What are the responsibilities and job description for the Outreach Education Coordinator position at The UNC System Office?
Are you passionate about connecting communities to the wonders of nature and inspiring the next generation of STEAM leaders? Our Outreach Education Coordinator plays a pivotal role in promoting the rich natural and cultural heritage of Western North Carolina through innovative, hands-on learning experiences. Whether leading dynamic programs in schools, on our property, or libraries, or fostering partnerships across the state, you'll be at the forefront of ecological education. If you're ready to make a lasting impact, think creatively, and inspire diverse communities, we invite you to embark on this exciting journey with us!
The Outreach Coordinator promotes an understanding of Western North Carolina's natural and cultural heritage through indoor and outdoor exhibits, wildlife in natural habitats, demonstrations, and dynamic programming. This role serves to develop, plan and implement programming that serves a variety of students with STEAM and outdoor education opportunities. These may occur on the Arboretum's campus but more frequently occur off-site at community events, recreation centers, libraries, schools, and parks. This position contributes to the statewide network of collaborating institutions across the state. This Coordinator will be responsible for thinking creatively in recruiting new participants, retaining current participants and fostering the development of a statewide network of partners. This responsibility includes recruitment and training of education and program staff. It also includes serving as the lead communicator to community leaders, teachers, parents, and children via email, newsletters, social media, and community events. The coordinator also develops guided programming curriculum as well as web-based distance learning opportunities as needed. This position will include overnight travel for training sessions, conferences, and meetings. Comfort with utilizing technology to promote ecological education and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) is essential. Experience working with students of differing backgrounds and community resources that support them is key. This position includes a focus on engaging K-12 students and encouraging them to consider careers in STEAM as well as entering an institution of higher learning to meet these goals.
About the Team
The North Carolina Arboretum is a 434 acre public garden affiliated with the University of North Carolina featuring indoor and outdoor exhibits, educational activities, and plant-centered research and economic development programs.The North Carolina Arboretum Society is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit corporation that supports the Arboretum's mission of cultivating connections between people and plants through membership, individual and corporate giving programs, retail operations, sponsored research activities, a fee-based educational program, exhibits, and green events. The responsibilities of the Education department include adult and youth education program development and management. The Youth Education program serves over 70,000 students through hands-on, outdoor lessons incorporating STEM education, recreation, and outdoor exploration, including field trips, student outreach, family programs, and summer day camps. As part of The North Carolina Arboretum's mission to connect people and plants, the Youth Education program maintains a presence in all 100 counties in North Carolina.
Minimum Education, Experience, and Skills
Teaching experience, program maintenance experience, background in environmental education, virtual facilitation skills, experience working in a school setting, and staff supervision experience. Graduation from a four-year college or university with a relevant degree and one year experience is required. Relevant degrees can include Ecology, Natural Science, Environmental Education, Outdoor Recreation, or Biology with course concentrations in natural science or similar areas.
Preferred Education, Experience, and Skills
Master's Degree or higher majoring in Ecology, Natural Science, Education, Outdoor Recreation or Biology. At least 5 years of experience in outdoor environmental education is strongly preferred. In lieu of a Master's Degree, equivalent professional experience in these areas will be considered in place of formal education. An Environmental Education certificate, supervisory experience, and previous experience with natural science or education research are strongly preferred. Experience maintaining online registration, scheduling, and data tools is preferred, as well as previous training and experience in the application of Wilderness First Responder.
- Classification : Curatorial Technician
- Position Competency Level : Journey
- Position Number : UNCSO-A019176
- Employment Type : SHRA
- Appointment Type : Permanent
- Full-Time / Part-Time : Full-Time
- Recruitment Salary Range : 38000-41600
- Salary Grade Equivalent :
- Location : 100 Fredrick Law Olmsted Way, Asheville, NC 28806 USA
- Posting Open Date : 1 / 9 / 2025
- Posting Close Date : 2 / 3 / 2025
The UNC System Office (includes PBS NC, NCSEAA, and NC Arboretum) is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a protected veteran.
The UNC System Office (includes PBS NC, NCSEAA, and NC Arboretum) is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.
To claim veteran's preference, all eligible persons must indicate their eligibility as requested on the application. A DD Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, may be required later in the selection process.
The UNC System Office (includes PBS NC, NCSEAA, and NC Arboretum) participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.
Human Resources Contact Information
Applicants needing assistance with the application process are asked to contact : recruiter@northcarolina.edu.
