Seasonal Naturalist

About the role

The Maydale Nature Classroom, located in Cloverly/Silver Spring, Maryland, is seeking a Seasonal Park Naturalist to create original content and lead programs for the public.

Responsibilities

• Create original nature-focused programs for the public and private groups.
• Develop program descriptions for seasonal program submissions.
• Submit purchase requests for program supplies in a timely manner.
• Led programs with a focus on building community and making outdoor spaces a safe and rewarding place for all.
• Modify programs to meet the needs of participants based on their age, language, or abilities, and initial knowledge of the topic.
• Collaborate with the Maydale Nature Classroom Staff on other programming and special events.
• Attend Maydale and Brookside Nature Center staff meetings and provide input as requested.

Requirements

• A positive attitude, strong initiative, and exemplary customer service skills.
• Skilled in collaboration, adaptability, creativity, and problem-solving.
• Skilled in effectively communicating concepts so that others can understand them.
• Experience and/or ability to work and interact well with people of diverse backgrounds.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience creating and leading educational programs for a variety of audiences and ages.
• Knowledge of Maryland natural history.
• Experience with campfire building and campfire safety.
• Available at least 2 weekend dates per month for scheduling programs.
• CPR/AED and First Aid Certified.
• Ability to communicate in another language is a plus.

Minimum Qualifications

• A High School Diploma or GED.
• Two (2) years of experience in Customer Service, Education, or Interpretation, or as a Naturalist.
• An equivalent combination of higher education and experience may be substituted, which together total two (2) years.

Important Skills and Characteristics

• A positive attitude, strong initiative, and exemplary customer service skills.
• Skilled in collaboration, adaptability, creativity, and problem-solving.
• Skilled in effectively communicating concepts so that others can understand them.
• Experience and/or ability to work and interact well with people of diverse backgrounds.

Supplemental Information

• May be subject to medical, drug and alcohol testing.
• Works in Outdoor and Indoor Settings, may be exposed to inclement weather and outdoor hazards.
• Work is may be scheduled during weekends, evenings, and holidays and will vary from 2-8 hours per week based on programs and the candidate’s availability.
• Ability to lift 25 pounds and hike for 3 miles over uneven terrain.

Benefits Summary

• For Seasonal Intermittent Employees:
• Health Insurance Plans: Kaiser Permanente Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) with Prescription Plan, UnitedHealthcare Select Plan (EPO), Prescription: CVS Caremark Prescription Plan.
• Other Benefits: Sick Leave Benefits.