Parks & Recreation - Park Naturalist (Part-Time/Temporary)

Park Naturalist - $15.00/ Hour - This part-time, temporary position allows for a maximum of 1,000 hours per calendar year. It does not include any benefits. Duties: - Plans, develops, and conducts natural history interpretive programs and outdoor recreation activities at County park facilities and off-site locations, tailoring presentations to diverse audiences. - Assists with the operation of Love Creek Nature Center, including greeting visitors, answering inquiries, relaying messages, and explaining and enforcing park regulations. - Provides guidance and oversight to schoolchildren, volunteers, and temporary employees. - Maintains nature center buildings, restrooms, trails, and park grounds. - Cares for live animals and their habitats and constructs and maintains displays and exhibits. - Provides first aid and obtains emergency assistance as needed. - Demonstrates basic knowledge of mountain bikes and cross-country ski equipment, rents equipment, and assists visitors with selection and proper sizing. - This description is intended to illustrate the type and level of work being performed by persons assigned to this job. It may not be a comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities required by a person so classified. Education and Experience: - College coursework in biology, zoology, botany, natural history interpretation, environmental education, parks and recreation, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience. - Requires at least six months of work experience in a related field. Special Requirements: - Must possess and maintain a valid vehicle operator's license with access to a reliable vehicle throughout the course of employment. - Employees in this class must work some holidays, evenings, and weekends. - Will be required to wear a department-issued uniform while on duty. Required Knowledge and Skills: - General knowledge of natural history, environmental education, natural resource management, departmental programs and policies, Berrien County Park regulations and facilities, first aid, and emergency resources. - Skill in developing and presenting educational and interpretive programs, adapting presentations to diverse audiences, and constructing and maintaining educational displays and exhibits. - Proficiency in demonstrating and safely operating recreational equipment, including mountain bikes and cross-country skis. - Strong interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with co-workers, volunteers, park visitors, and community groups. - Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and perform physical tasks outdoors in varying weather conditions.