Summary of the Utah Master Naturalist Program Coordinator Position:

**Applications will be reviewed starting on March 10. Position open until filled.**

We are seeking a passionate and organized Utah Master Naturalist Program Coordinator to lead, develop, and expand the Utah Master Naturalist Program. The coordinator will be responsible for program administration and facilitation, curriculum development, program growth, and public outreach. This position requires a strong background in environmental education, ecology, and program coordination.

Successful candidate will be outgoing, engaging, and enthusiastic to share their passion and knowledge for Utah’s environments with the public and program participants. They also must be adept at finding and engaging local partners and experts from diverse backgrounds.

This is a part-time, non-benefited, position with approximately 29 hours of work per week. Work week schedule is flexible with a combination of remote and in office work. Occasional overnight and weekend work with statewide travel will be required based upon Utah Master Naturalist course scheduling and events. This position is telework eligible within the state of Utah. 

About the Utah Master Naturalist Program and Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter:

The Utah Master Naturalist Program (UMNP) is a science-based, hands-on program designed to educate and train Utah residents, elementary educators, and working professionals, about the state's diverse natural ecosystems and how these ecosystems are connected to communities. Through workshops, field experiences, and online courses, the program fosters a deeper understanding of Utah’s ecosystems while promoting environmental stewardship. This statewide program is operated out of USU's Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter near Park City, Utah.

Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter ("Swaner"), a unique center operated by Utah State University Extension, has a mission to preserve the land and the human connection to the natural landscape, educate the local and broader communities about the value of nature, and nurture both ecosystems and the people connected with them. Swaner conducts diverse programming on its 1,200 acre nature preserve and in its 10,000 square foot LEED Platinum EcoCenter building with interactive exhibits about the surrounding environment. As part of USU Extension, Swaner also works collaboratively with university faculty and staff, and community members and organizations, to provide research-based programs and resources with the goal of improving the lives of individuals, families and communities throughout Utah.

Swaner staff are dedicated to a creative, collaborative and solutions-focused approach to serving our local and statewide communities. Staff are empowered to bring their unique skillsets, passions and life experiences to their role, and our workplace culture is positive, supportive, and values diverse viewpoints. At the heart of our work is a belief that nature offers solutions to many human challenges, and that people have a meaningful role to play in the future of our planet.

PROGRAM COORDINATION & ADMINISTRATION:

• Oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the Utah Master Naturalist Program.
• Develop and update program curriculum, ensuring alignment with scientific research and best practices.
• Manage program logistics, including scheduling workshops, securing locations, and coordinating with partner organizations.
• Build relationships with conservation organizations, government agencies, and community groups.
• Track participant enrollment, certifications, and volunteer engagement.
• Identify and pursue grant opportunities, foundation funding, and sponsorships to support program growth and sustainability.
• Maintain records, budgets, and grant reporting requirements.

EDUCATION & OUTREACH:

• Design and lead engaging workshops, field experiences, and training sessions for participants.
• Collaborate with experts, educators, and agencies to enhance program content.
• Develop educational materials, presentations, and online resources.
• Organize networking events, continuing education opportunities, and service projects for Master Naturalists.
• Promote the program through social media, newsletters, and community events.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Degree or equivalent experience in environmental science, ecology, natural resources, education, or a related field.
• Experience in program management, environmental education, or outdoor interpretation.
• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
• Comfortable leading outdoor field activities in various environmental conditions.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and social media platforms.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with citizen science, conservation programs, or environmental education curriculum creation.
• Knowledge of Utah’s ecosystems, flora, fauna, and conservation challenges.
• Fluency in a second language, especially Spanish, Ute, Shoshoni, or Diné bizaad.
• Familiarity with K-12 teacher continuing education requirements, grant writing, or program evaluation.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Passionate about Utah Master Naturalist and Swaner’s mission.
• Outgoing, engaging, and enthusiastic to share your passion and knowledge for Utah’s environments.
• Desire to work collaboratively with partners and a team.
• Ability to be self-directed, detail oriented, and proactive regarding logistical planning and project management.
• Adept at finding and engaging local partners and experts from diverse backgrounds.
• Cultural competence in engaging people from diverse backgrounds.
• Critically evaluate and analyze current program performance, providing and implementing meaningful program updates.

