Naturalist

Position: Naturalist ($25.06/hour - $33.81/hour)
Are you passionate about the outdoors and nature? Do you enjoy teaching, leading activities, and working with kids? Inspire the next generation of nature enthusiasts by becoming a part of H.A.R.D.’s Nature Program!

About UsThe Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (H.A.R.D.) is an independent special-use district serving over 309,000 residents across a 100-square-mile area. Our communities include the City of Hayward and the unincorporated areas of Castro Valley, San Lorenzo, Ashland, Cherryland, and Fairview.

We operate two nature centers dedicated to promoting environmental awareness, stewardship, and a deep connection with the natural world. We're currently seeking enthusiastic and dedicated individuals to join our team as Naturalists.

About the Role As a Naturalist, you'll help lead nature-based programs that encourage children to explore, discover, and appreciate the environment. We're looking for individuals who are:

Passionate about science education and outdoor learning

Experienced in working with children and animals

Energetic, flexible, and team-oriented

Skilled in planning and implementing nature-focused youth programs

Position Details Open Positions: 2

Hourly Rate: $25.06/hour - $33.81/hour

Schedule:

Part-time, year-round

Hours:

Up to 18 hours per week Typical

Work Hours:

Between 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM, with some evenings and weekends

Status:
Hourly, non-exempt

Work Locations:
Various sites across the district; specific location assigned upon hire

Note:

Position not to exceed 960 hours per fiscal year (July 1 – June 30)

Start Date:

ASAPResumes will be reviewed as they are received. This posting may close at any time, so early applications are encouraged.

POSITION SUMMARY Under general supervision of the Recreation Coordinator II, the Naturalist is primarily responsible for curriculum, and programming development and implementation; and organization and maintenance of the instructional museum and interpretive displays/exhibits. In addition, the Naturalist is responsible for maintaining a clean, organized and safe office and program space as well as provide recommendations for supplies for programs and maintenance for equipment.

The Naturalist works with a team of Naturalists, supports the Senior Naturalist and provides direction and coaching to Naturalist Aide, volunteers and docents.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS Incumbents in this class are primarily responsible for interpretive programs at one of two nature sites, community events, outreach programs, and school sites (virtual and in person) throughout the county. The Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center (HSIC) focuses on salt marsh ecology and natural history and the Sulphur Creek Nature Center (SCNC) focuses on native wildlife and natural history. This class can be distinguished from the Naturalist Aide class as this has lead duties over the Naturalist Aide and receives direction by the Senior Naturalist.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Plan, schedule, prepare, market and implement interpretive programs for all ages in large and small group settings

Develop curriculum and materials that is fun and engaging for interpretive programs and displays

Organize and maintain a safe and clean program space and resident animal display

Organize interpretive materials and supplies

Report any repairs or maintenance needed on any equipment/tools used for programming

Enforcing safety guidelines, District policies and procedures

Recruit, train and oversee volunteers and Naturalist Aides Create training material and procedures

Assist with marketing and outreach of programs

Assists in the design and production of various interpretive media

Acts as HARD and SCNC representative at public events

Assists in planning and implementing resource management activities

Assis…