Naturalist Educator

Position Overview

Title:

Naturalist Educator

Category:
Part Time

Salary Range: $16-18 per hour

Summary:

The Naturalist Educator is responsible for delivering instruction, assisting in the development and organization of nature‑based curriculum, and providing periodic animal care. This part‑time position offers a flexible schedule but requires non‑traditional hours based on program needs, facility demands, and staff availability. Weekend and evening hours are required. Weekday availability to assist with the Seed to Sky Nature Preschool program may be required based on programming demands.

The position will average 12-18 hours per week.

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in education, biology, environmental science, or a related field from an accredited institution (preferred)
• At least one year’s experience in a nature education or recreational program
• High level of comfort with animals, including reptiles and invertebrates
• Ability to be flexible, team‑oriented, and work independently
• Experience working with Microsoft computer programs
• Reliable transportation
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities in a recreation, community agency, or school setting (preferred but not required)
• Current CPR/AED certification required or ability to obtain within three months

• Lead or assist with nature classes offered in the Park District brochure.
• Lead or assist with scout programs, nature‑themed birthday parties, family programs, day camps, preschool programs, curriculum‑based programs for school‑age children, and off‑site outreach programs.
• Supervise volunteer groups, managing the projects assigned.
• Plan, research, and present interpretive programming for a variety of audiences.
• Assist with development of new programs and teach independently.
• Assist with upkeep and care of Nature Center exhibits as assigned.
• Assist with live animal care for collection of reptiles, amphibians, mammals, birds, and invertebrates.
• Follow procedures and guidelines for prep time and class schedule requirements.
• Supervise Nature Center during Open House hours as needed.
• Attend scheduled Nature Center meetings.
• Learn and adhere to Park District policies and procedures at all times.
• Attend District‑wide trainings as required.
• Assist with Park District events as needed.
• Assist with various other Nature Center and Park District duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of a variety of nature‑based topics or the desire to learn.
• Confidence in public speaking to large and small groups or varied ages and abilities.
• Ability to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for young children while maintaining classroom control.
• Effective and efficient communicator.
• Excellent customer service skills (internal and external customers).
• Ability to work independently.
• Work well with all departments and personalities.

• Have a basic knowledge of all programs and special events, or know how and where to obtain the information.
• Assist all employees of the Park District as needed.

• Must be able to bend, stoop, lift items weighing up to 40 pounds, turn, sit, stand for short or extended periods of time, and walk distances of up to one mile.
• May be working with flammable materials for building campfires.
• May be exposed to elements when performing outdoor functions; must be able to perform duties outside in inclement weather and extreme temperatures.

• Must possess good communication and problem‑solving abilities and good judgment in keeping with the mission of the Park District.
• Must follow the loss prevention and safety policies of the Park District.