The Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Chesapeake and Coastal Service, Center for Conservation Education and Stewardship (CES) Aquatic Resources Education Program (AREP), is currently accepting applications for a Conservation Education Specialist (Administrative Officer III). The overall purpose of this position is to provide educational, scientific and technical support to AREP, in the context of developing, managing, and conducting science education programs and materials. The incumbent will conduct and expand environmental education programs for the Department that involve classroom and outdoor science investigations, including the Sunfish and Students Program; Trout in the Classroom, working with K-12 schools on water quality student action projects; programs engaging teachers and students in studying impacts of climate change on a variety of Maryland natural resources, and other DNR education activities. This work will require developing instructional materials based on the real science, research and restoration work of DNR and other state and Federal agencies and aligned to current academic standards and teaching practices; delivering the materials to educators through professional development workshops; field testing materials with students; collaborating with partners outside of DNR; and managing comprehensive educational programs. The work will also involve outreach and communication with program participants and partners.

Education: Possession of a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university.

Experience: Three years experience in administrative or professional work.

Applicants must meet the minimum and selective qualifications to be considered. Please include clear and specific information on your application regarding your qualifications.

One year of experience teaching school-based (formal) education related to science, environmental science, or similar academic content areas; or one year of experience providing environmental education in formal or nonformal settings, in particular working with advanced science lessons conducted with students outdoors.

High preference will be given to candidates with a background and direct experience in the following:

  • Strong familiarity with and experience in aquatic ecology and climate change effects in various natural habitats, with K-12 students;
  • Experience providing teacher training workshops on these and other environmental education topics;
  • Knowledge of and experience using Next Generation Science Standards, Maryland Environmental Literacy Standards, and the “Meaningful Watershed Educational Experience” framework.