Nature Instructor

Frederick County Government•Fountain Rock Park - Walkersville, MD

5d•Onsite

About The Position

The Nature Instructor presents nature education programs and nature-themed birthday parties for visitors to Fountain Rock Park & Nature Center, including families, school groups, scout troops, preschool groups, and garden clubs. The role includes hosting the nature center, greeting and engaging with visitors, maintaining facility and program records, and helping keep the facilities safe, clean, and welcoming. The instructor develops knowledge of the nature center’s natural features and cultural history to respond to visitor questions, assists with marketing, and may provide direction to volunteers. The position is part-time and year-round, with work assigned during evenings and weekends. The instructor receives supervision from the Park Naturalist. No benefits are offered.

Requirements

Be at least 18 years old.
Have at least six months (two summer seasons) of work experience related to nature and/or environmental activities or studies, or an educational background related to teaching and/or environmental studies.
Hold current First Aid and CPR certifications for infants/children and adults, or be able to become certified within 60 days of hire; certifications must be maintained throughout employment.
Be able to enthusiastically and effectively lead and supervise groups of children in indoor and outdoor activities.
Be able to handle nature center animals, including snakes, amphibians, and insects, or be willing to learn animal-handling techniques.
Have a desire and enthusiasm for working with children and nature center animals.
Be able to organize, plan, and implement nature activities and day-to-day assignments, set priorities, and complete duties with minimal supervision.
Be able to evaluate emergencies and unexpected situations and respond promptly and appropriately.
Have strong spoken and written English communication skills, including accurate record-keeping and the ability to present programs to any age group.
Be able to develop and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers, children, their family members, and the general public.
Be able and willing to provide own transportation as needed.
Be available for assigned evening and weekend hours and events.

Nice To Haves

Experience leading programs on environmental or nature-based topics.

Responsibilities

Conduct nature-themed birthday parties and host the nature center on weekends.
Present nature education and nature craft programs during evenings and weekends. Topics may include animals, plant identification, hikes, geology, and other nature-related subjects.
Greet and converse with visitors to the nature centers.
Maintain accurate attendance and daily receipt records, along with other facility and program records.
Supervise nature center facilities during program hours and keep them safe, clean, and appealing to the public.
Report necessary facility maintenance to the Park Naturalist.
Develop knowledge of each nature center’s natural features and cultural history to respond to visitor inquiries.
Assist with marketing the nature centers to the public.
Participate in program planning.
Perform other related duties as assigned.