The LAIT911 Urban-Wildland Safety & Education Docent role is designed for individuals passionate about environmental education, public safety, and community engagement. Docents represent LAIT911 across a mix of natural wildland areas and human-made infrastructures throughout the San Fernando Valley, such as dams, flood control zones, and open spaces. They educate the public on wildfire prevention, disaster preparedness, local ecology, and the interaction between natural and built environments, all while promoting responsible outdoor recreation. This role demands a high level of academic rigor—docents are expected to master complex information from technical and scientific sources and present it with clarity and authority.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Engage with the public to share in-depth information about wildfire safety, disaster preparedness, environmental conservation, and the role of man-made infrastructures like dams and flood control systems in public safety.
  • Serve as a “human textbook,” capable of processing, deciphering, and accurately reciting complex, college-level material from whitepapers, research articles, government reports, and technical documents related to both natural and engineered environments.
  • Lead informal educational talks, guided site tours, and formal presentations focusing on topics such as disaster management, fire risk reduction, local wildlife, ecological restoration, and the impact of urban-wildland interfaces.
  • Develop PowerPoint presentations and other educational materials for public workshops, training sessions, and community events
  • Assist with public outreach at community events, volunteer fairs, and initiatives
  • Report any hazards, fire risks, or safety concerns encountered during docent shifts
  • Support trail users and visitors by providing directions, answering questions, and ensuring a positive and safe experience.
  • Promote LAIT911’s mission and encourage public participation in fire watch programs, emergency preparedness initiatives, and volunteer opportunities

Requirements:

  • Exceptional ability to process, analyze, and retain large amounts of complex information, including scientific research, government reports, and technical manuals.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to recite detailed information accurately and clearly, almost page-for-page.
  • Proficiency in creating professional PowerPoint presentations and other educational materials.
  • Willingness to complete training on wildfire prevention, disaster response basics, and local infrastructure & ecology.
  • Ability to walk moderate distances on trails and engage with visitors outdoors for extended periods.
  • Comfortable working independently and representing LAIT911 in a professional and knowledgeable manner.
  • Must be at least 18 years old, have flexibility availability on weekends

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Background in environmental science, emergency management, education, or public policy.
  • Experience in public speaking, teaching, or research.
  • Familiarity with wildland ecosystems in the San Fernando Valley.
  • CPR/First Aid certification (not required but encouraged).

Time Commitment:

  • Minimum of two docent shifts per month (approximately 3–4 hours each), taking place on weekend mornings, and occasionally weekday evenings.
  • Attendance at monthly team meetings and training sessions to stay updated on safety protocols, public outreach strategies, and scientific developments.
  • Willingness to dedicate additional time for independent study and preparation of educational materials.

Benefits of Volunteering:

  • Gain expertise in environmental science, wildfire prevention, and disaster preparedness.
  • Develop advanced public speaking and presentation skills.
  • Build connections with professionals in fire safety, conservation, and emergency response.
  • Make a direct impact by educating the community and protecting natural areas.
  • Earn volunteer service hours and recognition for your contributions.

Apply Below:

This is a competitive, skilled volunteer position that demands the ability to process, retain, and present large amounts of complex, academic-level information. Applicants must clearly articulate how their background and skills align with the role’s requirements, particularly in handling and communicating detailed material from technical documents, research papers, and scientific reports. Applications that do not address these qualifications will be rejected without review.

We are seeking candidates who can demonstrate academic rigor, attention to detail, and strong public speaking abilities. Samples of past projects, presentations, or relevant volunteer experience are highly recommended to strengthen your application.