Naturalist - 20075462

State of Ohio • Huron, OH

23h • $24 - $29 • Onsite

About The Position

The Naturalist works within the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ Office of Coastal Management at Old Woman Creek National Estuarine Research Reserve, assigned to Erie County. The role plans and delivers interpretive programming, engages youth and the public in learning about Lake Erie and coastal environmental issues, and supports environmental stewardship, research, and monitoring in Ohio’s coastal wetlands. The position is permanent, full-time, based in Huron, Ohio, and is scheduled Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., subject to change. Work may take place near, around, or on lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams, and outdoors in conditions that may include inclement weather, venomous reptiles, infectious animal bites or scratches, and unpleasant odors.

The starting pay is $23.65 per hour, with multiple increases during the first 5.5 years of service, reaching $28.76 per hour. Cost-of-living adjustments may also apply, and longevity pay supplements begin after five years of state service.

Requirements

• Meet one of the listed minimum-qualification pathways: 18 months of training or experience preparing or presenting educational materials concerning wildlife and plants, plus one course or three months of experience in public relations, and a valid driver's license; or completion of associate-degree core coursework in natural sciences such as biology, botany, or zoology, and a valid driver's license; or 12 months of experience as a Naturalist Aide (classification 22540) and a valid driver's license; or equivalent qualifications.
• Provide transcripts for coursework, degrees, or educational accomplishments claimed on the application.
• Demonstrate minimum qualifications in the application’s work experience and education sections.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with water safety practices is advised.

Responsibilities

• Plan, schedule, and implement interpretive programs at Old Woman Creek National Estuarine Research Reserve and partner properties.
• Engage diverse youth in hands-on learning about Lake Erie environmental and water quality issues and promote clean water and environmental stewardship.
• Lead paddling programs for youth groups and the public.
• Develop and implement lesson plans on Great Lakes coastal ecosystems, invasive species removal, water quality monitoring and assessment, harmful algal blooms, and aquatic species in Ohio’s coastal habitats.
• Collaborate with school districts, conservation groups, local park districts, public and government entities, and private-sector businesses.
• Conduct field surveys and sample invasive and rare species and plant communities in Ohio’s coastal wetlands.
• Assist with stewardship and volunteer efforts to reduce the impacts of invasive species and support rare species and plant communities.
• Support monitoring programs, including water quality, phenology, and marine debris.

Benefits

• Medical coverage.
• Free dental, vision, and basic life insurance premiums after completion of the eligibility period.
• Paid time off, including vacation, personal and sick leave, and 11 paid holidays per year.
• Childbirth, adoption, and foster care leave.
• Education and development opportunities, including employee development funds and Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
• Public retirement systems, including OPERS, STRS, SERS, and HPRS, and optional deferred compensation through Ohio Deferred Compensation.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: Associate degree