Volunteer Opportunity: Wetlab at Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center

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WetLab Volunteer
Pacific Science Center is committed to driving science education forward in Washington State, and inspiring today’s youth to further their education and pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and math. We offer a wide variety of programs, including standards-based formal and informal science education programs and an award-winning environmental education center.
Located on a biologically diverse 320-acre wetland nature park in the heart of urban Bellevue, WA, the Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center (MSEEC) is a collaboration between the City of Bellevue and Pacific Science Center. MSEEC’s WetLab Academy offers high school students the opportunity to step away from the traditional high school chemistry curriculum. Utilizing our state-of-the-art laboratory and field equipment, students perform scientific investigations while taking advantage of the living laboratory within the Mercer Slough Nature Park.
We are seeking a volunteer who has a background or interest in environmental science and working with high school aged youth. Experience in either environmental field work or chemistry labs is required, and a background in both is preferred. Experience in clean technology is a plus. We ask that volunteers commit for a minimum of 3 months as well as be able to come in once or twice a week (see schedule below). Volunteers will assist with the Lake Washington Watershed Internship Program and/or Environmental Science & Technology Practicum.
Reports to: Mercer Slough Teen & Family Programs Supervisor
Position Start Date: October preferred
Schedule: WetLab volunteers must commit to one shift per week for a minimum of 3 months. Hours are during MSEEC programs on Tuesdays from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Volunteer shift start and end times may vary. Additional hours may be available to those interested.

 

Job Duties

  • Environmental Science/Chemistry Education: Assist WetLab teachers lead youth in conducting chemical tests, water sampling, and habitat assessments. Model and supervise proper/safe equipment and chemical use.
  • Educating Youth: Assist WetLab teachers in teaching environmental science and chemistry concepts. Model environmental stewardship behaviors and inspire environmental stewardship values within youth. Independently lead a group of teens in lab and field activities while using effective group management skills.
  • Operational Support: Contribute to overall WetLab operational functions by assisting teachers in greeting students, safely moving the group from place to place, and ensuring that equipment is used properly.

 

Required

  • 18+ Years Old
  • Pass a criminal background check
  • Provide three references (one or more being a professional reference)
  • Commit to volunteering once a week for at least 3 months on Tuesday afternoons/evenings and/or Saturday mornings/early afternoons.
Abilities and Personal Characteristic
  • Desire to work with and inspire teenagers from diverse backgrounds
  • Enthusiasm for science, the environment, and education
  • Excitement about going outside with youth in all kinds of weather
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment and flexibility should difficult situations arise
  • Excellent oral communication skills
  • Ability to present oneself in a professional manner with regards to personal appearance and hygiene
  • Ability to work neatly, cooperatively and considerately with other people
  • Smiling team player, with a pleasant disposition and service orientation
TO APPLY: Complete the volunteer application available here.
 PACIFIC SCIENCE CENTER
We are an independent, not-for-profit educational institution that inspires lifelong interest in science, math and technology by engaging diverse communities through interactive and innovative exhibits and programs in every county of Washington state and beyond.Pacific Science Center is an equal-opportunity employer. We value diversity and it is expressed in all aspects, from the people and communities we serve to our organizational culture and our employees.

Last Updated October 1, 2015