NATURAL HISTORY BIRDING AIDE

Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission; Charleston, Northern (SC, KY); Hybrid; USD 19,000 - 26,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free park admission

Free admission to events

Free uniforms

Employee discounts

Job summary

Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission is seeking an individual to develop and deliver birding programs across Charleston County. The role involves walking tours, station-based interpretation, and tailored tours for groups, with data entry into a citizen science database.

The ideal candidate has knowledge of South Carolina birds, strong communication, and the ability to manage groups in outdoor settings. Some weekends and weather-related adaptability are required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; college coursework preferred.
• Knowledge of SC birds and local environment beneficial.
• Ability to communicate well verbally.
• Ability to read body language and manage groups outdoors.
• Ability to follow instructions and complete tasks.
• Ability to prepare clear written and oral reports.
• Professional presentation and teamwork skills.
• Willingness to obtain First Aid/CPR certification.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver birding programs at Charleston County Park locations.
• Record checklist data and upload to online citizen science database.
• Produce reliable content for interpretive programs and products.
• Assist with interpretation and natural resource management projects.
• Work outdoors in varying environments and weather; some weekday/weekend shifts.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Bird identification

Verbal communication

Body language reading

Outdoor work ability

Time management

Professional appearance

General computer skills

First Aid/CPR certification

Education

High school diploma

College coursework preferred

Tools

Online citizen science database

Job description

Job Location: Throughout Charleston county

Pay Rate: $16.75 per hour

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver birding programs including walking tours, station-based interpretation, and custom tours for groups at all Charleston County Park locations
• Record checklist data and upload the information to an online citizen science database and share data when requested
• Perform research to produce reliable and insightful content for interpretive programs and products
• Assist with projects related to interpretation and natural resource management
• Most programs take place in an outdoor setting and the ideal applicant will be comfortable in a variety of environments and weather conditions and be available to work weekdays and weekends
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Requirements

• A general knowledge of the local environment and natural and cultural resources of South Carolina
• A specific knowledge of the status and distribution of South Carolina birds as well as specific skills in identifying birds found in South Carolina
• Ability to verbally communicate well with others
• Ability to read and interpret body language of others
• Ability to implement appropriate group management techniques in outdoor settings
• Ability to follow instructions in an organized manner and complete assigned tasks to the satisfaction of the direct supervisor
• Ability to present clear, concise, and comprehensive written and oral reports
• Ability to manage time effectively, establish and reflect good work habits, and the ability to work independently as well as with a team
• Ability to accomplish tasks that require physical labor
• Ability to present oneself as a professional in the field of interpretation and conform to the CCPRC uniform requirements
• General computer skills
• Ability to obtain and maintain certification in First Aid, CPR, and Bloodborne pathogen procedures

Training and Experience

A high school diploma is required and college course work or a college degree is preferred. Experience in at least one of the following areas is required: early childhood education, biology, interpretation, environmental education/science or similar field.

Extra Benefits

• Optional State Retirement Plan
• Employee Assistance Program
• Free admission to all of our parks and facilities – not just the one where you work – and that includes beaches and all three waterparks!
• Free admission to a variety of special events.
• Free Uniforms
• Discounts on food, beverage, and gift shop items.
• Free use of rental equipment including beach chairs, umbrellas, pedal boats, bicycles, fishing rods, skateboards and helmets.
• Opportunity for growth and to gain skills such as teamwork, leadership and adaptability.
• Free admission at more than 25 participating attractions with your employee ID!