Environmental, Ecological and Outdoor Education Specialist - Seasonal

Fort William Historical Park offers a variety of programs for school groups and other visitors including history, culture, on water canoeing experiences, and science based options. The Park is one of the largest living history sites in Canada and invites guests to step back into the past and experience a unique time and place in history. It is also home to the David Thompson Astronomical Observatory which houses one of the largest publicly accessible telescopes in central Canada.

As the Environmental, Ecological and Outdoor Education Specialist, you will play an important role in supporting unique and creative historic and contemporary themed educational program offerings. Apply your specialized knowledge of astronomy, ecology and outdoor recreation and your ability to consult with industry experts and stakeholders to plan, coordinate and implement a wide range of educational opportunities for visitors of all ages.

OPS Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Anti-Racism:

We are committed to build a workforce that reflects the communities we serve and to promote a diverse, anti-racist, inclusive, accessible, merit-based, respectful and equitable workplace.

We invite all interested individuals to apply and encourage applications from people with disabilities, Indigenous, Black, and racialized individuals, as well as people from a diversity of ethnic and cultural origins, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions.

Visit the OPS Anti-Racism Policy and the OPS Diversity and Inclusion Blueprint pages to learn more about the OPS commitment to advance racial equity, accessibility, diversity, and inclusion in the public service.

We offer employment accommodation across the recruitment process and all aspects of employment consistent with the requirements of Ontario's Human Rights Code. Refer to the "How to apply" section if you require a disability-related accommodation.

What can I expect to do in this role?

In this role you will:
• integrate science, history, culture, ecology and the environment to develop programs to explore relationships between nature, people and land use and to assess impacts on the environment
• develop and implement astronomy programs using research grade astronomical instruments
• liaise with academics, educators and enthusiasts to develop, implement and monitor quality astronomical and related natural science programs lead student and public program development
• develop and implement curriculum-based programs and learning experiences e.g. examining flora and fauna, investigating ecological approaches through time
• research and identify new program opportunities for parklands in accordance with environmental assessment guidelines and in consultation with regulatory authorities as required
• serve as safety lead and in-house trainer for on-water programs including arranging the procurement of trainers and training front line staff
• plan, develop and implement educational and recreational programming activities, such as bird watching, nature trails, hikes, canoeing, and heritage related recreation for clients of all ages
• participate in historical dramatizations, pageants, festivals, special events

How do I qualify?

Communication and Interpersonal Skills:

• You have strong communication skills to interact with stakeholders, participate in historical dramatizations and interpretive demonstrations and prepare reports and correspondence
• You have facilitation, training and instructional skills to guide and teach others
• You are able to create and maintain stakeholder relationships

Analytical, Research and Problem Solving Skills

You have:
• research, interpretative and evaluative skills to develop and implement programs focused on astronomical, environmental, ecological and recreational themes
• problem solving skills to resolve issues and respond to emergency situations

Specialized Knowledge and Skills

You have knowledge of:
• astronomical principles and research grade astronomical instruments
• the natural sciences and the teaching of its principles as it relates to a broad spectrum learners
• regulatory guidelines as they pertain to environmentally sensitive flora and fauna
• on-water safety standards and lifesaving principles and expertise in canoeing
• progressive living history methodology, application and teaching skills
• Ontario school curriculum guidelines to develop and implement activities
• You have training and program experience pertaining to outdoor ecological and environmental education

General Skills

You have:
• planning and organizational skills to plan and coordinate activities
• demonstrated knowledge of computer systems and a variety of software such as word-processing, desktop graphics, and databases