Assistant Naturalist

Polk-County,-Ia; Jefferson Township (IA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

Polk County, IA is seeking an Environmental Education Coordinator to develop and implement environmental education programs and seasonal activities for schools and the public.

The role involves coordinating outdoor recreation and interpretive programs, assisting with exhibits, and planning activities related to conservation and natural heritage. Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays is required.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of modern trends in conservation and environmental education.
• Experience in teaching outdoor skills.
• Knowledge of information dissemination and public speaking.
• Ability to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, holidays, and irregular hours.
• Ability to read, write, edit, and communicate effectively in various formats including public speaking.

Responsibilities

• Develops, coordinates, and conducts environmental education and outdoor recreation programs for schools, civic and youth groups and the general public.
• Assists with maintenance and construction for indoor and outdoor exhibits, including live animal displays.
• Plans audience-appropriate educational programs related to natural resource management, conservation, ecology, and cultural heritage.
• Maintains records on programs and displays.
• Assists with development, coordination, and implementation of special events and extended programs.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

Skills

Knowledge of conservation and outdoor/

Public speaking

Reading/writing communication

Adaptability to dynamic environments

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in environmental education, interpretation, recreation, ecology, or related earth science

Six months experience in environmental education presentation

Equivalent combination of training/experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

Web calendars

Email

Audio-visual equipment

Website programs

Job description

Under general supervision of the Environmental Education Coordinator, implements and develops environmental education programs and seasonal activities.

1. Develops, coordinates, and conducts environmental education and outdoor recreational and interpretive programs for schools, civic groups, youth groups, and the general public.
2. Assists with maintenance and construction for indoor and outdoor exhibits, including live animal displays.
3. Plans audience appropriate educational programs and activities related to natural resource management, conservation, ecology, recreation, cultural heritage, and other environmental topics.
4. Maintains records on programs and displays.
5. Assists with the development, coordination, and implementation of special events and extended programs.
6. Performs related duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of modern trends in conservation and environmental education.
• Knowledge of information dissemination, methods of communicating, and public speaking.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of conservation, ecology, interpretation, and Iowa's natural heritage.
• Experience in teaching outdoor skills.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office, web-based calendars, email, audio-visual equipment, and website programs.
• Ability to work flexible hours including evenings, weekends, holidays, and irregular hours
• Ability to read, write, edit, and communicate effectively in a variety of methods, including public speaking and program delivery.
• Ability to work independently and demonstrate a good work ethic.
• Ability to adapt in a very dynamic work setting.
• Ability to frequently lift up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to work in a variety of weather conditions and walk or stand for prolonged periods.
• Ability to establish and maintain satisfactory working relationships with supervisors, other County employees, volunteers, and the general public using courtesy, patience, and tact.

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in environmental education, interpretation, recreation, ecology, or related earth biological science, and
• Six months experience in development and presentation of environmental education programs, or
• Any equivalent combination of training and experience that will have provided the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Special Requirements

Part-Time Positions:

• A criminal background check is required.
• A valid State of Iowa driver's license is required.
• Candidate must pass a post-employment offer physical examination and physical capacity testing to ensure the candidate meets the essential physical requirements of the position.
• A drug screen is required.
• CPR/AED and First Aid certification is required within six months.

On-Call and Seasonal Position:

• A criminal background check is required.
• A valid State of Iowa driver's license is required.
• CPR/AED and First Aid certification is required within six months.