Audubon Pennsylvania, a staff of 20 full- and part-time professionals, inspires people to conserve, restore and enjoy natural habitats throughout the state. APA focuses on birds and other wildlife through education, science, the careful use of resources, and by serving as a strong voice for policies and programs which benefit the natural world. APA programs include the John James Audubon Center at Mill Grove, and the Discovery Center at Strawberry Mansion Reservoir in Philadelphia. Adding to activities are educational programs across central Pennsylvania with offices in Harrisburg at the Wildwood Center, a growing bird-friendly forest management program based in State College, a significant presence along the Kittatinny Ridge and Important Bird Area projects throughout the state.
The Program Coordinator is responsible for supporting and facilitation of community engagement programs in Philadelphia. This position will focus on aligning programs to National Audubon’s Bird Friendly Communities (BFC) strategy and engaging communities in developing healthier habitats that benefit both birds and people. S/he will help assist with planning, developing, and implementing public, school and family program/events in Philadelphia, and will work in partnership with staff to provide conservation programs in targeted communities in the city. The Coordinator will report to the Director of the Delaware River Watershed Program, and work closely with all Audubon Pennsylvania staff in Southeastern PA, especially the Center and Education Manager at the Discovery Center.
- Work as a member of the Audubon PA team in Southeastern PA, in partnership with the Philadelphia Parks & Recreation and Philadelphia Water Department, community-based conservation programs at targeted priority sites in and surrounding Fairmount Park that engages new audiences and improves habitat in the city with emphasis on Cobbs, Tacony and Wissahickon sections of Fairmount Park.
- Assist and support the development and implementation of native plant propagation program in Fairmount Park. Engage local schools and community groups in this program.
- Administer programs and Audubon’s visibility in Strawberry Mansion neighborhood in conjunction with the Discovery Center.
- Under the guidance of the Director of the Delaware River Watershed Program, and in partnership with the Center and Education, Manager at the Discovery Center, plan, coordinate and evaluate school and public programs for children and adults.
- Work with Audubon Pennsylvania staff to design and implement green infrastructure programs and engage communities in habitat restoration programs in Fairmount Park IBA.
- Assist with building and maintaining partnerships with Philadelphia Water Department, Philadelphia Park and Recreation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife and schools to create successful conservation programs throughout the city.
- Explore ways to engage new and diverse communities, including under-represented audiences in the city.
- Promote and where appropriate utilize community science-based activities and science databases such as eBird, to engage and track public efforts to protect wildlife.
- Build partnerships with local community organizations, schools, businesses and others to increase awareness of Audubon and our programs.
- Help to manage and train volunteers and seasonal educators, as needed.
- Work with appropriate staff within Audubon PA and National Audubon Society to align programming to the national Bird-Friendly Communities strategy.
- 2-3 years' experience working with both children and adults on education programs or community engagement initiatives. Experience in conservation, ecology, ornithology strongly preferred.
- Excellent communication and writing skills are essential.
- Strong interpersonal and social skills with a positive attitude and good sense of humor.
- Ability to work in a dynamic fast-paced environment, and have strong organizational skills in order to prioritize project tasks.
- Strong computer skills with an emphasis on Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and social media platforms.
- Demonstrated commitment to conservation and the mission of the National Audubon Society.