Environmental Education Specialist - Little Buffalo State Park

The Department of Conservation & Natural Resources is excited to announce an opening for a full‑time Environmental Education Specialist. This position involves engaging in professional activities focused on the creation and delivery of interpretive programs that highlight the environmental, historical, and cultural significance of Little Buffalo State Park. The role is designed for individuals passionate about educating the public and fostering a deeper appreciation for nature and heritage through interactive experiences.

If you are enthusiastic about environmental education and wish to make a meaningful impact in a beautiful natural setting, we encourage you to apply today!

In this position you will be responsible for planning, developing, coordinating, and delivering educational programs focused on environmental and historical themes, as well as outdoor recreation and interpretive activities at Little Buffalo State Park. Your role encompasses all aspects of environmental education, including the creation of lesson plans, scheduling, implementation, coordination, effective presentation, and evaluation of various programs. You will facilitate engaging learning experiences through inquiry‑based methods, audiovisual presentations, guided nature walks, and professional development workshops for educators, alongside other educational initiatives that promote environmental and historical awareness.

Additionally, you will support educational institutions, civic organizations, and both public and private entities in crafting and executing educational programs, workshops, and curriculum development tailored to environmental and historical topics. Your responsibilities will also include the operation and maintenance of visitor service centers and resource libraries, as well as Shoaff’s Mill, a fully operational 19th‑century water‑powered gristmill, where you will organize and lead group tours and demonstrations.

You will implement established lesson plans for environmental learning activities, drawing from resources such as the Bureau of State Park lesson plans, Pennsylvania Land Choices, and various educational projects like Project WET and Project Wild. Furthermore, you will execute the Bureau of State Park’s Watershed Education Program for local teachers and students, ensuring that programs are scheduled and lesson plans are prepared in accordance with the Bureau’s approved format, while also submitting necessary reports on a regular basis.

Your role will involve maintaining collections related to natural, historic, cultural, and archaeological resources, assisting in the research and development of educational publications and exhibits, and coordinating the use, repair, and upkeep of equipment related to environmental education and interpretive activities.

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

• This is a seasonal, full‑time position with no healthcare benefits. The season runs from approximately April
  2026, until November 2026, at which time the employee will be placed on leave without pay. The employee will automatically be returned to employment April
  2027.
• Work shifts/days vary, will work 5 days/37.5 hours per week to include weekends and holidays.
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

• A bachelor's degree in environmental education, education, the natural sciences, social sciences, or parks and recreation;
  or an equivalent combination of experience and training.
• Applicants will be considered to have met the educational requirements once they are within 3 months of graduating with a qualifying degree.

• You must be willing to work weekends and evenings.
• You must be willing to wear a prescribed uniform.

• You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link…