Senior Natural Resources Educator
Cornell Cooperative Extension Nassau County, East Meadow, NY, United States
This position will serve as the Senior Natural Resources Educator for Cornell Cooperative Extension Association of Nassau County and under the leadership and oversight of the Natural Resources Team Leader. This position will provide development, evaluation, management, coordination and implementation for Natural Resources programming, resources, and activities related to climate adaptation and a focus on supporting municipal planning efforts. The Senior Natural Resources Educator will serve as a lead professional in the development and delivery of educational and technical assistance programs that support municipalities in planning for climate change adaptation and resilience. This role will focus on applying climate change modeling and scenario planning tools to inform practical, local decision-making and strengthen community preparedness. The Senior Natural Resources Educator will work collaboratively with local governments, regional partners, and cross-disciplinary teams to support the coordination, development, and implementation of Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience Plans (CCARPS). The position will serve as a resource in climate science, coastal ecosystems, clean energy transitions, land conservation, and nature based solutions and green infrastructure.
Key responsibilities include translating community demographic and climate data into accessible, actionable insights; facilitating scenario planning workshops; and supporting municipal leaders in identifying strategies to mitigate risk and enhance community resilience. The Educator will also lead public outreach and training efforts, develop educational materials, and maintain up-to-date knowledge on state and federal climate policies, tools, and resources.
Required Qualifications
Master’s Degree in Environmental Science, Sustainability, or closely related field in Natural Resources.
Experience relevant to the role of the position.
Valid NYS Driver’s License and the ability to meet travel requirements associated with this position.
Ability to work flexible hours which may include evenings and/or weekends, as appropriate.
Ability to work in outdoor conditions.
Four (4) years volunteer or work experience in climate change planning, climate adaptation and resilience, urban and community forestry, water quality, land-use planning, and/or community engagement.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience working on and/or familiarity with the NY-DEC Community Climate Adaptation and Resilience Planning processes.
Experience working directly with Long Island communities.
Experience with GIS software.
Demonstrated ability to utilize program resources within the general community.
Demonstrated ability to plan, teach and evaluate informal educational programs through a variety of delivery methods to reach individuals and groups.
Demonstrated ability to function as a team member working with volunteers and staff.
Demonstrated ability to organize reference materials for programming purposes.
Demonstrated ability to relate to diverse audiences.
Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively through oral, written and visual means.
Demonstrated ability to utilize computer technologies for educational and communication purposes.
Ability to work effectively in a remote office location if needed.
Program Responsibilities
Program Assessment and Development – 30%
Apply Natural Resources subject matter information and knowledge to identify gaps and trends in the community.
Develop and execute community needs assessment.
Analyze Natural Resources Program needs.
Make recommendations for Natural Resources programmatic offerings, enhancements and/or improvements as appropriate.
Maintain direct linkage with Cornell University faculty and staff for the purpose of program assessment guidance.
Ensure Natural Resources Program assessment is within the scope of the statewide Plan of Work and fulfillment of any funding or contractual obligations.
May assist in multi-Association team efforts to assess programs.
Apply Natural Resources subject matter knowledge to develop innovative educational programming and strategies.
Research, identify and select existing resources for program use.
Create program materials to address clients’ needs.
Structure Natural Resources Programs to meet the diverse needs of the community and program participants.
Interpret both Association and University program direction to create educational programs.
Develop Extension/Cornell University faculty connections for guidance with program development.
May be involved in assisting with multi-disciplinary and multi-Association team efforts in developing programs to address priority issues in Natural Resources.
Develop programming to meet changing local issues in the area of Natural Resources.
Use a system of ongoing involvement of citizens in the program development process which expresses the demographics of the community.
Program Delivery, Evaluation and Applied Research – 40%
Occasionally teach existing Natural Resources educational programs as defined.
Evaluate and utilize a wide variety of proven educational methodologies in program delivery efforts.
Apply subject matter expertise to create innovative lesson plans necessary to deliver high-quality educational programming.
Serve as subject matter expert in the area of Natural Resources to staff and participants, community organizations and the general public.
Work to foster acceptance of the Natural Resources Program, methods and policies while addressing community and individual needs and considering diverse audiences.
Implement and facilitate a menu of educational programming, as needed, both virtually and in the community, to include, but not limited to: climate change adaptations and resiliency; urban and community forestry; coastal protection; and land conservation education programs.
Implement and facilitate Natural Resources program activities.
