and within a team environment
- Demonstrated leadership qualities such as integrity, accountability, and empathy
Considered an Asset
- BSc in Natural Sciences or Bachelor’s in Education, or BA in performing arts or equivalent
- Being bilingual in both official languages
- Being fluent in other languages
- Current First Aid certification
- Knowledge and experience in grant application processes and follow-up reporting
- Experience as a volunteer or staff member in a bird banding project or operation (such as extracting birds from mist nets, ageing and sexing, banding, and measuring)
- Understanding of avian ecology
- Experience organizing events
If this contract position matches your skill set and interests, please forward your completed application package by email before October 31, 2021, to education@rpbo.org and include:
- “Lead Educator Position” in the subject line
- Cover letter
- Resume
- Date of availability
- Expected hourly rate of pay
- References