Outdoor Naturalist & Public Programs Lead

State of Ohio; Kentucky; On-site; USD 33,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is seeking a Naturalist to join Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve in Hocking County. This full-time role emphasizes interpretation, education, and public engagement across preserves, with outdoor fieldwork and varied hours.

Responsibilities include developing materials, coordinating events, and serving as the primary visitor contact. A background in natural resources and strong communication skills are essential; an associate degree in natural sciences is

Qualifications

• 18 mos. trg. or 18 mos. exp. in preparing/presenting educational materials concerning wildlife & plants; 1 course or 3 mos. exp. in public relations; valid driver’s license.
• Or completion of associate degree core coursework in natural sciences; valid driver’s license.
• Or 12 mos. exp. as Naturalist Aide, 22540; valid driver’s license.
• Or equivalent of Minimum Class Qualifications for Employment noted above.

Responsibilities

• Plan, conduct & schedule interpretive programs at State Nature Preserves (e.g., Boch Hollow, Kessler Swamp, Shallenberger, Christmas Rocks, Rockbridge, Conkles Hollow) & other sites for K-12 school groups, as well as interest groups & the general public.
• Develop interpretive informational materials including slide illustrated lectures, videos, signage, fact sheets, pamphlets, handouts & brochures & displays about Ohio's ecology & geology, tied to State of Ohio K-12 education standards.
• Develop engaging content for Division social media & articles for print media for local newspapers, magazines & internal communication.
• Serve as the primary contact with preserve visitors: advise visitors of preserve rules & regulations, respond to inquiries via telephone, email, social media & in person.
• Coordinate & staff special events & outreach opportunities, including the Ohio State Fair.
• Participate in ecological management activities to control invasive species (hand pulling, mechanical removal, herbicide, prescribed fire) outdoors.
• Conduct field surveys & sampling of invasive species, rare species & plant communities within Nature Preserves, including collecting & identifying specimens, mapping occurrences & documenting findings.
• Assist with local volunteer efforts, recruiting volunteers, coordinating work projects, and organizing volunteer help for interpretive programs & invasive plant control.

Skills

Natural Resources

Communications

Education

Adaptability

Attention to Detail

Education

Associate degree in natural sciences

Job description

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is seeking a Naturalist to join Boch Hollow State Nature Preserve in Hocking County. This full-time role emphasizes interpretation, education, and public engagement across preserves, with outdoor fieldwork and varied hours.

Responsibilities include developing materials, coordinating events, and serving as the primary visitor contact. A background in natural resources and strong communication skills are essential; an associate degree in natural sciences is