Naturalist

DESCRIPTION:

The Naturalist position is part-time, but all year round. This position is in charge of leading programs, summer camps, and field trips that cover various nature and historical topics, which could be done independently or with other naturalists. Creating and implementing new ideas is important for this position as well. Flexibility and a willingness to work with others is key.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITES include the following. Other duties may be assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.:

• Work with children of all age ranges and adults

• Hike trails with students in all types of weather

• Create curriculum for new field trips, summer camps, programs

• Research history and nature topics for programs

• Must have demonstrated knowledge of plants, trees, and animals

• Represent the Nature Center for public relations

• Plan, organize, participate in all special events

• Design and install displays in the Nature Center

• Must be willing to work some weekends and potentially overnight programs

• Attend all Nature Center meetings

• Must be comfortable handling and talking about a variety of reptiles, amphibians, insects and other animals

OTHER DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES
Other job-related duties as assigned. Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.
  
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT
 The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job:
 
 Subject to both inside and outside environmental conditions.

• Exposure to variable outdoor temperatures during all four seasons, various forms of precipitation, pollen, molds and insect bites.
• Regular lifting of light - medium - heavy objects weighing up to 40 pounds.
• Must be comfortable with and able to hike for up to 4 hours a day with students outside in ALL weather conditions.

 POSITION TYPE AND EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK
 This is a part-time position. This position occasionally requires long hours and weekend work.
  
QUALIFICATIONS:
  
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with Nature Center Superintendent and JPD staff and the general public. Ability to communicate effectively both in oral and written form; knowledge and experience with nature, education, and working with children. Must be prompt, responsible, and friendly. Ability to communicate and work well with other teachers, parents of students, etc. Must possess skills to maintain a safe environment, as well as performing high quality work.
  
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Must possess a high school diploma or general education degree (GED) and/or higher education. Must have experience in education in a formal setting and/or informal setting and have an appreciation for the idea of children learning through nature. Spanish speaker is a plus. Customer service experience is key. Must pass background check.
 
 Must have (or obtain within reasonable time) the necessary certifications:
 American Red Cross CPR/AED and First Aid

 
 This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee. The Joliet Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer