Outreach Program Specialist

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Job Title:

Department:

Under the supervision of the Department of Entomology Manager of Community Outreach, the Outreach Program Specialist will coordinate and deliver entomology-related outreach operations and programming based out of the Columbus campus.

Outreach and Engagement
Provide entomology-based outreach programs and activities to a diverse audience. Work with outreach team to deliver youth programs that align with Ohio state science education standards, interpretive programs to the public of all ages, and outreach services to key partners and stakeholders (Ohio State Extension, Master Gardener Volunteers, community groups, etc.). Utilize live arthropods provided by the Ohio State Insectary for both small-scale outreach programs and larger mobile bug zoo (BUGmobile) events. Engage entomology students in outreach activities and support the recruiting and training of students, interns and volunteer “Insect Ambassadors” to deliver outreach to the public. Support and work collaboratively with Entomology faculty and Extension personnel to develop and/or coordinate workshops, seminars, or webinars that support entomology’s Extension and research missions, including pollinator education and pest management focused programs.

Logistics and Coordination
Serve as the primary operational point of contact and coordinate end-to-end logistical lifecycle for all Columbus-based outreach programs. Responsible for managing schedules, timelines, organizing staff and volunteer shift rosters, and overseeing on-site setup and teardown. Oversee operations and maintenance of the BUGmobile ensuring compliance with all safety protocols and policies. Assist with creation of relevant outreach program digital content for the department’s communications. Find and apply for applicable funds to support programming. Provide regular feedback to the Department of Entomology Manager of Community Outreach for continuous improvement of programming, and ensure sufficient data is gathered to record the impact of outreach and for annual reporting and planning.

Entomology Diagnostics and Public Inquiries
Field entomology-related public inquiries and respond to questions from the public and stakeholders. Work with the Ohio State Plant and Pest Diagnostic Clinic to confirm and disseminate diagnostic information related to arthropods.

Arthropod Care
Follows established standard operating procedures to ensure proper care of the animals used in outreach activities.

Location
Position based in entomology space on the Columbus Campus. Travel and schedule flexibility are required, position requires driving a large vehicle with a trailer both within city limits and on highways.

Education and Qualifications
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree in relevant field or equivalent experience. 2 years of relevant experience required. 2 years of experience providing arthropod outreach programming or interpretation and working with live arthropods, including insects, spiders and other invertebrates; 2 years of experience developing, coordinating, and delivering outreach activities; must be highly organized with attention to detail and experience with scheduling and logistics; excellent communication and interpersonal skills with ability to communicate with diverse clientele; proficient in Microsoft office suite applications, including Teams and Outlook; able to lift and carry 40 pounds; must be able to work a flexible schedule to deliver outreach programs on nights and weekends; hold a valid driver's license and have experience driving a large vehicle and hauling a trailer within city limits and on highways.

Desired Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree in relevant field and 2-4 years of experience providing arthropod outreach programming or interpretation and working with live arthropods, including insects, spiders and other invertebrates; 2-4 years of experience developing, coordinating, and delivering outreach activities; demonstrated organizational skills with attention to detail and experience with scheduling and logistics; fluent in Microsoft office suite applications, including Teams and Outlook documented track record of excellent communication and interpersonal skills with ability to communicate with diverse clientele; able to lift and carry 40 pounds; must be able to work a flexible schedule to deliver outreach programs on nights and weekends; hold a valid driver's license and be comfortable driving a large vehicle and hauling a trailer within city limits and on highways.

Additional Information:

This job profile is a Community Outreach Analysis 2 (S2 level) on the career roadmap.

The offer for this position will fall within the positions pay range based on internal equity, unit’s available budget, and the candidate’s qualifications

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