Naturalist (FT)

About the role

Connect people to the land, history, environmental goals, and sustainability of our property and foster deep connections between the public and our environment through the development, production, and presentation of high-quality guest and associate programs, special events, experiences, and other formal/informal methods that exceed customer expectations and advance the goals of the Montage Palmetto Bluff. Educate guests and associates about the environment, sustainability, and heritage related to the full extent of the property.

Responsibilities

• Show a strong customer service mindset and warm hospitality in interacting with all guests and associates.
• Develop and deliver educational presentations that exemplify a passion for Palmetto Bluff and the Lowcountry.
• Provide education in sustainability, geography, flora & fauna, topography, history, geology, culture, and marine biology of the Lowcountry.
• Share knowledge in a friendly, non-condescending, and clear manner.
• Work closely with the Conservancy and Landscaping departments to align/drive goals and communicate vision.
• Deliver frequent and timely running narration in front of small groups.
• Actively assist in locating wildlife or other sights of interest and share them with guests.
• Guide walking, biking, and other guest excursions.
• Assist in assembling and delivering conservancy and sustainability communications internally and externally.
• Understand and respect the many political and environmental points of view that guests hold.
• Maintain awareness of basic safety rules, workplace safety, and respect for the environment.
• Commit to understanding terrain and local flora/fauna.
• Create active involvement in monitoring and assist in implementing property-wide sustainability and conservancy initiatives.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Excellent communication and writing skills with the ability to explain complex or technical matters to people with little or no background in the area.
• Proficiency in MS Office with expertise in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.
• Ability to interpret and follow rules, policy, and procedures.
• Ability to maintain composure with courteous and professional demeanor.
• Must have the ability to interface and maintain effective relationships with all departments and employees in a highly diverse environment.
• High level of creativity and innovation in the development and production of programs to meet visitor and property needs.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to effectively interact with guests.
• Demonstrated interest in and commitment to nature and the environment.

Qualifications

• Preferred BS or higher degree or equivalent experience dealing with natural resources, marine biology, environmental education (or policy), botany, forestry, environmental geography, anthropology, history, or other related field of study.
• Experience working in a conservancy or sustainability-related field.
• Experience in educational and public program development, production, and evaluation; presenting public or educational programs and producing special events.
• Demonstrated ability to lead nature walks and educational tours.
• Luxury hotel experience strongly preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Position requires walking and giving direction most of the working day; must be able to stand and exert well-paced mobility for up to 6 hours in length.
• Must be able to exert well-paced ability to maneuver between functions occurring simultaneously.
• Must be able to lift up to 15-40 lbs. on a regular and continuing basis.
• Must be able to walk, stand, sit, bend, stoop, squat, and stretch to fulfill tasks.
• Must have finger dexterity to operate office equipment.