WSU Mason County Extension is looking for an energetic and
capable person to assist with Stormwater Education and Action
programs/projects.

WSU Mason County Extension is seeking to hire an individual with a
horticultural background to assist with stormwater related educational
programs. The Water Resource Program Assistant is a half-time position
located with WSU Mason County Extension in Shelton, WA. The position is
responsible to assist with the organization, marketing, implementation, and
evaluation of educational programs focusing on stormwater management and
low-impact development strategies. Duties will also include leading
volunteers in the installation of rain gardens and native plant landscaping.
Some evening and weekend hours will be necessary.

Screening of candidates begins August 29th.

Position Description: The Water Resource Program Assistant is a 0.50 FTE, temporary position located with WSU Mason County Extension in Shelton, WA.  The position is responsible to assist with the organization, marketing, implementation, and evaluation of water-resource-related educational programs focusing on stormwater management and low-impact development strategies.  Some evening and weekend hours will be necessary.

Responsibilities:

Provide support for water-resource-related educational programs.  Tasks will include:

  • (10%) –Recruit volunteers

– Identify new and underserved audiences

– Develop brochures

– Write press releases

– Utilize a wide range of marketing strategies

  • (70%) Provide logistical support:

–         Compiling appropriate educational materials

–         Photocopying, note-taking, data input

–         Contact presenters and facilities for volunteer training

–         Assist in the procurement of equipment, supplies and materials for volunteer training and installation of rain gardens and native plant landscaping

–         Assist in the planning and installation of rain gardens and native plant landscaping

  •  (10%) Program Evaluation

–         Short and long term (to also include grant-related reporting)

  • (10%) Attend community events to help promote and communicate about water resources programs and provide occasional environmental education activities to youth and adult audiences

 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Strong computer skills, including MS Office (Outlook, Publisher, Excel, Word and Power Point), Adobe Acrobat, and a willingness to learn web-page development
  • Skills in organizing and expressing ideas in oral and written communication.
  • Skills in carrying out clearly defined procedures; evaluating and modifying if necessary
  • Demonstrated interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills.
  • Skill in planning, developing, and implementing events and special projects.
  • Ability to analyze complex issues, conduct thorough and appropriate fact finding inquiries, reason logically, and articulate sound solutions.
  • Demonstrated ability to effectively operate standard office equipment including computers, phone and electronic messaging.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective and cooperative working relationships within the Extension office, county government, the university, outside agencies and organizations.
  • Ability to effectively handle multiple, complex issues or projects simultaneously.
  • Ability to initiate contact with a variety of professionals, including real estate professionals, government employees, university employees, scientists and business people.
  • Ability to work independently to accomplish established goals.
  • Knowledge of regional water quality issues.

 

Required Qualifications:

  • An associates degree in environmental field or closely related field
  • Two years of experience in related field
  • Any combination of relevant education and experience may be substituted for the educational requirement on a year-for-year basis.

 

Desired Qualifications:

  • Experience in horticulture
  • Marketing skills, including using online media sources
  • Knowledge of plant materials and their installation
  • Knowledge of low-impact development strategies
  • Skills in planting and plant maintenance
  • Demonstrated ability to use computer, including E-mail and the internet
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Ability to consistently interact with the public, co-workers, and colleagues in a professional and courteous manner
  • Strong word processing skills
  • Ability to work independently to accomplish goals set out
  • Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing
  • Knowledge of water quality issues in the region
  • Ability to work as a team member to achieve desired program results
  • Ability to work collaboratively in developing and conducting educational programs
  • Knowledge & experience with simple drafting or landscape design drawing

 Mental Requirements

  • Ability to reason logically.
  • Ability to exercise creativity.
  • Ability to interact professionally and courteously with the public.
  • Ability to interact well with office staff and colleagues.
  • Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to interpret and apply technical knowledge.
  • Ability to use mental skills to recall, analyze, and organize information to make decisions.
  • Must be self-motivated and able to work independently.
  • Must be able to travel overnight occasionally.
  • Must be able to work irregular hours occasionally.
  • Must be able to work outdoors.
  • Must be able to do physical work for extended periods of time.
  • Working on a computer and telephone for extended periods of time in an office setting will be required.
  • Must be able to work effectively utilizing shared office space.

Work Conditions

 

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to lift and carry 60 lbs., use wheelbarrows, shovels, pickaxes and other landscaping equipment.
  • Ability to operate a computer.
  • Ability to operate a telephone.
  • Ability to physically arrange furniture for meetings.
  • Ability to travel around the county year-round. While using a private vehicle for official business, the successful candidate must have current automobile liability insurance (meeting the requirements described in RCW 46.30.020 and RCW 46.29.090) and will possess a valid driver’s license.

 

Accountability

The position will work with and report to the Water Resources Faculty and Director of WSU Mason County Extension, Bob Simmons, as well as Water Resources Associates, Erica Guttman and Emily Sanford.

 

 

To Apply: 

 

Electronically submit to Bob Simmons at simmons@wsu.edu:

  • A letter of interest outlining how your education, experience, and interests relate to the position
  • A current resumé
  • Three references

 

Screening for the position will begin August 29th

 

Extension programs and policies are consistent with federal and state laws and regulations on nondiscrimination regarding race, sex, religion, age, color, creed, national or ethnic origin; physical, mental or sensory disability; marital status, sexual orientation, and status as a Vietnam-era or disabled veteran. Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.