Environmental Stewardship Associate
Organizational Overview:
Founded in 1998, Walking Mountains Science Center’s mission is to awaken a sense of wonder and inspire environmental stewardship and sustainability through natural science education. As part of a dynamic organization, you are part of a team of like-minded, spirited colleagues who are passionate about the mission of Walking Mountains and the impact it’s making in the community.
Statement on Equity, Inclusion, and Cultural Relevance:
Walking Mountains Science Center believes that equity, inclusion, and cultural relevance are foundational values of a just world and sustainable future. We cultivate an equitable culture for staff and community members that embraces differences and offers respect in both words and actions for all people. We promote an inclusive culture where any individual or group feels welcomed, respected, supported, and valued to fully participate and share their lived experiences. Walking Mountains acknowledges that historically underrepresented populations exist and are disproportionately affected by social and environmental problems. We commit to taking intentional steps to establish accessible, relevant opportunities for all groups.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Program Development and Coordination:
Work on a small team to plan, coordinate, and implement a 6-week high school internship program that focuses on land management practices, ecosystem restoration, and stewardship ethics
Collaborate with the USFS to ensure work plans are in place and project goals are met
Assist in the adaptation and facilitation of a college-level curriculum that meets WMSC and Colorado Mountain College (CMC) objectives and standards
Provide hands-on opportunities for interns to build their knowledge about local flora and fauna during the work day
Train, supervise, and mentor interns in research protocols for USFS monitoring projects
Assist in leading a backcountry hut trip for up to three consecutive days
Attend or conduct occasional evening and weekend programs and events
Participate in partner meetings and all-staff meetings, when applicable
Operations & Risk Management:
Assist with upkeep and maintenance of facility, vehicles, and program resources including first aid supplies, teaching supplies and equipment, field gear, specimens, and library books
Safely transport students and staff in company vehicles
Maintain required medical certifications
Evaluate environmental conditions and manage risk accordingly (follow Walking Mountains’ emergency protocol and current wilderness emergency medical procedure, if needed)
USFS Field Work:
Work as part of a team with USFS fisheries and wildlife biologist and field technicians to accomplish project goals, and the maintenance and upkeep of field equipment and resources
Learn and follow USFS safety, monitoring, and cleaning protocols
Maintain the highest quality data collection integrity and database stewardship
Hike and travel to remote field sites over varied terrain in a variety of weather conditions
Additional Duties and Responsibilities:
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities and duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Science, Education, or an Environmental Science related field or equivalent experience
Willingness to develop a working knowledge of Rocky Mountain Ecology and land management issues
Experience teaching in a formal or informal setting
Self-motivated, team oriented, creative and organized
Well-developed interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills
Current driver’s license and safe driving record for the past 5 years
Certified Wilderness Advanced First Aid or higher certification (Must obtain before start date)
Must be able to hike up to 8-10 miles per day with a 30 lb. pack
Work Environment:
80% Field based projects (including travel to and from work sites), 20% office work and program preparation
Open office work environment and shared work computer
Personal vehicle or public transportation preferred to travel to office, work vehicle available for program transportation
Compensation:
$350 weekly stipend
Shared housing in Avon, CO for the duration of the position