Interact with municipalities and communities in a positive manner, helping them meet their desired goals as a part of program delivery efforts.
Provide educational program efforts via mass media.
Deliver educational programs as a part of multi-association efforts when identified/appropriate.
Represent Cornell Cooperative Extension before the public, community leaders, government officials, Cornell or other Land Grand University faculty and staff as part of program delivery.
Serve as a team member and cooperate with the entire Association and Natural Resources staff to achieve Association program delivery goals.
Apply Natural Resources subject matter knowledge to evaluate educational program offerings.
Design/create program evaluation framework.
Ensure programs meet the requirements of funding and/or contractual requirements.
Make recommendations for programming improvements.
May be involved in multidisciplinary and/or Multi-Association team efforts for the purpose of program evaluation.
Maintain direct linkage with Cornell University faculty and staff for program evaluation guidance.
May have direct linkage with other Land Grant University faculty and staff for program evaluation guidance.
Communicate evaluation results and findings to constituents and program funders.
Collect and/or evaluate field samples related to the Natural Resources program and/or for applied research projects conducted in partnership with Cornell University faculty.
Communicate social and economic changes to Cornell University Specialists that may be studied and/or acted upon.
Ensure applied research is within the scope of the local and statewide Plan of Work.
Assist in conducted applied research in conjunction with Land Grant University Faculty as outlined in Cornell Cooperative Extension program definition and standard.
Assist in the collaboration with Cornell Faculty to design and/or create applied research collection framework.
Administrative Responsibilities
Direction and Management – 20%
Interpret Association and University program direction to plan educational programs in Natural Resources.
Work in cooperation with team members to help establish priorities and objectives for the Natural Resources Program Area.
Plan the delivery of established Natural Resources Program goals.
Assist in the design of a system of ongoing involvement of municipal staff, government officials, and community members which express the demographics of the community.
Plan educational programs and program delivery initiatives in the Natural Resources Program Area.
Plan fund development activities as appropriate.
Assist in planning major public events and programs, including, but not limited to: planning of mass media efforts related to upcoming events and programs.
Provide moderate-complexity administrative management of established educational program goals.
Assist in identifying and recommending program needs (i.e. program supplies and materials) to the Supervisor.
Solve problems and resolve conflicts that arise within the program utilizing appropriate policies and procedures.
Provide support and assist with problem solving when needed in accordance with established practices and procedures, involving the Supervisor and/or Association Executive Director when appropriate.
Manage fund development activities as appropriate.
Provide management (including recruitment and selection) and supervision (including guidance, performance feedback and annual performance reviews) to designated staff in accordance with established policies, procedures and protocol, and provide regular staffing updates to the Supervisor and/or Executive Director as required.
Coordination/Operation – 5%
Organize and coordinate program activities related to climate adaptations and resiliency.
Coordinate program activities that foster a robust participant base, including, but not limited to: recruiting initiatives and events, recognition events, and other programs and program activities as identified.
Provide administrative support for assigned Natural Resources Programs including, but not limited to: preparing correspondence, maintaining files, maintaining participant records, etc. ensuring confidentiality of all information.
Coordinate a menu of educational activities, as needed, virtually and in the community, to include, but not limited to: climate change adaptations and resiliency; coastal protection; and land conservation education programs.
Coordinate effective marketing strategies in the promotion of programming efforts to include, but not limited to: print media, news media, social media, and multi-media efforts.
Collect evaluation data and program needs assessments from program participants based on existing evaluation framework and guidelines.
Effectively maintain professional relationships with other agencies, organizations and businesses that promote effective communication and facilitate continued programming efforts.
This position may require the transport of program participants and/or program materials and resources in performing position responsibilities.
Professional Improvement and Other Duties as Assigned – 5%
In cooperation with Supervisor and/or Executive Director, jointly develop and pursue a professional development plan as a means to increase competencies relative to position accountabilities and to address changes in programming and association priorities.
Collaborate in activities that are in general support of Cornell Cooperative Extension including but not limited to attendance at staff meetings, timely reporting of expenses, working with other staff, general marketing of Extension programs and other duties as assigned.
Health and Safety
Support the association to maintain a safe working environment.
Be familiar and strive to follow any applicable federal, state, local regulations, association health and safety policy/procedure/requirement and standard.
Act proactively to prevent accidents/injuries and communicate hazards to supervisors when identified.
Position Details
This is an exempt, full-time position. The annual salary for this position will range from $85,000-$90,000.
