JOB DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

A Naturalist prepares and presents instructional materials to students regarding environmental and outdoor-education studies, STEM curriculum, conducts nature hikes, and leads recreational activities related to outdoor-education

TYPICAL DUTIES:

• 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 safe condition, 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 has experience leading outdoor and environmental education programs for school-aged children, both on land and on water. They are passionate about teaching topics related to climate change and environmental principles and concepts.

The ideal candidate is a strong team player, skilled at building positive relationships with children and adults from diverse backgrounds, and possesses the ability to establish and maintain cordial, professional relationships while living and working in close quarters with fellow outdoor education staff.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION:

• Graduation from high school or evidence of equivalent educational proficiency, and successful completion of 9 semester units or equivalent quarter units of coursework, at a recognized college or university, in one of the natural or physical sciences, or education.
• Graduation from a recognized college or university with a bachelor’s or associate’s degree in the above areas is preferable.

EXPERIENCE:

• Six months of paid experience or verifiable volunteer experience in developing or conducting outdoor or environmental education programs or youth group activities.   
• An additional 3 semester units or equivalent quarter units of coursework, at a recognized college or university, in one of the natural or physical sciences, or education may be substituted for the aforementioned required experience.  

SPECIAL:

• A First-Aid Certificate issued by the American Heart Association or American Red Cross must be obtained within 60 days after appointment and must be kept valid during the term of employment.
• A CPR Certificate issued by the American Heart Association or American Red Cross must be obtained within 60 days of appointment and kept valid during the term of employment.
• Water Safety Instructor, and Lifeguarding, Certificates issued by an accredited organization are preferable.
• A valid driver’s license to legally operate a motor vehicle in the State of California and the use of a motor vehicle may be required for s

SPECIAL NOTE:

• A Naturalist will be provided overnight accommodations to reside at the outdoor-education center during their assigned work schedule, may be required to work variable hours, and supervise students during meal periods.