Now taking applications for Part-Time Naturalist

 

Naturalist Job Description

Ruffner Mountain Nature Center is seeking creative, part time Naturalists to teach natural science and social science programs, on an as-needed basis. Programs will be for school groups during the week. There will also be weekend programs for the general public.  

 

Definition

The Naturalist is responsible for teaching outdoor science and social science education programs to small groups of children and adults. The Naturalist’s goals are to encourage students' awareness and appreciation of the environment, broaden the students' knowledge of science concepts, and foster students' commitment to the protection of the

natural environment.

 

Supervision

The Naturalist works under the direct supervision of the Education Coordinator.

 

Duties

1. The Naturalist is responsible for ensuring that programs are taught according to the curriculum developed by RMNC staff and in consideration of the mission of RMNC.

2. Presenting weekend family and adult programs or coordinating events with guest presenters.

3. Conduct weekend programs for the general public. 

4. Assist Education Coordinator in the preparation of instructional materials relative to the interpretive activities as needed.

5. Arrive ½ hour to an hour before programs to set up and stay ½ hour after programs to clean up instructional materials.

6. Responsible for notifying the Land Manager of any safety hazards (i.e. fallen trees), and for closing any trail if necessary.

7. Public relations; including answering telephones when needed, greeting visitors, helping with the gift shop and answering visitor questions.

8. Conduct other related activities as assigned by the Education Coordinator including occasional animal care, working with volunteer groups or trail maintenance.

 

Qualifications & Requirements

1. Knowledge of Alabama plant and animal life highly desirable.

2. Knowledge of Alabama mining history highly desirable.

3. Willingness to care for a variety of animals including reptiles, mammals and birds.

4. Ability to memorize and recall facts, figures, and information.

5. Ability to move up to thirty pounds and set up equipment.

6. Ability to hike on trails, and traverse stairs and uneven terrain while carrying equipment.

7. Ability to make independent decisions and respond to immediate needs of students, emergency situations, and program needs.

8. Ability to work outside in a variety of weather conditions and temperatures.

9. Ability to work well with limited supervision and demonstrate flexibility.

10. Regular, reliable and punctual attendance is essential because of limited resources, costs, productivity and quality continuity.

11. Ability to interact successfully with supervisors, teachers, parents and students.

12. Fingerprinting for a background check will be required.

 

Skill to:

1. Instruct and supervise elementary-age children (grades K-6) in an outdoor setting.

2. Understand and carry out oral and written instructions in an independent manner.

 

Education, Training, and Experience:

1. Bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university with major course work in the natural sciences or related field, or three years of related experience, training or equivalent combination preferred.

2. Experience working with children in an educational setting preferred.

3. CPR and First Aid procedures. Current CPR and First Aid Certificates are required within two months of employment.

 

Please send resume and references to:

Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Fax: (205) 836-3960

 

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