JOB DESCRIPTION: Community Engagement Specialist
Status: Part-time or Full Time, including occasional evening and weekend work
Employer: Howard EcoWorks (EcoWorks) is a non-profit organization in Columbia, MD. EcoWorks’ mission is to empower communities and diverse workforces to conserve and restore our natural systems for future generations.
Reports to: Executive Director
Position Overview:
The Howard EcoWorks (EcoWorks) Community Engagement Specialist develops and implements an outreach and engagement plan to support disadvantaged communities in the Baltimore region with care and stewardship of green infrastructure, tree canopy and forests and woodlands. The Community Engagement Specialist will lead project development in these communities, lead/organize volunteer events and actively recruit for EcoWorks’ green jobs programs. The Community Engagement Specialist will use their skills in grassroots community organizing and development along with their knowledge and education in natural resources, ecology and/or forests to actively engage historically underserved communities in projects, programs, workshops and educational efforts that benefit the environment and communities.
Responsibilities & Duties:
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Develops an outreach and engagement plan for the targeted communities that includes knowledge and sensitivity towards history, demographics, the variety of community organizations serving local residents, and the current environmental and social issues.
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Implements the outreach and engagement plan in communities to include, among others, preparing and distributing printed promotional materials, tabling at events and community spaces, planning gatherings and events, and leading 7-10 educational volunteer activities to manage forests, woodlands and trees.
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Build relationships with the communities by attending community events, networking, and getting to know community leaders.
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Cultivate and sustain partnerships with local nonprofit and governmental partners, maintaining regular communication with partners.
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Develop tree planting and forest management projects in these communities for implementation by EcoWorks crews and/or volunteers.
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Recruit for EcoWorks various green jobs programs.
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Provide technical assistance and support to financial incentive programs, grants, etc to facilitate implementation and maintenance of green infrastructure.
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Track recruitment and engagement metrics. Prepare summaries or reports of outreach outcomes as requested.
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Assist with grant applications and grant reports as assigned.
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Participate in EcoWorks staff meetings, events and team building activities.
Qualifications & Requirements:
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Bachelor’s Degree in a related field such as communications, environmental studies, or other significant training or work experience.
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At least 1 year of experience in community outreach, communications or environmental (e.g., internship, volunteer, paid employee, etc.).
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Excellent communication, organization, and time management skills.
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Strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
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Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
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Comfort with public speaking.
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Proficiency in Google & Microsoft Office Suite.
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Personal vehicle and ability to travel to in person events and meetings.
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Home office and personal computer with internet connection.
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Flexible schedule and availability to work on evenings and weekends.
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Knowledge of environmental issues, particularly urban forestry and related topics.
Hours and Compensation:
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Full-time or part-time
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Salary (Full Time): $40,000-45,000
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Paid time off and paid holidays, prorated for part-time
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Access to health benefits plan, prorated for part-time
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Access to the corporate 401(k) plan, with matching based on tenure
Location:
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This position can be hybrid or remote, with the exception of required travel to in-person events and meetings within the target area and all staff meetings and events.
Equal Opportunity:
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Howard EcoWorks is committed to building a culturally diverse workplace and strongly encourages applications from minority candidates.
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Equal Opportunity Employer: Recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce is a high priority at Howard EcoWorks. EcoWorks does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender, gender expression, gender identity, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, military, genetic information, ancestry, marital status, age, citizenship or any other basis prohibited by law in any of its policies or programs.
Application & Interview Process:
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Our process requires filling out an application and submitting a current resume and cover letter.
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You're resume will be reviewed by a staff member. If you meet our qualifications, we will respond to you to schedule an interview.