Place-based Education Specialist - College of Education and Community Innovation

This position works with the Center for Educational Partnerships (CEP), Groundswell Stewardship Initiative (GSI) advisory teams, and a network of community partners to support PK-12 schools in the adoption and active use of place-based stewardship education (PBSE) principles and related practices within their institutions.
Primary Duties:
Implement existing grant and program requirements, including project management, budgeting, and reporting
Collaborate with CEP staff and other GSI stakeholders to develop new grant/funding proposals
Work with CEP staff and other GSI stakeholders to develop, market, implement, and evaluate high-impact professional learning opportunities around PBSE
Support PK-12 educators in the field to facilitate the development and implementation of student-led PBSE projects
Support PK-12 teachers and community partners in the development of mutually beneficial relationships that support student/community stewardship
Work with CEP staff and other stakeholders to identify and implement strategies for program development, sustainability, and continuous improvement
Perform other duties as assigned per grant agreement and/or leadership
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:
Bachelor's degree in related field
A minimum of five (5) years of experience in K-12 focused classroom/programing, with a focus on developing learning experiences that align with K-12 curriculum standards
A minimum of two (2) years of experience planning, facilitating, and evaluating high-impact professional development for adult learners
Familiarity with and commitment to PBSE principles and practices of PBSE principles and practices
Strong skills in written and verbal communication, organization, and conceptualization
Ability to design and deliver effective presentations to a variety of audiences
Strong skills in cultural competence and collaboration, including an ability to work effectively with multiple stakeholders and within large and small teams on various projects
Demonstrated commitment to community-based environmental stewardship with a focus on diversity, equity, inclusion, and racial justice
Basic skills in fund development, including a basic knowledge of writing effective proposals, managing and reporting on funded projects, and cultivating professional relationships with funders
Willingness to learn new approaches to teaching and learning in order to support university and K-12 educators and students in the planning and practice of place-based stewardship education
Proficiency with office technology and software
Preferred Qualifications and Education:
Master's degree in educational leadership, nonprofit management, or related field
Experience working in higher education
Experience with project management software
Experience developing, managing, and interpreting/applying project and program evaluation for organizational reporting and continuous improvement
Working Conditions: Normal office environment. Some travel may be required.
Salary: Minimum starting salary range of $50,000-$52,000, commensurate with experience.
Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, life insurance, generous employer retirement contributions, wellness resources and tuition waiver effective on date of hire.
How To Apply: Attach your cover letter, resume, and three professional references, with contact information. Applications missing required documents will not be considered.
The system will allow you to attach these documents electronically. If you need technical assistance, please contact Human Resources at hro@gvsu.edu. If you have questions about the position, contact search chair Clay Pelon at pelonc@gvsu.edu.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States and must not require sponsorship now or in the future.
Application Deadline: October 25, 2026. The posting may be closed at any time at the discretion of the University.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Must have the physical stamina to work long hours and/or more than 5 days per week. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The information contained in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act as amended by the ADA Amendment Act (2008), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and other applicable federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability. GVSU will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. See www.gvsu.edu/equalopportunity/. TDD Callers: Call Michigan Relay Center at 711 (in State) or 1-800-833-7833 (out of State).
Grand Valley State University is an Antidiscrimination/Equal Opportunity Employer, which includes providing equal opportunity for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. University policy extends protections to additional identities.