Education Program Specialist

Sonoma County Water Agency (Sonoma Water) is looking for an experienced educator to join their team as a Water Education Programs Specialist I. As a Water Education Program Specialist I, you will be responsible for developing, implementing, coordinating, and evaluating water and energy related educational programs for students, teachers, and community members. You will work to enhance water literacy and foster a deeper understanding of water resources, climate and energy, water conservation, and environmental stewardship through engaging hands‑on learning experiences. You will also support community engagement initiatives and collaborate with partner organizations to expand the reach and impact of Sonoma Water's educational programs. Responsibilities Planning, developing, and facilitating Next Generation Science Standards‑based environmental education programs covering topics such as water-use efficiency, water quality, stormwater pollution prevention, climate change, renewable energy, fishery restoration, watershed awareness, and how our community gets drinking water. Coordinating field trips, classroom programs, teacher workshops, and other educational events or activities. Marketing programs to eligible teachers through social media, flyers, websites, and newsletters. Developing and delivering professional learning opportunities for teachers and informal educators. Training and supporting team members on curriculum, program procedures, and best teaching practices. Planning and implementing community outreach activities, workforce development initiatives, and contests. Assessing the success of educational programs and making changes to improve student learning, teacher satisfaction, equity, effectiveness, and relevance. Preparing program reports and public-facing documents. Developing, updating, and maintaining educational curriculum and instructional resources. Collaborating with schools, community partners, and internal departments to expand and strengthen educational opportunities. Qualifications A teaching credential and experience working in classroom and outdoor settings. A Bachelor's degree with coursework in education, environmental studies, science, public relations, or a related field. Working knowledge of curriculum development, child development, Next Generation Science Standards, basic environmental science principles, marketing and graphic design, and public outreach programs. Experience coordinating educational programs, field trips, events, outreach activities, or similar projects. Experience building collaborative relationships with schools, educators, volunteers, community partners, and diverse audiences. Ability to work independently while also working effectively as part of a team. Ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities in a dynamic work environment. Strong public speaking, presentation, and written communication skills. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Creative Cloud, website content management, graphic design and CRM software is desirable. Bilingual (English/Spanish) speaking and writing skills are highly desirable but not required. About Sonoma Water Sonoma Water is a special district formed by the California State Legislature in 1949 and is responsible for providing a safe and reliable water supply to its customers in Sonoma and Marin counties. Sonoma Water also maintains 75 miles of flood control channels and provides sanitation services. Employing approximately 250 employees, Sonoma Water is organized into four divisions: Environmental Resources, Business Services and External Affairs, Water/Wastewater Operations and Maintenance, and Engineering and Resource Planning. Sonoma Water supports environmental sustainability and strives to be a leader in water‑use efficiency and fishery restoration programs. Benefits Hybrid Telework (schedule may be available depending on assignment) Salary Advancement – salary increase after 1,040 hours (6 months when working full‑time) for good performance; eligibility for annual increases up to the top of the salary range. Career Advancement – opportunity for advancement to Water Agency Programs Specialist II (annual salary up to $122,555). Paid Time Off – competitive vacation and sick leave accruals, 12 paid holidays, and an additional 8 floating holiday hours per year. County Paid Health Premium Contributions – 100% premium contribution for most employee‑only and employee‑plus‑family health plans. Post‑Retirement Health Reimbursement Arrangement – County contributions to help fund post‑retirement health insurance/benefits. Retirement – pension fully integrated with Social Security. Paid Parental Leave – up to 8 weeks (320 hours) after 12 months of County employment. Additional Benefits – excellent dental, vision, disability, life insurance, employee assistance program, professional development, & more. Student Loan Debt Relief – potential eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness. The County of Sonoma values diversity and is dedicated to creating a workplace environment that provides individuals with a sense of belonging. We are committed to having a diverse workforce that is representative of the communities we serve. The County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr