Position Summary: This full-time Naturalist position is responsible for the planning, preparation, and execution of environmental education programs for children and adults of all ages. Wild Compass Environmental Education (Wild Compass ) programs are taught at a variety of locations across the southwestern Minnesota region in outdoor and indoor classrooms and a variety of event locations. This position is expected to also support program areas, as assigned, such as: park maintenance and cleaning; animal care; volunteer coordination; and maintenance and creation of program equipment and materials.

Essential Roles and Responsibilities: 

• Implement Wild Compass  environmental education/learning outreach programs with naturalist staff, Executive Director, and volunteers
• Teach environmental education programs to preschool-12th grade youth groups, scouts, families and adults, including school programs, summer camps, birthday parties, community education programs, county fairs, and public events
• Responsible for all equipment and materials set-up, clean up, and follow-up with participants
• Master Wild Compass  curriculum and implement purpose, goals and objectives of each program daily
• Assist with the development and implementation of new programs as requested
• Work and teach both independently and as part of a team with staff and volunteers
• Create a safe and fun learning atmosphere for children while projecting a knowledgeable and confident image to parents and teachers
• Articulate Wild Compass ’s mission and project a professional and positive attitude with the public
• Assist in proper care and maintenance of animals, buildings, grounds, vehicles, and equipment
• Work with staff, volunteers, and Board to meet Strategic Plan goals and initiatives
• Attend and actively participate in staff meetings, key events, volunteer trainings, and other activities on behalf of Wild Compass , engaging with donors, members, and visitors 
• Participate in staff meetings, volunteer events, and other organization-related activities
• Other office duties as assigned, including mail, errands, cleaning, and general help

Qualifications:

• Commitment to Wild Compass mission and organizational goals and programs
• Bachelor’s degree or commensurate experience in environmental studies, environmental education, natural resources, education, or a related field
• Teaching experience in outdoor or environmental education, early childhood education, summer camps, or other relevant experience. Prefer minimum of 1-year of teaching experience.
• Knowledge of and passion for natural world
• Enthusiasm for working with children and volunteers
• Strong capacity in active listening, patience, flexibility, creativity, and solution-oriented mindset
• Willingness and ability to work outdoors in variable weather conditions leading participants over variable, rugged terrain for hours at a time
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Willingness to work irregular hours, including weekend 
• MN Driver’s License Class D required, or ability to obtain license.
• Current first aid/CPR certification or ability to obtain certification. 
• Criminal History background checks will be required. 

Compensation:

Hourly Rate: $18 - $20 per hour dependent on education, skills, and experience

Wild Compass  offers vacation and holiday leave. Qualified Small Employer Health Reimbursement Account Plan. Simple IRA Contribution. Wild Compass  supports state-wide and regional professional development opportunities for naturalist staff. Position requires a combination of on- and off-site program-based work. Office location: Lakefield, MN.