Naturalist - INTERNAL

Job Location: Shepherd of the Hills Hatch Con Ctr (BRANS3)

Closing Date:
September 21, 2026

Interview Date: TBD

Our Culture:
The Missouri Department of Conservation supports a culture of trusted professionals that is dedicated to our mission, responsible stewards, and believe in One MDC.

To learn more about the job, feel free to contact the hiring supervisor,Alison S Bleichat Alison.

Bleich.govor atx
4503, during regular business hours.

We would love to hear from you!

Educate the public on fish, forest, and wildlife through a variety of media.

• Present educational/interpretive programs both on and off site for various audiences on a wide variety of conservation subjects.
• Deliver hatchery tours to the public, schools, and organized groups.
• Create and present new programs and interpretation material pertaining to natural history, outdoor exhibits, conservation and ecology.
• Frequently assist the front desk, interacting with public via telephone, email and in-person discussion.
• Assist in maintaining area landscaping with native plants.
• Routinely inspect and help maintain cleanliness of facility.
• Set up classrooms and required materials timely and order supplies and equipment, as needed.
• Help supervise and train volunteers and new staff.
• Ability to work Saturdays.
• Interact with public tour groups and individuals via telephone, email and in-person discussion.
• Oversee exhibit and program animals, providing care, feed, and maintenance for live animal displays including fish, reptiles and amphibians.
• Assist with department priorities, special events, and other programs, as n eeded.

• Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Fisheries, Forestry, Wildlife, Biological Sciences, Conservation, or related field.
• One (1) year interpretation and/or teaching experience.
• Must maintain a current, valid driver’s license.
• Interpretive Guide certification, preferred.

• Ability to use office equipment, such as copier, multi-line phone system, fax machine, scanner, and computer.
• Knowledge to identify most native Missouri forest, fish and wildlife resources and species.
• Ability to develop and present programs to visitors of all ages and backgrounds.
• Ability to operate various audio/visual equipment, i.e., AV carts, laptops, digital equipment, iPad, smart phones, etc.
• Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with partner groups, teachers and school administrators, civic and non-governmental organization leaders, members of the news media, Department personnel and the public.
• Ability to travel frequently and stay overnight occasionally.
• Ability to work varying shifts and hours.
• Holds self and team accountable for safety, conduct, performance, professional development, and public engagement.
• Models and upholds the Department’s Code of Conduct, ensuring professional and ethical behavior.
• Motivates, coaches, and develops team members to achieve organizational goals and maximize performance.
• Applies strategic thinking, planning, budgeting, and conservation business principles to decision-making.
• Demonstrates knowledge of Department policies, procedures, and supervisory responsibilities.
• Identifies opportunities for improvement, analyzes root causes, and implements effective solutions.
• Gives and receives constructive feedback while providing timely coaching and support.
• Sets clear SMART objectives, provides resources, and empowers teams to take ownership of results.
• Balances operational efficiency with effective staff management to deliver high-quality outcomes.
• Collaborates across diverse perspectives, communicates clearly, and fosters a culture of innovation, accountability, organizational values, and talent development.
• Demonstrates…