Position Opening: Education & Outreach Manager

February 13, 2015

The Downeast Lakes Land Trust (DLLT) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Grand Lake Stream, with a mission to contribute to the long-term economic and environmental well-being of the Downeast Lakes region through the conservation and exemplary management of its forests and waters.  DLLT sustainably manages the 33,708-acre Farm Cove Community Forest for wildlife habitat, forest products, and public recreation.  We are seeking to expand our work through the 21,870-acre West Grand Lake Community Forest Project as described on our website, www.downeastlakes.org.

We have built an outstanding outdoor education and communications program, and our goal is to maintain the excellence of this program.  In addition, we are always seeking to build stronger connections between local residents, visitors, and the natural resources that sustain the economy, all while educating future generations and building their appreciation for the natural environment and sustainable use of forest resources.  We seek an energetic, motivated individual to fill the role of Education and Outreach Manager (EOM).

The EOM will lead DLLT’s education program and assume substantial responsibilities for outreach communications including DLLT print and online materials. The EOM works under the supervision of the Executive Director.  This is a full-time, managerial position which will require some work on weekends, holidays, and during non-traditional hours.

Specific areas of responsibility include:

Education Program Development & Implementation: The EOM will lead DLLT education programs including the “Explorations & Adventures” and “Serious Skills” youth-focused summer programs and the adult-focused “History & Heritage” series, while partnering with local schools and camp programs.  Program participants range in age from children under 10 years old to adults and seniors.  While some programs are based in the classroom, many include outdoor excursions in the community forest and surrounding lakes and streams in all weather and all seasons.  The EOM will be expected to lead some programs, while coordinating others and arranging expert teachers, presenters, and program leaders.

 Outreach and Public Relations: The EOM will be responsible for writing and development of print, online, and social media outreach materials and donor communications and will assist with media relations.  The EOM will plan and coordinate outreach and special events, and will provide information on and promote DLLT programs, plans, and policies to the DLLT community, other organizations, and the media.  The EOM will assist with writing grant proposals and reports to private foundations and state and federal agencies in support of the education and communication program.  

Committee Support: Prepare Education committee agendas and reports to the committees and board; attend and participate in Education and Development committee meetings and other meetings as needed.  Coordinate with committee Chairs to synthesize information from all DLLT committees in support of outreach and communication responsibilities.

Staff and Volunteer Support: Manage and provide support for interns, contractors, and volunteers working in the Education & Outreach Manager’s areas of responsibility. Assist in development of volunteer program, including recruitment and acknowledgement of volunteers.

Fiscal Management:  Assist in developing budget recommendations and in evaluating financial implications of recommended activities.  Track education and communication program expenses, including grant monitoring and reporting.

Location: The position is based in Grand Lake Stream, Maine.  This is a small, rural community (winter pop. 100) with a traditional natural resource-based economy focused on outdoor recreational tourism and the timber products industry.  Amenities are available in nearby towns including Calais (30 miles), Machias (70 miles), and Bangor (100 miles).

Qualifications: Must have demonstrated leadership, education, communication, and task management capabilities. Experience with grant writing and teaching in both classroom and outdoor settings desired. Outstanding interpersonal skills with children and adults of all ages, and a demonstrated ability to form partnerships with individuals, agencies, and organizations are required.  Excellent verbal and written communication skills are critical, along with demonstrated professional experience and proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, website management, and social media. Experience with public speaking both with, and without, the use of audiovisual aids.  Must be comfortable living and working in a small community in rural Maine.  Experience and comfort with outdoor recreation activities including hiking, boating, and winter sports are preferred.  Knowledge of natural sciences such as ecology, environmental quality, and natural resource management a plus.  Current wilderness medical certification or willingness to obtain certification is preferred.  A Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in a closely related field is preferred.

Compensation: Commensurate with qualifications and comparable to similar positions.

 Contact:

Send resume, cover letter, and contact info for 3 references by email to dlltsearch@downeastlakes.org, ATTN: Education & Outreach Position.  For more information on the Downeast Lakes Land Trust, see www.downeastlakes.org. DLLT is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applications must be received by Sunday, March 8^th.