Assistant Nature Center Manager

MISSOURI DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION•Cape Girardeau, MO

2d•$52,932 - $66,060•Hybrid

About The Position

Develop and provide opportunities for all Missouri citizens to use, enjoy, explore and learn about Missouri’s fish, forest, and wildlife resources through interpretive programs. Supervise naturalist staff, coordinate public programs, lead the nature center volunteer program, and assist the nature center manager with the day to day operations of the nature center building and grounds.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Interpretation, Education, Biology, Forestry, Fisheries, Parks and Recreation, or related field.
Three (3) years of experience in interpretation, resource management, or nature center work.
Must maintain a current, valid driver’s license.
Ability to make independent decisions and act decisively on the determined course of action.
Knowledge to evaluate and analyze Branch programs and develop recommendations for improvement.
Ability to exercise judgment and initiative in interpreting Department and Branch policies and procedures and in delegating responsibilities.
Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with partner groups, teachers and school administrators, civic and non-governmental organization leaders, members of the news media, Department personnel and the public.

Nice To Haves

Supervisory experience preferred.
National Association for Interpretation, Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG), preferred.

Responsibilities

Recruit, hire, train, and supervise naturalist staff and volunteers; to include assigning work responsibilities, completing annual performance appraisals, monitoring budgets, and scheduling.
Coordinate volunteer programs, facilitate regular volunteer meetings and training opportunities for continuing education.
Develop, present and oversee special events, interpretive programs, school programs, and outdoor skills activities in person and virtually.
Assist the nature center manager with decision making in regards to staff, facility, and grounds and serves as acting manager in their absence.
Work closely with the administrative staff to schedule school groups, civic groups, and meeting requests.
Provide quality customer service including answering questions from the public on matters relating to natural history, Department functions, wildlife code interpretation, and conservation by phone, mail, email or in-person.
Manage and approve time sheets, contracts, purchasing card logs, and other required reports.
Assist with promotion of the Department and conservation thorough a variety of media including TV, radio, newspaper interviews.
Oversee and assist with work on native plant gardens, land/habitat management activities (invasive species removal) and managed hunts.
Serve on Department work teams, internal, and external committees.
Support MDC agency-wide priorities, including assisting with CWD management efforts, feral hog trapping, Comprehensive Conservation Strategies, Community Conservation Teams, invasive species (plants or animals) removal, and priority geography area management.