Assistant Naturalist - Fountain Rock Park

About the role

The Assistant Naturalist position is primarily responsible for leading nature/environmental focused activities at Fountain Rock Park & Nature Center. This position provides support to the Park Naturalist and may occasionally serve as a team leader when working with other part-time staff at the Nature Center and surrounding park.

Responsibilities

• Aid in the development and implementation of Nature, outdoor education, and environmental activities for the public
• Coordinate volunteer projects (Department events, Master Naturalist, Weed Warriors, etc.)
• Occasionally perform office support, handle cash transactions, and record-keeping related to activity and nature center attendance
• Create, implement, and lead nature-focused recreation activities
• Update Park bulletin boards for promotion of park and nature center activities
• Aid in the inventory of activity and exhibit supplies
• Care for resident animals of the nature center and maintain exhibits, as needed

Requirements

• High school graduation or the equivalent
• Minimum 1 year of work experience closely related to Nature Studies or Environmental Education (volunteer experience may be considered)
• Current certification in First Aid and CPR, or the ability to become certified before the program begins (certification must be maintained throughout employment)
• Knowledge of native Maryland flora and fauna
• Strong and effective spoken and written (English) communication skills, including accurate writing/proof-reading skills
• Ability to work with sensitive information and maintain appropriate confidentiality
• Ability to work with various groups/ages of people in indoor or outdoor settings
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and the general public, especially youth
• Willingness to lead various courses and all trainings/meetings as required by Supervisors

Qualifications

• Additional education related to Environmental Studies or Outdoor Education
• Master Naturalist or Master Gardener certification
• Project Wild, Aquatic Wild, Growing up Wild, or Project Learning Tree certification
• Experience as a Scout Counselor for nature-related badges such as Environmental Science, Birds, and Nature Study
• Wilderness First Aid certification