Assistant Naturalist

Fairfield County, Ohio; Sugar Grove (OH); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a dedicated team as an Assistant Naturalist, where you'll engage the public with innovative programs that highlight natural and cultural history. This role offers the opportunity to work primarily at the Wahkeena Nature Preserve, providing care for live program animals and developing educational displays. You'll also participate in community outreach, field surveys, and special events, making a real impact in environmental education. If you're passionate about nature and education, this position is perfect for you, allowing you to inspire others while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors.

Qualifications

• Valid Ohio driver’s license and/or CDL required.
• 2 years of experience in non-formal education or interpretation.

Responsibilities

• Plan and present natural and cultural history programs.
• Maintain and staff Nature Center during open hours.
• Assist with field surveys and natural resource management.

Skills

Natural and cultural history expertise

Public speaking

Partnership development

Volunteer management

Education

Associate degree in natural resources

Bachelor's degree in related fields

Job description

Fairfield County Park District is looking for an Assistant Naturalist to plan, develop, and implement creative and innovative interpretive programs and services. Assistant Naturalist will also provide expertise in natural and cultural history to staff and the public. Position is located primarily at Wahkeena Nature Preserve but may vary during seasonal closure of the preserve and/or as needed to fit park district needs.

WORK SCHEDULE: 40 hours per week, most weekends, and some evenings, varies seasonally.

• Plan, develop, and present creative and innovative natural and cultural history interpretive programs for the general public and target audiences
• Maintain and staff Nature Center during open hours
• Provide high quality care for live program animals and integrate animals into nature center displays and interpretive programs
• Participate in the development and creation of nature center displays and exhibits, self-guided trails, program booklets, and interpretive signage
• Explore new programming initiatives, develop partnerships, and identify new outreach opportunities
• Schedule outreach programs/field trips
• Work with volunteers
• Respond to inquiries from the public
• Perform field surveys and inventories of plants and animals; assist with natural resource management, invasive species removal, and habitat improvement projects as needed.
• Assist with special events and represent FCPD at various park and community events
• Maintain inventory of supplies, materials, and equipment
• Maintain organization, storage, and records of scientific collections
• Prepare, maintain, and submit records on time
• Perform other duties as assigned

• Valid Ohio driver’s license and/or CDL and insurable by park district’s automobile policy
• Associate degree in natural resources, education, environmental science, or related field and 2 years of experience in non-formal education or interpretation, or bachelor’s degree in fields listed above, or 6 years of experience in non-formal education or interpretation
• Ability to regularly lift up to 25 pounds and hike up to two miles.