Environmental education officer: Job description

Environmental education officers are involved in making people aware of environmental issues, promoting conservation and sustainability, and enhancing the public's enjoyment of the environment through teaching and interpreting the natural world.

The range of activities carried out in the role varies hugely from job to job. Some officers work mainly with schools, giving talks and taking part in and developing projects. They may also deliver presentations in schools, or host groups at relevant sites, such as nature reserves.

Others work with a wider range of age groups, for example leading guided nature walks for visitors or organising events and awareness campaigns. Training volunteers and community groups involved in environmental work such as conservation projects is also a common part of the job.

Typical work activities

Most environmental education posts include the development and marketing of education programmes as well as the practical delivery of them to a target audience.

Tasks often include:

• researching and developing educational programmes and resources for schools, adults, families, community groups or visitors to sites of special environmental interest;
• promoting educational programmes and resources to the target audience through leaflets, websites and newsletters;
• liaising with colleagues, teachers and community groups on the design and delivery of educational programmes;
• giving talks in schools or to community groups on environmental issues;
• teaching groups and interpreting the natural environment for them on-site by leading guided walks and answering questions;
• organising events and activities to raise awareness of environmental issues;
• training others, such as teachers, in the use of resources and in delivering educational sessions;
• researching and collating scientific data;
• recruiting, supervising and working with volunteers;
• managing other members of staff - depending on the size and structure of the organisation;
• acting as a point of contact for teachers, educationalists and colleagues, responding to requests for information on educational issues;
• generating income for projects through fundraising activities, investigating and bidding for external funding;
• evaluating the effectiveness of programmes and writing reports for your organisation or funding bodies;
• managing budgets for projects and educational programmes;
• carrying out risk assessments, particularly for outdoor activities.

At a more senior level, you might also be involved in advising on and drafting environmental education policies and strategies for your organisation or the wider community.