The Allegan Conservation District is seeking an individual to coordinate educational programs that increase awareness of local conservation issues and enjoyment of the County’s natural resources. The Conservation Educator will be tasked with developing and executing a schedule of events with opportunities for all of the County’s land users by offering a diversity of topics, formats, locations, etc.

This is a new position at the Allegan Conservation District supervised by the Executive Director and funded through 2027 by local millage dollars. A successful education program will leverage these funds to secure grants, sponsorships, and other funding to expand and sustain the program. The incumbent will collaborate with many partners and will be expected to take a leadership role at events—directing staff and volunteers to ensure events run smoothly.

WORKING LOCATION AND CONDITIONS

The position will be based in the Allegan Conservation District office in Allegan, Michigan. Workdays are generally Monday-Friday. Occasional evenings or weekends will be required for events or meetings. The incumbent will frequently be working outdoors, which may involve traversing uneven terrain or wetlands, working around livestock, manure, and farm waste, and working in a wide range of weather conditions.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

• Identify audiences in the County and create a schedule of events that reaches each audience.
• Develop content such as educational materials, event advertisements, and press releases.
• Write formal proposals for grants and other funding sources.
• Develop and adhere to event budgets.
• Solicit sponsors, partners, and volunteers for events.
• Utilize surveys and other data to inform offerings and evaluate the success of events.
• Develop and deliver presentations or activities on a wide variety of conservation topics.
• Support other staff in implementing events that align with their project deliverables.
• Be aware of and direct clients to relevant conservation programs that support the client’s goals.
• Perform other essential activities as required by grant agreements or as assigned by the Executive Director or Board of Directors.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

• At least a 4-year equivalent degree in natural resource management, ecology, forestry, soil science, or a related field. Equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Possess a broad knowledge of modern conservation topics and issues.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, especially in public speaking.
• Computer proficiency especially with design applications like Canva or Microsoft Publisher.
• Excellent social and interpersonal skills; able to work effectively with diverse clientele.
• Ability to independently plan and work towards program goals.
• Must have a reliable personal vehicle for work activities when a District vehicle is unavailable.

Preferred:

• Familiarity with Allegan County and its natural features.
• Technical writing experience, especially project proposals.
• Experience managing volunteers.
• Working knowledge of native Michigan plants.