Interpretive Naturalist

Under the direct supervision of the Nature Center Manager, the Interpretive Naturalist assists with the operation of the Knoch Knolls Nature Center and the system-wide delivery of the District's environmental programming.

Responsibilities

• Provide an exceptional customer service experience and promote District services and facilities by assisting customers on the phone and in person.
• Process point of sale items, balance receipts, reconcile transactions, and prepare weekend bank deposits.
• Ensure confidential use of customer information, including credit card transactions.
• Develop and evaluate environmental education curriculum, prepare materials and supplies, instruct youth, camp, school, scout, and adult programs, and plan and support special events.
• Lead interpretive programs and create exhibits at the Knoch Knolls Nature Center and other District facilities.
• Communicate effectively with participants, guardians, and staff regarding rule infractions, questions, or concerns.
• Provide care for live animals including feeding and tank cleaning.
• Work closely with related staff to achieve the goals and objectives of the environmental education programs.
• Build and maintain working relationships with the Conservation Foundation, forest preserve districts, schools, and other community groups.
• Maintain and organize inventory of program equipment and supplies; report inventory in need of replacement to the Nature Center Manager.
• Maintain ongoing open communication and notify the supervisor of situations regarding the operation of the program such as broken equipment, equipment shortages, and facility damage.
• Record and communicate any difficult situations or behaviors to the Nature Center Manager.
• Provide guidance and direction to Nature Center Assistant and/or volunteers assisting with projects or programs.
• Monitor weather conditions before, during, and after programs to ensure the safety of participants and staff.
• Respond to all customer comments and inquiries in a timely fashion.
• Work in conjunction with staff to complete referrals to WDSRA and work with WDSRA staff to develop program plans for participants with special needs.
• Ensure that program areas are left neat and clean after each use and that materials and equipment are returned.
• Seek, interpret, and act upon input from residents and the public.
• Distribute written communication as necessary or requested.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Interpretation, Environmental Education, Natural Sciences, or related field.
• Minimum three (3) years of experience developing and presenting environmental education or nature programming, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Possession of, or ability to obtain, First Aid, CPR, and AED certification within two (2) months of hire.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Subject to office and outside environmental conditions.
• Subject to modified/flexible work schedules including weekends and evenings.
• Ability to lift, carry, and/or move objects weighing ≤ 30 lbs. on a weekly basis. Lifting assistance is required when lifting > 30 lbs.
• Regular onsite attendance is an essential function of this position.

Skills

• Working knowledge and experience pertaining to wildlife, natural history, and local flora and fauna.
• Ability to create innovative nature programs for audiences of all ages.
• Ability to share natural and cultural history information in a relevant manner with an audience or individual.
• Demonstrated ability to care for live animals and comfort with live animals, including snakes, turtles, fish, salamanders, and insects.
• Ability to work independently in day-to-day operations with general direction from supervisor.
• Ability to display professionalism with patrons.
• Ability to address complaints and resolve concerns.
• Working knowledge of basic computer software including Microsoft platform.

Benefits

For details on benefits, visit this link.

Pay

$19.00/hr