Along with the online application, please attach:

1. Resume to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Resume/CV” 

2. Name and contact information for 3 professional references to be entered into Candidate Profile 

3. Cover Letter to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Documents 1-10” 

Please be prepared to answer the following questions: 

• Do you have a current driver's license?
• Are you able to report to work at Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter’s Kimball Junction office and to periodically travel to field course sites across the state of Utah?
• Do you understand that this is a part-time position with approximately 29 hours of work per week, and does not include health insurance or retirement benefits?

**Document size may not exceed 10 MB.**

The environment and physical requirements may change depending on the specific function of the work each department performs. Incumbents may be in both indoor and outdoor environments. Indoors, in an office space, event space, or public space are protected from weather conditions, but not necessarily from temperature changes. Incumbents may nearly continuously sit and often use repetitive hand motion (such as typing).

Outdoors, incumbents may not be protected from weather conditions and may be exposed to extreme heat and extreme cold. Additionally, indoor or outdoor work environments may include being confined or in narrow spaces for periods of time. The incumbent may also be exposed to loud noises or vibrations from equipment, and conditions that may affect the respiratory system, such as fumes, odors, dusts, mists, gases, and poor ventilation. Bending, crawling, and crouching may be required. Incumbents may be required to lift, push, and/or pull objects up to 50 pounds and be required to walk and/or stand for long periods of time.

Founded in 1888, Utah State University is Utah’s premier land-grant, public service university. As an R1 research institution, Utah State is dedicated to advancing knowledge and serving the public good through innovative research and scholarly activities that are grounded in reciprocal engagement with local, regional, and global communities. USU prepares students to be active, civically engaged leaders who are prepared to address critical societal challenges. Dedicated to providing a high-quality and affordable education, USU remains a leader in research, discovery, and public impact.

USU enrolls 28,900 students, both online and in person at locations throughout the state. Utah State’s 30 locations include a main campus in Logan, Utah, residential campuses in Price and Blanding, and six additional statewide campuses, along with education centers serving every county. USU Online educates students from all 50 states and 55 countries. For over 25 years, USU Extension has served and engaged Utahns in all of Utah’s counties.

Competing at the NCAA Division I level, USU is a proud member of the Mountain West Conference and will join the Pac-12 Conference beginning in the 2026-2027 season. The Aggies’ long-standing tradition of athletic and academic excellence is exemplified by conference championships in multiple sports, reflecting USU's commitment to perseverance and achievement.

Utah State is dedicated to fostering a community where all individuals feel respected, valued, and supported. We seek to recruit, hire, and retain people from all walks of life who will champion excellence in education, research, discovery, outreach, and service. We believe that promoting a strong sense of community and belonging empowers and engages all members of USU to thrive and be successful. Forbes recognized our commitment to employees when they named Utah State the best employer in Utah in 2023. Learn more about USU. 

The university provides a Dual Career Assistance Program to support careers for partners who are also seeking employment. Additionally, USU is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability, contact the university’s ADA Coordinator in the Office of Human Resources at (435) 797-0122 or hr@usu.edu. 

*updated 02/2025

In its programs and activities, including in admissions and employment, Utah State University does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination, including harassment, based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other status protected by University policy, Title IX, or any other federal, state, or local law.

The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the application of Title IX and its implementing regulations and/or USU’s non-discrimination policies:

Executive Director of the Office of Equity Matthew Pinner, discrimination@usu.edu, Distance Education Rm. 401, 435-797-1266

Title IX Coordinator Cody Carmichael, titleix@usu.edu, Distance Education Rm. 404, 435-797-1266

Mailing address: 5100 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322

For further information regarding non-discrimination, please visit https://equity.usu.edu/, or contact:

U.S. Department of Education, Office of Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 800-421-3481, OCR@ed.gov

*updated 09/2023