Education & Ecological Assistant

Job Description

Position Title: Education and Ecological Assistant

Start Date: Monday, April 22nd 2024

Reports To: Education and Ecological Coordinator

Summary of the Position:

The Education and Ecological Assistant reports directly to the Education and Ecological Coordinator and is responsible for assisting with all aspects of natural heritage, conservation, and education on the site. Primary duties include assisting with planning and delivery of educational programming and executing in-field stewardship activities (surveys and plantings). Other duties include assisting with visitor services; supporting administrative duties and performing other duties where needed. See Appendix A: Responsibilities.

Qualifications:

• Relevant experience or diploma in geography, conservation biology, environmental sciences or related field with experience in education.
• Evidence of educational programming with groups of all ages.
• Proficient computer skills including but not limited to Microsoft Word, Excel, email, and PowerPoint.
• Proficiency with GIS/GPS is an asset.
• Ability to obtain CPR/First Aid Certification.
• Possession of or ability to obtain Police Vulnerable Sector Check for work with children and youth of all ages.
• Possession of valid Ontario Driver’s Licence and have their own vehicle.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Exemplary interpersonal and communication skills.
• Knowledge of resource inventory, biodiversity.
• Knowledge of interpretive skills is an asset.
• Knowledge of Ontario/Carolinian wildlife (demonstrated).
• Proficient with GIS and GPS technology.
• Ability to work alone in remote locations in potentially unpleasant climatic conditions.
• Highly developed time management skills.
• Detail oriented.
• Good organizational skills.
• Analytical, observant.
• Ability to work independently in a sometimes-high pressure environment (i.e. when running programs and events by yourself).
• Competent working with a team during events with staff, volunteers, summer student.

Physical Demands:

• Must have a reasonable level of physical fitness. Has the ability to lift supplies, move furniture, and stand for long periods of time. Ability to hike over uneven terrain and work alone in remote locations on the property.
• Natural: unpredictable weather conditions, insects (ticks, mosquitoes), poisonous plants (poison ivy, water hemlock, wild parsnip).
• Moderate to medium. Good stamina which requires physical activity: walking on uneven terrain, lifting, bending, climbing, standing, hiking, kneeling.
• Physically able to get around a 1500-acre site. Spend long hours sitting at a computer.
• Installing/uninstalling exhibits.

Appendix A: Responsibilities

• Assist with identification of specific conservation priorities for protection of Ruthven’s natural areas including removal of invasive species.
• Deliver high-quality curriculum based educational programs for school classes, community groups, diverse audiences and multi-generations.
• Assist with organizing and delivery of conservation awareness events.
• Educate visitors about environmental issues, environmental protection through exhibits, outreach, workshops, interpretation or writing articles.
• Plan and conduct natural resource surveys; report findings to supervisor.
• Plan and prepare for field research by obtaining proper equipment, ensure that it is maintained and stored properly.
• As directed, conduct regular inspections of Ruthven’s natural areas, farmlands, trails and tree inventory and report findings to Education and Ecological Coordinator.
• Assist with review, updating and writing of natural heritage policies (i.e. Hazard Tree Policy) where needed.
• Act as in-field leader for summer students, youth organizations and volunteers involved in natural areas initiatives.
• Monitor condition of trails within the Park and report issues to supervisor
• As directed, monitor invasive species and remove as necessary.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and procedures.
• Keep informed of environmental issues, trends and changes to legislation locally, provincially and nationally.
• Conduct assigned in-field stewardship activities (data collection, species surveys, plantings, etc.) determined by Coordinator.
• Assist with grant writing and field work/research for assistance in funding securement as needed.
• Utilize habitat surveying techniques (GIS, aerial photography records and maps)
• Act as spokesperson and answer visitor inquiries regarding education programs, workshops, and lectures.
• Contribute to the leadership and overall image of Ruthven Park by actively participating in discussions and making suggestions while supporting the organization's decision-making process.
• Establish and maintain positive relationships with staff and volunteers.
• Assist with special projects assigned by the Site Administrator.
• Assist with special events and deliver educational components and children’s activities when needed.
• Other duties as assigned by either Education and Ecological Coordinator or Site Administrator.

About Ruthven Park:

Ruthven Park is a not-for-profit, charitable organization and a National Historic Site with a focus on heritage preservation and presentation, tourism, education and the environment. We are situated in a rural location without public transportation.

Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 24 months

Salary: $48,000.00-$50,700.00 per year

Benefits:

• On-site parking
• Store discount

Flexible Language Requirement:

• French not required

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 2024-03-29
Expected start date: 2024-04-22