Application Process
Sponsorship for employment visa status is not available for this position.
The Association may make reasonable accommodations to enable applicants to participate in the hiring process and employees to perform the essential functions of their job. If you require an accommodation so that you may participate in the selection process you are encouraged to contact Cornell Cooperative Extension Administrative Systems at (607) 255-6120, or via email at: cce.recruitment@cornell.edu.
If you have a disability and are having trouble accessing information on this website or need materials in an alternate format, contact nassau@cornell.edu for assistance.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Key responsibilities include translating community demographic and climate data into accessible, actionable insights; facilitating scenario planning workshops; and supporting municipal leaders in identifying strategies to mitigate risk and enhance community resilience. The Educator will also lead public outreach and training efforts, develop educational materials, and maintain up-to-date knowledge on state and federal climate policies, tools, and resources.
Required Qualifications
Master’s Degree in Environmental Science, Sustainability, or closely related field in Natural Resources.
Experience relevant to the role of the position.
Valid NYS Driver’s License and the ability to meet travel requirements associated with this position.
Ability to work flexible hours which may include evenings and/or weekends, as appropriate.
Ability to work in outdoor conditions.
Four (4) years volunteer or work experience in climate change planning, climate adaptation and resilience, urban and community forestry, water quality, land-use planning, and/or community engagement.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience working on and/or familiarity with the NY-DEC Community Climate Adaptation and Resilience Planning processes.
Experience working directly with Long Island communities.
Experience with GIS software.
Demonstrated ability to utilize program resources within the general community.
Demonstrated ability to plan, teach and evaluate informal educational programs through a variety of delivery methods to reach individuals and groups.
Demonstrated ability to function as a team member working with volunteers and staff.
Demonstrated ability to organize reference materials for programming purposes.
Demonstrated ability to relate to diverse audiences.
Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively through oral, written and visual means.
Demonstrated ability to utilize computer technologies for educational and communication purposes.
Ability to work effectively in a remote office location if needed.
Program Responsibilities
Program Assessment and Development – 30%
Apply Natural Resources subject matter information and knowledge to identify gaps and trends in the community.
Develop and execute community needs assessment.
Analyze Natural Resources Program needs.
Make recommendations for Natural Resources programmatic offerings, enhancements and/or improvements as appropriate.
Maintain direct linkage with Cornell University faculty and staff for the purpose of program assessment guidance.
Ensure Natural Resources Program assessment is within the scope of the statewide Plan of Work and fulfillment of any funding or contractual obligations.
May assist in multi-Association team efforts to assess programs.
Apply Natural Resources subject matter knowledge to develop innovative educational programming and strategies.
Research, identify and select existing resources for program use.
Create program materials to address clients’ needs.
Structure Natural Resources Programs to meet the diverse needs of the community and program participants.
Interpret both Association and University program direction to create educational programs.
Develop Extension/Cornell University faculty connections for guidance with program development.
May be involved in assisting with multi-disciplinary and multi-Association team efforts in developing programs to address priority issues in Natural Resources.
Develop programming to meet changing local issues in the area of Natural Resources.
Use a system of ongoing involvement of citizens in the program development process which expresses the demographics of the community.
Program Delivery, Evaluation and Applied Research – 40%
Occasionally teach existing Natural Resources educational programs as defined.
Evaluate and utilize a wide variety of proven educational methodologies in program delivery efforts.
Apply subject matter expertise to create innovative lesson plans necessary to deliver high-quality educational programming.
Serve as subject matter expert in the area of Natural Resources to staff and participants, community organizations and the general public.
Work to foster acceptance of the Natural Resources Program, methods and policies while addressing community and individual needs and considering diverse audiences.
Implement and facilitate a menu of educational programming, as needed, both virtually and in the community, to include, but not limited to: climate change adaptations and resiliency; urban and community forestry; coastal protection; and land conservation education programs.
Implement and facilitate Natural Resources program activities.
Interact with municipalities and communities in a positive manner, helping them meet their desired goals as a part of program delivery efforts.
Provide educational program efforts via mass media.
Deliver educational programs as a part of multi-association efforts when identified/appropriate.
Represent Cornell Cooperative Extension before the public, community leaders, government officials, Cornell or other Land Grand University faculty and staff as part of program delivery.
Serve as a team member and cooperate with the entire Association and Natural Resources staff to achieve Association program delivery goals.
Apply Natural Resources subject matter knowledge to evaluate educational program offerings.
