Charles C. and Rebecca S. Richardson Post-Baccalaureate Education Fellowship
Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve, Southern Maine

About the Wells Reserve:
The Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve is one of 27 protected areas throughout the nation dedicated to practicing and promoting coastal and estuarine stewardship through innovative research and education programs. The Reserves are a partnership between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the coastal states. The Wells Reserve encompasses 2,250 acres along the southern coast of Maine. It has 7 miles of trails that take visitors through the diverse habitats, which are home to a variety of wildlife including several endangered species. The Visitor Center, offices, and laboratory are housed in a cluster of restored 19th-century farm buildings that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Laudholm Trust - the Wells Reserve's non-profit partner - spearheaded the effort to save this historic site and create Maine's only National Estuarine Research Reserve.

About the Charles C. and Rebecca S. Richardson Post-Baccalaureate Education Fellowship:
The Wells Reserve is actively engaged in interdisciplinary programs that focus on environmental learning and helping Maine communities address complex environmental issues. Through the Charles C. and Rebecca S. Richardson Post-Baccalaureate Education Fellowship, we propose an integrated approach to environmental study including coastal science, environmental stewardship, and environmental learning. This Fellowship will provide recently-graduated students from an accredited institution of higher education with an opportunity to gain hands-on experience. In turn, this experience will help Maine students to compete favorably for Maine based-jobs, adding to the qualified environmental workforce.

Fellowship Description:
The Charles C. and Rebecca S. Richardson Post-Baccalaureate Education Fellow will:
a) Coordinate Summer Camps: Develop and implement the curriculum for Junior Researchers and Just for Kids summer day camps for kids ages 6-12. He/she will work with a seasoned staff educator to co-lead all summer camp programs.
b) Develop Trail Guide Materials: The Wells Reserve has received a grant to re-design the Discovery Program, which is a series of trail guides and activity backpacks visitors can use on self-guided trail excursions. The Fellow will manage this project by researching types of trail guide materials in use at other nature centers, draft a proposal and plan for a new trail guide, and then implement the approved plan.
c) Have Involvement with Designing New Interpretive Exhibits: The Wells Reserve is re-designing the interpretive exhibits in the Visitor Center. The Fellow will assist with this project during the planning phase. Based on the concept design and the Fellow's specific interests, the Fellow may be responsible for developing components of the exhibits.
d) Environmental Leadership Program Development: The Environmental Leadership Program will be a new initiative designed to incorporate marine biology, environmental studies, and environmental education into an intensive summer experience for high schoolers starting in Summer 2009. The Fellow will work closely with the Education Director to develop an outline, identify and secure commitments from relevant natural resource managers, market the program, and set up logistics.
e) Gain experience in the breadth of programs offered by the Wells Reserve, including the Research, Stewardship, and Coastal Training Departments, and the School and Public Interpretive Programs. The Fellow will also gain exposure to other regional environmental education, research, and stewardship centers through professional field trips.
f) Receive considerable opportunities for networking with regional environmental organizations and agencies through the above projects and through participation in relevant conferences and workshops.

Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree granted in 2007 or 2008 from a Maine institution of higher education in environmental education, education, environmental science, marine biology, biology, or related field

Desired Skills and Abilities:
teaching experience with a wide range of age levels in a variety of settings
experience with curriculum development and educational program planning
proven ability to work independently and as part of a team
multi-tasking and prioritizing
computer skills including the Microsoft Office Suite; experience with Adobe Photoshop and InDesign preferred
knowledge of northeastern coastal ecosystems, especially salt marshes
strong work ethic
strong organization skills
valid driver's license with clean driving record and ability to drive a 15 passenger van, positive attitude and flexible worker

Time Commitment:
A full-time commitment is required from early June 2008 through early June 2009. Work days will typically be Monday through Friday with occasional evenings and weekends. Depending upon the candidate, continuation of the position may be possible, up to an additional year.

Compensation:
$16,640 annual stipend; free communal housing at the newly completed sustainable dormitory within walking distance; $1,500 annual health care stipend.

To apply:
Please send a cover letter and resume to the email, address, or fax number below; email is preferred. Applications must be received by Sunday, April 13.