Education & Outreach Specialist
AmeriCorps Member
Location: University of Washington Botanic Gardens, Washington Park Arboretum – Seattle, WA
The University of Washington (UW) is proud to be one of the nation’s premier educational and research
institutions. Our people are the most important asset in our pursuit of achieving excellence in education,
research, and community service. Our staff not only enjoys outstanding benefits and professional
growth opportunities, but also an environment noted for diversity, community involvement, intellectual
excitement, artistic pursuits, and natural beauty.
The University of Washington Botanic Gardens (UWBG) is a leading center of botanical research,
education, and outreach. With more than 320 acres of gardens and natural areas in the heart of Seattle,
the UW Botanic Gardens is home to internationally significant plant collections, award‐winning
restoration ecology and conservation programs, and popular public programs serving youth, adults, and
professionals. UWBG has two sites: the Washington Park Arboretum and the Center for Urban
Horticulture.
General Duties/Description: Serve as a member of the UW Botanic Gardens youth and family education
team. Assist with development and facilitation of a wide range of interpretive programs for the UW
Botanic Gardens at the Washington Park Arboretum and the Center for Urban Horticulture. Deliver
programming that enriches participant’s connections to plants and the natural world. Particular
emphasis will be placed on development of a high school summer internship program and providing
opportunities for traditionally under‐represented young people across the Greater Seattle area to
engage with the natural world, gain environmental knowledge, and develop environmental leadership
skills.
Must be willing to work outdoors in all types of weather. This is a full‐time (40 hours/week) Individual
Placement AmeriCorps Member position, serving a 6 month term of service through the Washington
Service Corps. Term of service runs February 16, 2018 – August 15, 2018.
Essential Tasks:
Expand current K‐6 environmental education programming to reach low income schools and
families across King County with hands‐on environmental education programming
Develop, promote and lead a high school internship program focused on environmental
education and leadership for the summer of 2018. This program will target teens from schools
and districts with 70% or more youth of color and will provide teens with opportunities to gain
leadership skills, learn about the local environment and explore higher education and
environmental career opportunities. This program will work closely with our summer camp
programs for Preschool‐6th grade students.
Recruit and advertise fieldtrip and internship programs to low‐income and traditionally
underserved students in the greater Seattle area
Teach environmental education programs to preschool through 8th grade students including
school field trips, family nature classes, summer camp, public weekend walks, and night hikes,
and preschool programs.
Assist with curriculum development and the training of volunteers.
Conduct interpretive programs outdoors and in all kinds of weather.
Ensure safety and well‐being of program participants.
Organize and maintain program supplies and equipment.
Participate fully in staff meetings and professional development opportunities.
Perform a variety of clerical tasks that directly support the AmeriCorps project such as filing,
copying, and mailing services.
Requirements:
High school graduation or equivalent AND two years of experience leading outdoor education programs
for and with diverse populations. Excellent organizational skills, excellent oral/written communication
skills and ability to work outdoors in all types of weather. Previous experience teaching and/or working
with children. Education, skills and/or prior experience with environmental education,
teaching/tutoring, public speaking, and youth development. Position will require knowledge of and use
of computers/technology, leadership development, program recruitment, and community organization.
Must pass a criminal background check. Passion for equity and inclusion in environment and education.
Desirable:
Bachelor’s Degree or formal training in environmental education, leadership, botany, horticulture,
biology, or related areas. Experience working with high school students as well as K‐6th grade students in
classroom, outdoor education, or camp settings. A knowledge of environmental activities, lessons,
games, projects and stories to bring to the position. Computer proficiency with variety of software
programs such as Microsoft Office, desktop publishing, and electronic communications. Experience
facilitating and designing leadership development and team building opportunities.
Compensation:
Monthly living stipend of $1,202.86 (before taxes). $2,907.50 Education Award upon successful
completion of 6 month term of service and 900 hours. Health insurance. Subsidized childcare. Student
loan forbearance on qualifying loans.
Application:
Please email a cover letter and resume to Youth and Family Programs Supervisor, Alicia Blood, at
alblood@uw.edu by Monday January 8, 2018.
Department Contact for Questions regarding this position:
Alicia Blood; 206‐616‐3381; alblood@uw.edu