The Lead Naturalist position implements and develops interpretive nature/environmental education programs for the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization Friends of the Great Plains Nature Center (FGPNC). The Lead Naturalist position works closely with multiple staff to educate urban Wichita and surrounding communities about Kansas flora and fauna. This position will focus heavily on working with our animal ambassadors, see website for more information at https://gpnc.org/jobs/

Start Date: No earlier than July 7, 2025. 

Summary of Responsibilities

• Present weekly interpretive and environmental education nature programs on-site and off-site for a variety of audiences (ages pre-K to adult).   
• Collaborate with peers to lead, and/or assist with special nature-related workshops, clubs, and special events.
• Cultivate a culture of teamwork which includes mutual respect and individual initiative; collaborate with partners, staff, and volunteers to identify and implement best practices. 
• Work with the team to maintain interpretive displays and live animals. 
• Report on attendance, programs, and community engagement as required.
• Open, close and provide building coverage on one assigned weekday and some weekends. 
• Ability to work approximately 12-15 weekend days for special events, animal care, building coverage and clubs.
• Miscellaneous operation and maintenance duties.

Other Duties as Assigned: 

• Obtain and prepare food for animal ambassadors, coordinate, and implement animal feeding and cleaning schedules.
• Create interpretive content for website and social media. 
• Welcome visitors to the nature center and answer telephones. 
• Assist in instructing National Archery in the Schools Programs onsite.

 Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge and appreciation of the ideals and objectives of environmental education and interpretive nature programs and related recreational activities.
• Knowledge of mammal, bird of prey, reptile, and amphibian care best practices.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with other GPNC staff, volunteers, representatives of other organizations and the public.
• Ability to adapt quickly while public speaking or preparing educational programs. 
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Knowledge and skill in the use and care of tools and materials used in nature programs.
• Ability to teach and work with young children (pre-K through elementary age students).
• Working knowledge of first aid and necessary safety precautions to be used in outdoor work.
• Ability to work outdoors and to traverse uneven, rough, and sometimes slippery terrain, lift 50 lbs. and tolerate airborne environmental nuisances associated with local wildlife preservation.
• Ability to acquire and maintain a valid Kansas driver's license.
• Flexibility in working some evenings and weekends.  

Experience / Education

A bachelor’s degree in biology, botany, wildlife management, education, natural resources or related field is preferred. Two years of experience in environmental education/interpretation, or natural resource management is preferred. An equivalent combination of education, experience and training may be considered.  

About the Organization

All employees support the mission of the Great Plains Nature Center (GPNC) to provide opportunities for the public to investigate, understand and develop an appreciation for wildlife and the environment, while promoting sound stewardship of natural resources.  The GPNC is an established collaboration with City of Wichita, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks, and the FGPNC. Naturalists are at the forefront of executing the mission and joint annual goals of the Great Plains Nature Center, located in Wichita, Kansas. Naturalists work collaboratively with all staff to provide exceptional experiences for the public. Employment by the Friends of the Great Plains Nature Center will be offered to qualified applicants without discrimination as required by the non-discrimination statements of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks, and the City of Wichita.