Story County - Seasonal Naturalist - Ames, IA

Posted 12/03/2025
• County Story
• Location Ames, Iowa
• Salary $16.00/hr
• Deadline 01/04/2026

Summary Description This position will offer opportunities to observe and participate in nature interpretation, environmental education and outdoor public programming. Naturalists may assume assigned tasks of increased responsibility. The position will start May 18, 2026, and will end approximately August 21, 2026. Work is performed under the moderate supervision of the Environmental Education Coordinator and Naturalist.

Hours will average 40 hours per week and may include weekends, evenings, and holidays.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Assists staff with organizing and conducting outdoor recreation and environmental education programs.
• Develops and facilitates nature camps (primarily for 4-13 year olds)
• Designs displays for the conservation center.
• Plans and leads indoor educational programs and outdoor classes for a variety of demographics as assigned.
• Maintains working relationships with other employees, volunteers, and the public.
• Attends mandatory safety training and staff meetings.

Duties may include attending professional workshops as assigned; caring for educational herptile collection; and performing job related tasks as assigned (i.e., administrative, supply maintenance and cleaning).

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age and possess a current, valid driver's license. Applicants must also have the ability to obtain a Class D chauffeurs license within two weeks of start date. Education and/or experience in nature interpretation and environmental education is preferred; knowledge of natural resources and basic teaching skills is recommended.

Employees will undergo post-offer, pre-employment background checks and drug screening.

Mandatory safety training is scheduled for Monday, May 18, 2026.

General knowledge of teaching methods and techniques; general knowledge of the techniques and methods used to instruct and educate students; general knowledge of the principles, methods and practices of environmental science; general knowledge of flora and fauna and associated management practices; some knowledge of proper methods of caring for animals; ability to operate standard office equipment and related hardware and software;

ability to maintain related records, reports and files; ability to prepare technical reports; ability to communicate ideas effectively both orally and in writing; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with community officials, associates, volunteers, program participants and the general public.

A cover letter and resume must accompany the online application.

Submit online application with resume and cover letter.