The Naturalist conducts educational programs in environmental education, nature science, and human relations for students, conducts hikes and campfire programs; and performs various manual duties related to center facilities, animals, trails, and supplies at an outdoor-education center.

Job Responsibilities

Typical duties may include:

• Presents instructional programs to students regarding environmental education, natural science, human relations, and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) curriculum by demonstration and instruction in a natural setting
• Obtains data and prepares training aids for courses in astronomy, botany, ecology, geology, hydrology, meteorology, mythology, and zoology
• Conducts hikes, tours, campfire programs, and craft classes
• Orients teachers, parents, and students to the outdoor education facility
• Coordinates instructional presentations with teachers and administrators
• Prepares and maintains exhibits
• Clears and develops new trails and maintains existing trails in sage conditions, including clearing chaparral, removing weeds and bushes, and cutting tree branches
• Feeds and cares for animals
• Assists in maintaining the center in a safe, clean condition and in opening and closing the center

Desirable Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have the ability to exercise group control and command the attention of students from 4th grade to High School. They will also have a strong understanding and love of the outdoors to stay positive and motivated. In addition, the ideal candidate will possess a self-starter and self-sustainable outlook in order to work independently as required. This candidate will have a strong knowledge of the relevant training and curriculum regarding knowledge areas such as Riparian Eco-System studies, Night Sky studies and Earth & Life sciences. Most importantly, this ideal candidate will be physically competent to complete the duties of the job as the work environment is not ADA compliant.

The ideal Naturalist will have knowledge of the following:

• A variety of outdoor education subjects that may include astronomy, botany, ecology, geology, hydrology, meteorology, mythology, and zoology
• Acceptable behavior required of students
• First-aid procedures

Minimum Requirements

Education:

Graduation from a recognized college or university with a bachelor’s degree preferably with a major in one of the natural sciences, education, or forestry. Additional experience conducting outdoor education programs may be substituted on a year-for-year basis for up to two years of the required education, provided that the requirement of a high school diploma or equivalent is met.

Experience:

One year of experience developing or conducting nature study programs.

Special:

Duties involve variable daily hours. Sleeping facilities are provided at the Center.

Special Physical Requirements:

Strength, endurance, and dexterity to participate in strenuous physical activities, including hiking on mountain trails and clearing chaparral and cutting tree branches. Safely lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds.

Benefits

Insurance: Paid premiums for your choice of several medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.

Retirement: Membership in the California Public Employee Retirement System (CalPERS).

Vacation: Two weeks of paid vacation to start. Three weeks after five years of year-round paid service.  

Paid Holidays: 12 days.

NOTE: Positions in this job classification may be offered on a 10 or 11 month basis - salary and paid time off for 10 or 11 month positions will be adjusted accordingly. Positions in this job classification may be subject to additional furlough days.

Interested candidates should visit LAUSD’s Talent Acquisition & Selection Branch site to apply