05 Jan Community Engagement Coordinator (Part-Time)
Position Description:
The Community Engagement Coordinator serves a vital role in strengthening Steep Rock’s connection with our community, volunteers, and supporters. We are seeking a public-facing, community-oriented leader responsible for maintaining and enhancing a comprehensive volunteer program as well as organizing, coordinating, and leading outreach efforts that create lasting bonds between our supporters and the land, thereby inspiring future land conservation and stewardship.
General Responsibilities
Volunteer Coordination (45%)
• Identify and assess volunteer opportunities in collaboration with staff (trails, community science, Judea Garden, office, donor and community events, etc.)
• Match volunteer interests and skills with program and project needs
• Communicate with and nurture positive relationships with volunteers
• Serve as staff lead registering and recruiting volunteers, documenting participation, and assessing success of SRA- and community-based events.
• Expand and sustain relationships with local schools, youth-based organizations, businesses, and community groups to create partnership opportunities on the lands, trails, and Judea Garden
• Implement Volunteer Management Plan, including expanding and maintaining volunteer recruitment, application, orientation, placement, and recognition program
• Maintain database to track volunteers and their interests, availability, and involvement as well as draft annual volunteer report (number of volunteers by program/ total hours)
• Create internal volunteer calendar, enter volunteer opportunities in Master Calendar, and publicize volunteer activities and events
• Organize at least one volunteer appreciation/recognition event annually.
Community Engagement (45%)
• Serve as staff lead and coordinator responsible for organizing, promoting, and running programs and contributing to community events, with opportunities to develop additional programs.
• Serve as staff liaison to Community Engagement Committee (CEC), assisting in agenda creation, drafting minutes, organizing staff reports, and supporting subcommittee efforts
• Support CEC members in planning, organizing, and participating in SRA and community events
• Create and update annual program calendar and internal events calendar, enter in and maintain Master Calendar, and help publicize programs through social media, press releases, website, etc.
• Create program and/or event-related social media content and posting schedules
• Work with staff to develop outreach materials for tabling, presentations, and events
• Serve as primary contact and coordinator for Steep Rock’s Education Center and Museum housed at the Isaac Camp House
• Proactively establish and maintain community partnerships to cultivate a community-wide conservation ethic, create opportunities for education, and build connections between the community and the land.
Other Duties (10%)
• Prepare appropriate reports and materials documenting various programs and activities
• Participate in quarterly Community Engagement Committee meetings and regular staff meetings
Do You Have What We’re Looking For?
• 2 years relevant work or life experience, which may include volunteer/staff management, customer service, and/or community engagement, preferably in the nonprofit sector
• 1 year experience planning and hosting successful events, preferably in nonprofit sector.
• Connections with people, organizations, and communities in Washington/Litchfield Hills
• Familiarity with the Washington/Litchfield Hills landscape, biota, natural history, and ecology
• Passion for land conservation, stewardship, and building community connections to nature
• Excellent organizational, planning, time management, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills
• Excellent presentation, verbal, and written communication skills
• Computer/tech savvy and comfortable with social media platforms, Microsoft Office, Google products, CRMs (such as Bloomerang), and graphic design programs such as Canva
• Interest or experience in small museum and education center operations
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work productively and respectfully with co-workers, volunteers, partner organizations, and other stakeholders
• Experience engaging diverse communities and broad public support in mission-driven programs
• Valid driver’s license and reliable personal vehicle for work use. Mileage is compensated.
• Able to lift up to 25 pounds, transport and set up tables, chairs, bins, and tents, and hike trails
Organizational Description:
Founded in 1925, Steep Rock Association, Inc. is a nationally accredited, community-based, nonprofit land trust committed to conserving ecologically and historically significant landscapes in and around Washington, CT, and to enhance the community’s connection to nature through outreach, education, and passive recreation.
Hours & Compensation
Workload: Year-round, part-time, average 24 hours/week but may vary seasonally with event load
Schedule: Flexible but will include weekends and evenings
Compensation: $23-27/hour. Eligible for simple IRA plan
Position reports to Steep Rock’s Director of Administration
Ready to Be Part of our Team?
Ready to make a difference in engaging our community in environmental conservation? To apply, email a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three references to info@steeprockassoc.org with “CEC Coordinator” in the subject line. Position open until filled. Available immediately.
Working with Steep Rock Association
Steep Rock Association is an Equal Opportunity Employer that acts in accordance with laws applicable to employment practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. SRA offers a collaborative, team-oriented work environment, in which a cooperative spirit and ability to work with other staff, trustees, and volunteers are highly valued.