Seasonal Education and Volunteer Coordinator

Think Wild is seeking a part time (up to 20 hours/week) seasonal (April – September) education and volunteer coordinator. This position reports to the Executive Director and must be available on some weekdays and occasional weekends. Compensation starts at $13 per hour. Think Wild is a non-profit wildlife hospital and conservation center located in Bend, Oregon.

Position Duties:

60% Education Coordination

• Coordinate and lead delivery of onsite, offsite and virtual wildlife and environmental education programs, hospital tours and workshops
• Develop and lead youth and group one-day or weekend volunteer projects
• Coordinate with education partners, businesses and program participants on scheduling, project and curriculum development, materials and program fees
• Reach out to teachers, youth organizations and other resources to increase education program development
• Train and coordinate education and outreach volunteers to assist with education program delivery
• Ensure Think Wild safety and policy protocols are followed during programs
• Maintain all equipment and supplies needed for programming
• Assist with organizing community events and coordinating public outreach, tabling as needed (depending on COVID-19 restrictions)
• Assist in development of education materials and brochure
• Ensure proper set-up and take-down for education and workshop activities
• Assist in maintaining accurate program records including incident reports, logbook documentation, and daily attendance.
• Know, enforce, and follow all safety guidelines associated with TW and all program areas. This includes but is not limited to being responsible for participant safety and whereabouts at all times.
• Know/review all emergency procedures and respond to emergency situations immediately.
• Perform other duties relating to the organization’s education goals and mission as required

40% Volunteer Coordination

• Manage recruitment, assignment, and orientation of new volunteers for hospital, education, rescue/transport and other areas as necessary
• Oversee communications and scheduling of volunteers at the wildlife hospital and for other programs as necessary
• Ensure accurate and up-to-date communications on volunteer scheduling with staff
• Oversee the training schedules and development of new volunteers
• Develop and coordinate volunteer appreciation events
• Act as point person for general questions, concerns, etc. for TW volunteers

Desired Skills and Experience:

• Passion for Think Wild mission
• Currently enrolled or completed B.A. or B.S. in science, biology, environmental sciences, education, environmental education, or a related course of study (or work experience to replace)
• Demonstrate enthusiasm for teaching wildlife-related topics and preferably have environmental education and/or teaching experience
• Safely manage program participants in an outdoor environment
• Public relations and communications skills: outgoing, helpful and positive personality; ability to work well with children and adults including giving presentations; maturity and leadership abilities; ability to handle sensitive situations in a tactful manner
• Flexible and able to adapt to an ever-changing work environment with challenging logistics
• Ability to take initiative and be creative with unique programming needs
• Ability to work well independently and as part of a small team
• Knowledge of the Central Oregon environments and wildlife is a plus
• Applicant must possess a valid driver’s license and a good driving record
• Comfortable working in the outdoors, including in and around shallow water, in sometimes physically demanding conditions (heat, biting insects, etc.)
• Willingness to follow all COVID-19 precautions, including mask wearing, hand washing, and supporting children in health and safety precautions.