Design/create program evaluation framework.
Ensure programs meet the requirements of funding and/or contractual requirements.
Make recommendations for programming improvements.
May be involved in multidisciplinary and/or Multi-Association team efforts for the purpose of program evaluation.
Maintain direct linkage with Cornell University faculty and staff for program evaluation guidance.
May have direct linkage with other Land Grant University faculty and staff for program evaluation guidance.
Communicate evaluation results and findings to constituents and program funders.
Collect and/or evaluate field samples related to the Natural Resources program and/or for applied research projects conducted in partnership with Cornell University faculty.
Communicate social and economic changes to Cornell University Specialists that may be studied and/or acted upon.
Ensure applied research is within the scope of the local and statewide Plan of Work.
Assist in conducted applied research in conjunction with Land Grant University Faculty as outlined in Cornell Cooperative Extension program definition and standard.
Assist in the collaboration with Cornell Faculty to design and/or create applied research collection framework.
Administrative Responsibilities
Direction and Management – 20%
Interpret Association and University program direction to plan educational programs in Natural Resources.
Work in cooperation with team members to help establish priorities and objectives for the Natural Resources Program Area.
Plan the delivery of established Natural Resources Program goals.
Assist in the design of a system of ongoing involvement of municipal staff, government officials, and community members which express the demographics of the community.
Plan educational programs and program delivery initiatives in the Natural Resources Program Area.
Plan fund development activities as appropriate.
Assist in planning major public events and programs, including, but not limited to: planning of mass media efforts related to upcoming events and programs.
Provide moderate-complexity administrative management of established educational program goals.
Assist in identifying and recommending program needs (i.e. program supplies and materials) to the Supervisor.
Solve problems and resolve conflicts that arise within the program utilizing appropriate policies and procedures.
Provide support and assist with problem solving when needed in accordance with established practices and procedures, involving the Supervisor and/or Association Executive Director when appropriate.
Manage fund development activities as appropriate.
Provide management (including recruitment and selection) and supervision (including guidance, performance feedback and annual performance reviews) to designated staff in accordance with established policies, procedures and protocol, and provide regular staffing updates to the Supervisor and/or Executive Director as required.
Coordination/Operation – 5%
Organize and coordinate program activities related to climate adaptations and resiliency.
Coordinate program activities that foster a robust participant base, including, but not limited to: recruiting initiatives and events, recognition events, and other programs and program activities as identified.
Provide administrative support for assigned Natural Resources Programs including, but not limited to: preparing correspondence, maintaining files, maintaining participant records, etc. ensuring confidentiality of all information.
Coordinate a menu of educational activities, as needed, virtually and in the community, to include, but not limited to: climate change adaptations and resiliency; coastal protection; and land conservation education programs.
Coordinate effective marketing strategies in the promotion of programming efforts to include, but not limited to: print media, news media, social media, and multi-media efforts.
Collect evaluation data and program needs assessments from program participants based on existing evaluation framework and guidelines.
Effectively maintain professional relationships with other agencies, organizations and businesses that promote effective communication and facilitate continued programming efforts.
This position may require the transport of program participants and/or program materials and resources in performing position responsibilities.
Professional Improvement and Other Duties as Assigned – 5%
In cooperation with Supervisor and/or Executive Director, jointly develop and pursue a professional development plan as a means to increase competencies relative to position accountabilities and to address changes in programming and association priorities.
Collaborate in activities that are in general support of Cornell Cooperative Extension including but not limited to attendance at staff meetings, timely reporting of expenses, working with other staff, general marketing of Extension programs and other duties as assigned.
Health and Safety
Support the association to maintain a safe working environment.
Be familiar and strive to follow any applicable federal, state, local regulations, association health and safety policy/procedure/requirement and standard.
Act proactively to prevent accidents/injuries and communicate hazards to supervisors when identified.
Position Details
This is an exempt, full-time position. The annual salary for this position will range from $85,000-$90,000.
Application Process
Sponsorship for employment visa status is not available for this position.
The Association may make reasonable accommodations to enable applicants to participate in the hiring process and employees to perform the essential functions of their job. If you require an accommodation so that you may participate in the selection process you are encouraged to contact Cornell Cooperative Extension Administrative Systems at (607) 255-6120, or via email at: cce.recruitment@cornell.edu.
If you have a disability and are having trouble accessing information on this website or need materials in an alternate format, contact nassau@cornell.edu for assistance.
#J-18808-Ljbffr