Parks Naturalist - Johnson Nature Center at Bloomfield Oaks

Oakland County•Waterford, MI

3d•$60,990 - $81,714•Onsite

About The Position

Oakland County Parks and Recreation is seeking an enthusiastic and engaging Parks Naturalist to lead nature-based educational programming at Johnson Nature Center - Bloomfield Oaks. In this role, you'll develop and deliver high-quality outdoor learning experiences that foster curiosity, environmental stewardship, and lasting connections to Oakland County's natural landscapes. As the onsite program leader, you'll oversee daily operations, supervise staff and volunteers, and create memorable experiences that encourage residents of all ages to discover, return to, and care for our parks.

Requirements

Possess a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in parks interpretation, outdoor education, the biological sciences or related field.
Have had at least two (2) years full-time professional work experience in a park's nature interpretation program.
Possess a valid United States motor vehicle operator’s or chauffeur’s license.
Pass the complete examination, including the employment medical, established for this classification.
Successfully complete the six month probationary period.
Must maintain a valid United States motor vehicle operator's or chauffeur’s license.

Nice To Haves

Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices used in developing and carrying out a diversified Interpretive Program.
Considerable knowledge and appreciation of ideals and objectives of a planned nature program.
Considerable ability to plan a budget, organize, coordinate and direct the activities and personnel involved in a well-rounded nature program.
Considerable ability to direct the preparation of exhibits for the environmental programs and facilities, establish and label nature trails, and give lectures.
Considerable ability to instruct groups in the fundamentals of natural sciences as applied to an Interpretive Program.
Considerable ability to speak effectively before a variety of groups interested in the study of park environment.
Ability to operate office equipment such as an adding machine and a typewriter, and considerable ability to operate motor vehicles such as a pick‑up truck and a van.
Familiar with current word processing, spreadsheet, database, e-mail and Internet software.

Responsibilities

Develop and lead engaging nature-based educational and interpretive programs for children, families, schools, and community groups
Manage the day-to-day operation of programming at Johnson Nature Center - Bloomfield Oaks
Supervise, train, and support part-time staff and volunteers to deliver exceptional visitor experiences
Create hands-on learning opportunities that promote ecological literacy, environmental stewardship, and connection to nature
Ensure programs, facilities, and activities meet Oakland County Parks' quality and safety standards
Plan and support special events, seasonal programming, and community outreach initiatives
Monitor program participation, evaluate outcomes, and use feedback to continuously improve visitor experiences
Utilize County software to coordinate programming, reporting, and daily operations
Plans and conducts organized lectures, answers public telephone inquiries and prepares illustrated brochures to promote public interest in nature programs offered by Parks & Recreation.
Confers with Park Supervisors regarding the physical maintenance of nature trails, various environmental program facilities and park vehicles.
Schedules and directs the interpretive nature program content, considering the park's seasonal attractions, special points of interest, and the Park Supervisor's guidelines.
Discusses and plans future interpretive programs and improvements with the Chief – Recreation Program Services to ensure commission objectives are met.
Conducts nature trail hikes, field trips, and lectures to youth groups to promote outdoor awareness.
Recommends to administration an annual budget for the park's interpretive program in order to ensure adequate funding for current and planned activities.
Surveys trails in the park to ensure nature signs and trail conditions are maintained. Designates new trail routes and locations.
Collects field data regarding the composition of the park's flora and fauna as well as unique features in nature for programming.
Writes trail guides and bird lists for the public's use on nature trails and in lectures and workshops.
Utilizes current Countywide and/or department specific software to complete assignments.
Assists in planning outdoor education workshops for teachers in order to promote professional development in outdoor education and instructs workshop sessions.