Interpretive Naturalist

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB • Gorham, NH

31d • $16 - $16 • Onsite

About The Position

The AMC is a conservation organization that connects people to the outdoors. The Interpretive Naturalist position serves a key role in AMC’s mission of promoting the protection, enjoyment, and understanding of the outdoors. The Interpretive Naturalist offers daily programs that are designed to foster meaningful connections to and appreciation of the nature and culture of the White Mountains. Through interpretive programming for lodge guests and visitors of all ages and backgrounds, the Interpretive Naturalist will provide high-quality, inclusive, and joyous experiences connecting people to the outdoors. The Interpretive Naturalist reports to the Experiences Coordinator and works 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.
The Interpretive Naturalist is based out of AMC’s White Mountain Lodges. These lodges are critical providers of safety, education, outdoor recreation, and conservation services to tens of thousands of visitors annually. Operated on and near public land, these facilities work in close partnership with the United States Forest Service and other state and local authorities to provide the highest level of service.

Requirements

• Exceptional guest services skills and demonstrated commitment to the mission of the AMC
• Knowledge of natural and cultural history of the Northeast USA, particularly the White Mountain National Forest.
• 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
• Ability to operate AMC vehicles and prove safe driving record
• Up to date Wilderness First Aid and CPR 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, evenings, and occasional holidays
• Work requires occasional backcountry travel. Requires ability to hike up to 8 miles per day on uneven terrain, carrying a backpack and other equipment up to 40 pounds, in all weather conditions.
• Ability to stand for up to 8 hours while interacting with guests and visitors, utilizing stairs to upper offices and basement restrooms and supply rooms. 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, scientific research, and green technology at AMC facilities and in White Mountains and Northeast more broadly. 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 the lodge, managing 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 contacts 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, backcountry conditions, Leave No Trace ethics, White Mountain National Forest opportunities and policies, backcountry supplies and equipment, and regional points of interest.
• 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

• Room & Board: Dorm-style room for $45/week – meals included, too!
• 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
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees