Summer Programs Specialist

Job Title: Summer Programs Specialist

Department: Conservation Capacity Building Team

Reports To: Training Programs Specialist/ Conservation Capacity Building Manager

FLSA Status: Exempt, Seasonal

Effective Date:

Start Date: May 29th   

End Date: July 26th

Compensation: A stipend of $680/week will be paid bi-weekly.

·       This includes two weeks of paid training, one-week paid time off during the week of July 4th, and one-week paid clean-up after student experiences are concluded

·       Lodging is provided on site, and meals will be provided while working with educational groups on the grounds

Position Purpose:

Want more than a regular summer job? Come to White Oak and help inspire the next generation of conservationists by creating a comfortable, safe, fun learning environment while also exploring career pathways for yourself!

You will play a crucial role in creating a dynamic and educational experience for student participants ranging in age from elementary school through early college. This exciting opportunity allows you to combine your love for wildlife with your enthusiasm for education, fostering a sense of wonder and appreciation for conservation. This position will also allow you to experience the ins and outs of a large-scale animal facility, growing your capacity as a leader in conservation.

The primary functions of this job include but are not limited to:

·       Ensuring the safety and well-being of students

·       Present, support or co-lead education programs

·       Administer over the counter medications as directed

·       Transport students within White Oak

·       Lead and organize activities

·       Create a safe and open environment where residents/students feel welcome

·       Monitor residential experiences throughout the night.

Summer Program Specialists will also be expected to shadow wildlife care takers to help understand the space and culture attendants will be working in. This will require partaking in strenuous outdoor activity and assisting with wildlife keeping responsibilities. Specialists will have around 40 hours of animal care training.

Program Responsibilities and Tasks:

·       Group supervision of students with attention to all the following: program, health, happiness, discipline, cleanliness, safety, routine duties, character, and skill development.

·       Help plan and deliver education projects and activities.

·       Assume accountability for the health and welfare of students.

·       Understand, follow, interpret, and enforce all rules, policies, and procedures.

·       Exhibit personal habits, health, dress, speech, and relationships with other staff that serve as a beneficial model to students.

·       Live on-site during the summer season and supervise resident experiences, requiring overnight stays at White Oak.

·       Alert staff to problems as they arise and participate in solutions as necessary.

·       Help develop, carry out and evaluate education programs.

·       Ensure the safety and well-being of students under care.

·       Transport students within and/or outside White Oak as needed for education programs.

·       Maintaining composure and ensuring student safety and order around large animals.

·       Take direction from other staff members of different departments.

·       Maintaining supervision and safety for students during day trips off grounds.

Wildlife Keeping Responsibilities and Learning Opportunities:

·       Ability to learn about animal husbandry skills including cleaning, feeding, diet prep, diet stocking and organization

·       Knowledge of different animal behaviors, including identifying vocalizations, body language/postures, reproductive behaviors, and social dynamics

·       Habitat maintenance including landscaping and fabrication

·       Basic research skills in observation training, note taking and reporting

·       Observation of veterinary care practices

Qualifications:

·       Must be at least 18 years of age

·       Preferred: Experience working with youth ages 12-17, preferably in an overnight, or residential setting.

·       Preferred: Experience supporting or working events

·       Preferred: Professional or lived experience working with or supporting historically marginalized communities.

·       Experience in informal or formal lesson development and facilitation.

·       Coursework, professional or lived experience in science, nature studies, outdoor education, and/or wildlife.

·       Strong verbal communication skills and can speak to large groups of children and adults.

·       Flexible approach to daily responsibilities, possess a positive approach to a team environment.

·       Must be creative, flexible, and organized.

·       Ability to value and respect the opinions and beliefs of others.

·       Passion for White Oak’s mission and for working with students.

·       Ability to work weekends, holidays, and nights.

·       Experienced and comfortable working outside in high heat and humidity

·       CPR, First Aid, and AED adult and pediatric certification.

·       Current Lifeguard certification or a willingness to attain certification prior to start.

·       Valid driver’s license.

·       Candidates must complete and pass a level II background check and sign an affidavit of good moral character, as required by the Florida Department of Children and Families.

All required background checks, lifeguard courses and necessary training costs as outlined in the role description are covered by White Oak.

Physical Aspects of the Job:

Candidates must be able to lift 50 lbs. without difficulty, work in adverse weather conditions, and remain on their feet for extended periods of time.

To apply, please submit a cover letter telling us why you are interested in working at White Oak supporting summer programs, a resume, and three references to education@white-oak.org.

White Oak Conservation is committed to creating an environment where diverse perspectives are welcome, and to nurturing a culture where everyone feels valued and appreciated.  We strongly encourage you to apply if you are from a marginalized or underrepresented group, particularly if you are interested in conservation as a career. If learning about conservation, supporting students, and working outside sparks your passion, we want to read your application.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, race, color, age, national origin, religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, citizenship, pregnancy or maternity, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable national, federal, state, or local law.