Park Naturalist jobs in Tacoma, WA

Based on our internal equity review process, the starting hourly wage for this position will be $16.65 per hour

Metro Parks Tacoma (MPT) is a CAPRA-accredited and AZA-accredited, independent park district that leads efforts to build a healthy, sustainable community.  Metro Parks Tacoma is located in Tacoma, Washington. The system is comprised of many different park facilities that offer residents a variety of recreational opportunities. From waterfront access to local neighborhood parks to large regional facilities and attractions, the MPT system is both a local community asset and regional destination.
 
OUR CORE VALUES
These eight core values will guide future decisions, business and operations, and the manner in which MPT treats staff, customers and the community:
•Innovation •Excellence •Equity •Inclusiveness •Sustainability •Accountability •Safety •Fun

NORTHWEST TREK WILDLIFE PARK
Northwest Trek Wildlife Park is dedicated to conservation, education and recreation by displaying, interpreting, and researching native Northwest wildlife and their natural habitats. The 725-acre zoological park was established in 1975 and attracts over 200,000 visitors annually. It is nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), which ensures rigorously high standards of animal welfare, veterinary care, conservation, education and more. Northwest Trek is operated by Metro Parks Tacoma, the oldest independent park district in Washington. For more information, visit www.nwtrek.org.

POSITION INFORMATION 

Under the direction of Lead Naturalist, provide assistance in tram and tour station operations and interpretive programs; develop, conduct and narrate tours and presentations related to park wildlife, plants and facilities; provide quality recreational and educational experiences to visitors.

In the performance of their respective tasks and duties all employees are expected to conform to the following:

• Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.
• Interact professionally with other employees, customers and suppliers.
• Work effectively as a team contributor on all assignments.
• Work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.
• Observe applicable safety requirements, use safety equipment provided, implement appropriate safety practices at all times and report immediately any unsafe working conditions or hazards.

• Present engaging and entertaining interpretive programs to the visiting public about native Northwest animals and plants.
• Provide thematic interpretive programming aboard a tram while being driven through a 435-acre free-roaming animal exhibit, and driving a multi-car tram.
•  Ability to drive and interpret at the same time and be on a tram for multiple tours per day.
• Operate a motor vehicle while leading or assisting with Wild Drive tours.
• Inspect and conduct thorough routine cleaning of the trams and facilities
• Staff the Tram Tour Station.
• Interpret the Cheney Discovery Center, Baker Research Cabin, Education Program Carts and Core Area exhibits.
• Participate in special event related education activities and programs, and family camps.
• Other duties as required.

• Education or equivalent experience in interpretation, natural sciences, education, or related field required.
• Must have the desire to work with large groups of children and adults.
• Must be customer service oriented.
• Must have a positive, cheerful and professional attitude.
• Must be able to speak and hear in order to communicate in person and via a two-way radio.   
• Submission of a valid driver's license and acceptable driving record are required.