A Naturalist conducts educational programs in environmental education, natural science, and human relations for students. A naturalist also conducts hikes and campfire programs; and performs various manual duties related to center facilities, animals, trails, and supplies at an outdoor-education center.

JOB DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

TYPICAL DUTIES:

• Presents instructional programs to students regarding environmental education, natural science, human relations, and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) curriculum by demonstration and instruction in a natural setting.

• Obtains data and prepares training aids for courses in astronomy, botany, ecology, geology, hydrology, meteorology, mythology, and zoology.
• Conducts hikes, tours, campfire programs, and craft classes.
• Orients teachers, parents, and students to the outdoor education facility.
• Coordinates instructional presentations with teachers and administrators.
• Prepares and maintains exhibits.
• Clears and develops new trails and maintains existing trails in safe condition, including clearing chaparral, removing weeds and bushes, and cutting tree branches.
• Feeds and cares for animals.
• Assists in maintaining the center in a safe, clean condition and in opening and closing the center.

NOTE: This is not an exhaustive list of the responsibilities of this position. For a comprehensive list of duties performed in these classifications, please visit: https://bit.ly/3TjjUYc

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION:

• Graduation from high school or evidence of equivalent educational proficiency, and successful completion of 9 semester units or equivalent quarter units of coursework, at a recognized college or university, in one of the natural or physical sciences, or education.
• Graduation from a recognized college or university with a bachelor’s or associate’s degree in the above areas is preferable.

EXPERIENCE:

• Six months of paid experience or verifiable volunteer experience in developing or conducting outdoor or environmental education programs or youth group activities.   
• An additional 3 semester units or equivalent quarter units of coursework, at a recognized college or university, in one of the natural or physical sciences, or education may be substituted for the aforementioned required experience.  

SPECIAL:

• A First-Aid Certificate issued by the American Heart Association or American Red Cross must be obtained within 60 days after appointment and must be kept valid during the term of employment.
• A CPR Certificate issued by the American Heart Association or American Red Cross must be obtained within 60 days of appointment and kept valid during the term of employment.

SPECIAL NOTE:

• A Naturalist will be provided overnight accommodations to reside at the outdoor-education center during their assigned work schedule, may be required to work variable hours, and supervise students during meal periods.

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

The ideal candidate has experience conducting outdoor education and environment education programs for school-aged children, both on land and on water. The ideal candidate has a passion for instructing topics related to Climate Change and environmental principles and concepts. The ideal candidate is a strong team player, able to foster great working conditions with both children and adults from various backgrounds, and possesses the skills required to maintain cordial and professional relationships when living in close proximity to other outdoor education staff.