Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Environmental Education Center

Environmental Education Specialist

Program Description: Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, the first urban National Wildlife Refuge established in the United States, is dedicated to preserving and enhancing wildlife habitat, protecting migratory birds, protecting threatened and endangered species, and providing opportunities for wildlife-oriented recreation and nature study for the surrounding communities. As of 2004, the Refuge spans 30,000 acres of open bay, salt pond, salt marsh, mudflat, upland and vernal pool habitats located throughout south San Francisco Bay. Located along the Pacific Flyway, the Refuge hosts over 280 species of birds each year. Millions of shorebirds and waterfowl stop to refuel at the Refuge during the spring and fall migration. In addition to its seasonal visitors, the Refuge provides critical habitat to resident species like the endangered California clapper rail and salt marsh harvest mouse. Today, hundreds of thousands of people visit the Refuge each year to enjoy its diverse wildlife and habitats,

Program Type: Non-Residential
Job Description: The successful applicant will be an employee of the San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society, working under the supervision of the staff at the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Environmental Education Center (EEC) in the Alviso District of San Jose, California. The employee's main duties include: developing, conducting, and evaluating environmental education activities and programs, especially those addressing personal water use; and staffing the EEC one weekend day and four days during the week. Specific responsibilities include: coordinating and conducting field trips and classroom presentations for Elementary, Middle, and High School students; conducting teacher workshops; writing curriculum; presenting interpretive programs for diverse audiences; conducting tours at both the EEC and San Jose/Santa Clara Water Pollution Control Plant; conducting visitor surveys and writing reports. Working evenings and local travel will be required on an occasional basis
Job Duration: Year Round
Job Status: Full-Time, Temporary

Qualifications: Work Environment and Physical Demands Approximately 15% of the job is performed outdoors; most of the remaining time is spent in an office setting. Hiking/walking is required while leading tours and conducting programs. Lifting heavy objects (approximately 50 to 60 lbs), such as boxes and tables, is required.
Applicants must possess substantial knowledge of environmental education principles and techniques, including student evaluation techniques; basic management skills including leadership, creative problem solving and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team; a Bachelor’s degree, or higher, in environmental education, environmental studies, physical or natural science, or equivalent; a solid understanding of the general principles of ecology; the ability to effectively organize and monitor a series of concurrent activities; the ability to communicate clearly and concisely orally and in writing; a valid California driver’s license, and a car (must have a car to drive to local schools as needed, you will receive reimbursement for mileage at the current government mileage reimbursement rate).

Knowledge Desired: It is desirable for the applicant to possess knowledge of salt marsh ecology, and San Francisco Bay natural history, flora, and fauna; the ability to read, write, and speak Spanish; a teaching credential and/or practical experience in education, or education-related field.

To apply: Send a letter of interest, resume, and college transcript(s) (unofficial) to:
Genie Moore, EEC Director
Don Edwards San Francisco Bay NWR
P.O. Box 411
Alviso, CA 95002

Salary: $40,000 - $41,000/year (depending on experience)
Benefits: Medical, Retirement, Vacation, Training
Housing & Meals: Not Provided
Deadline for Application: open until filled
Start Date / Job Period: January 30, 2008 - June 30, 2008 (start date to be determined-also possibility to extend 1 year)

Contact: Genie Moore
Address: PO Box 411 Alviso,CA, 95002
Phone: 408-262-5513
Fax: 408-262-2867
e-mail:
Website: http://www.fws.gov/desfbay/