Regional Humane Educator

POSITION:                 Regional Humane Educator

STATUS:                    Temporary; Full-Time with benefits – Mat Leave coverage – 1 year

SHIFT:                        35 hours per week – 8:30am to 4:30pm-some evenings/weekends flexibility required

LOCATION:                Maple Ridge, BC – Primarily remote, meaning one day/week in an Animal Centre, the rest of the time is spent in schools/community delivering programs, running camps, etc.

CLASSIFICATION:    Exempt           

WAGE:                       Salaried                                                          

CLOSING DATE:       Open Until Filled

About the Position:

The Regional Humane Educator is responsible for the implementation of humane education programs in communities in the designated region. The Regional Humane Educator implements humane education programming in schools, through the BC SPCA community animal centres and in the general community based on provincial BC SPCA education programs and the Society’s strategic plan. The Regional Humane Educator functions as part the provincial BC SPCA Education Department team delivering presentations and workshops primarily focusing on youth education but also includes humane education for the general public.

Some specific duties:

Education goals: Specific duties will be outlined as part of the work plan and primarily involves establishing and delivering community education programming within the designated region, including virtual programming to other regions in the province. This will include programs such as spring and summer day camps, school presentations, teacher workshops, school clubs, shelter tours, youth/parent workshops and promoting and recruiting Kids Club members.

Creates a detailed annual work plan in consultation with Education Department management. Regular training and reporting procedures will be established through the work plan, as will specific tasks including the creation of B.C. curriculum-linked activities and presentations for youth and teachers and the creation of camp activities and organizing guest speakers and field trips. The Educator will also contribute to BC SPCA teacher resources such as the department’s teacher magazine and monthly e-newsletters.  

Responsible for the screening/hiring, onboarding, performance management, and termination of temporary summer camp staff and year-round youth program volunteers and casual staff; provides coaching and mentorship to ensure objectives and goals are met.

Ensures compliance with BC SPCA policies and procedures.

Celebrates individual and team successes.

Marketing and community outreach: expected to assist with promotion of programs by conducting local media interviews; distributing flyers and posts to local social media sites in their region; and by contacting local community centres, libraries and other local community groups to advertise education programming. The Educator will also establish relationships with local school districts and schools, community groups, multi-cultural organizations and Indigenous communities.

The Educator works with the education team to identify and respond to community needs, ensuring excellent community relations and promotion of the BC SPCA’s mission and services in the community; attends community events and teacher conferences as required. The Educator will also assist in identifying local fundraising grants and sponsorship opportunities.

Administrative tasks: Responsibilities include contributing to program evaluation, report writing, record keeping and humane education website and social media updates. The Educator will assist with the dissemination of program materials within the community; distribute Kids Club promotional materials; assist with budget planning; and other administrative tasks.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications you need to have:

University degree in education, sciences, social work, animal welfare, environmental studies, or general arts and/or other related discipline; and 5-8 years’ related work experience, preferably in the education sector; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptable to the employer.

Experience working with youth.

Excellent customer service, presentation and public speaking skills.

Strong communication skills, both written and oral.

Creative, energetic and good problem solving skills.

Demonstrated ability to organize work, meet priorities and to work within a demanding work schedule with minimal supervision.

Ability to work with internal and external stakeholders from diverse backgrounds in a positive and respectful manner.

Must be willing to complete a criminal record check with vulnerable sector check.

Competent computer skills utilizing the Microsoft 365; familiarity with Canva, Adobe Suite and/or web design are assets

Access to reliable transport and ability to travel throughout the region as scheduled; in some areas, may be required to have a valid class N or 5 BC driver’s license

Assets include: experience working with children of diverse learning and behavioural needs; experience with animals; familiarity with creating digital content.

Commitment to the principles of equity, diversity and reconciliation.

Philosophical harmony with the vision, mission and strategic directions of the BC SPCA.