Harriman Outdoor Steward

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB • West Haverstraw, NY

18d • $18 - $18 • Onsite

About The Position

Calling all outdoor enthusiasts! Join the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) in our mission to protect the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic Appalachian region, ongoing since 1876. Our values encompass diversity, inclusivity, trust, and respect for the environment. As an employee, you'll gain access to enriching programs, policies, and procedures that enable you to drive real change. If you're ready to explore, protect, and create memories within a dynamic community, apply now to be a part of the AMC team! Just 38 miles from the bustling energy of New York City lies Harriman State Park, New York's second-largest State Park. Boasting 31 pristine lakes and an extensive 200-mile network of hiking trails, the opportunities for outdoor adventures are limitless. At the gateway to Harriman State Park awaits the Reeves Meadow Visitor Center, ready to extend a warm welcome to visitors. The AMC is a conservation organization that connects people to the outdoors. The Harriman Outdoor Steward position serves a key role in AMC’s mission of promoting the protection, enjoyment, and understanding of the outdoors. The Harriman Outdoor Steward offers daily programs that are designed to foster meaningful connections to and appreciation of the nature and culture of Harriman State Park. Through interpretive programming for visitors of all ages and backgrounds, the Harriman Outdoor Steward will provide high-quality, inclusive, and joyous experiences connecting people to the outdoors. The Harriman Outdoor steward reports to the Harriman Community Hub Manager will be based out of AMC’s Reeves Meadow Visitor Center. The Harriman Outdoor Steward will work as part of a collaborative team of staff and volunteers. We seek a skilled educator and naturalist with energy and passion for the AMC mission to make the outdoors accessible to all.

Requirements

• Exceptional guest service skills and demonstrated commitment to the mission of the AMC.
• Knowledge of natural and cultural history of the Northeast USA, particularly the Hudson Valley Region.
• Experience with interpretive education and program development.
• Bachelor’s degree or related coursework in natural sciences or equivalent work experience.
• Enthusiastic and friendly when working with guests and visitors of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.
• Ability to create an emotionally safe and inclusive learning environment, create a positive group culture, and build healthy rapport with visitors.
• Possess a fundamental understanding of safe practices during hiking and outdoor activities.
• Be able to provide a safe driving record.
• Up to date First Aid and CPR/Wilderness First Aid Certificate or ability to complete the courses.
• Strong communication skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Team player, detail oriented, well organized, flexible, adaptable, and resourceful.
• Willing to work weekends, occasional holidays and travel to other AMC locations in the region.
• Ability to stand for up to 8 hours while interacting with visitors, carrying a tent and program bins to and from the building.
• Ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 40 pounds.
• 18+ years old.

Responsibilities

• Deliver engaging presentations for AMC guests and visitors on nature, culture and scientific research at Reeves Meadow Visitor Center and partnering facilities.
• Relevant topics include local flora, fauna, Leave No Trace environmental ethics, backcountry information, regional history, AMC conservation and research projects, community science initiatives, etc.
• Design and lead nature walks and excursions from Reeves Meadow Visitor Center, manage group safety on the trail while delivering interactive lessons on local topics.
• Set up and monitor daily natural and cultural history displays.
• Maintain existing materials and develop new interactive educational materials to engage visitors.
• Assist with promoting and maintaining AMC’s Junior Naturalist Program.
• Maintain daily record of visitor and program participation.
• Conduct visitor surveys to monitor the effectiveness of interpretive techniques and activities.
• Provide accurate and knowledgeable information to visitors on a variety of topics such as outdoor safety, trail conditions, Leave No Trace ethics, hiking supplies and equipment, and regional points of interest.
• Support Gear Library by pulling, organizing and returning gear at AMC’s Gear Libraries as needed.
• Collaborate with other AMC departments including Conservation and Research to present on and assist with current AMC projects and community science initiatives including iNaturalist, active conservation issues, advocacy and policy updates, and stewardship efforts.
• Actively promote and provide up to date information on the services and programs of the AMC while encouraging membership to support the AMC’s public service mission.
• Participate in other events such as AMC150 Events and local festivals to connect visitors to place and to AMC’s mission in an accessible, engaging, and inclusive way.

Benefits

• Insurance: Available with positions that are 6 months or longer and when working greater than 30 hours per week
• Retirement: Voluntary 403(b) Contribution
• Paid Time Off: earn up to 10 days of paid earned time depending on length of service
• Other Team Member Perks: 30% discount on AMC Merchandise Free Annual AMC Membership 4 Free nights at AMC locations Prodeals discounts on equipment & gear and more!

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level