Nature Instructor

Frederick County Government•Fountain Rock Park - Walkersville, MD

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Frederick County Division of Parks & Recreation is committed to the highest level of care of our natural and historic resources while making the park facilities and recreational programs available to all. We believe that the benefits of parks & recreation are far reaching and vital to each and every individual, family, and community in Frederick County. The Recreation Department seeks to enhance the quality of life of county residents by providing innovative activities and programs that meet the recreational needs of Frederick County communities. We encourage participation in a variety of recreational opportunities that foster enjoyment and lifelong learning. This person will present educational programs and weekend birthday parties to various groups visiting Fountain Rock Park & Nature Center (e.g. families, school groups, scout troops, pre-school groups, garden clubs, etc.). Assigned hours will include weekend/evening hours and events at the Nature Center and visiting local schools for the Nature Travels program. Direction may be given to volunteer staff; supervision is received from the Park Naturalist. Frederick County Government values the principles of diversity and inclusion, and strives to ensure equal opportunities for its workforce, applicants and community members. If you are a person who wants to make a difference, give back to your community, and be a voice for change, apply to Frederick County Government today.

Requirements

Minimum age 18 years
Minimum 6 months (2 summer seasons) work experience related to nature and/or environmental activities/studies - OR - educational background related to teaching and/or environmental studies
Current certification in First Aid and CPR (infant/child and adult), or able to become so certified within 60 days of hire (current certifications must be maintained throughout employment)
Ability to enthusiastically and effectively lead and supervise groups of children in indoor and outdoor activities
Ability to handle nature center animals, including snakes, amphibians, and insects; or willingness to learn handling techniques
Desire and enthusiasm to work with children and various nature center animals
Ability to effectively organize, plan and implement nature activities as well as day-to-day assignments, determine priorities and complete assigned duties with minimal supervision
Ability to effectively evaluate emergencies and unexpected situations and promptly respond in an appropriate manner
Strong and effective spoken and written (English) communication skills including the ability to accurately complete record-keeping duties, and the ability to effectively present programs to any age group (with special aptitude for lively presentations of interest to children)
Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, children and their family members, and the general public

Nice To Haves

Experience leading programs on environmental/nature-based topics
Ability to provide own transportation as needed

Responsibilities

Conduct nature-themed birthday parties as well as hosting the nature center on weekends
Present nature education programs and nature craft programs in the evenings and on weekends. Themes may include animals, plant identification, hikes, geology programs and other nature related topics
Greet and converse with the public as they visit the nature centers
Maintain accurate attendance, daily receipt records, and other facility/program record-keeping
Supervise the nature center facilities during program hours; keep the facilities safe, clean, and appealing to the public
Report and communicate with Park Naturalist any facility maintenance found necessary
Develop natural and historic knowledge of each nature center, in order to effectively respond to inquiries from visitors and others concerning natural features and cultural history in the park area
Assist with marketing of nature centers to the public
Perform other related duties as assigned