Naturalist

Direct Supervisor:  Education Director

Employment Classification:   Part-time, Year-round, Exempt 

Compensation:  $17.00 per hour

Schedule:  32 hours per week with flexible schedule options. 

Position Purpose and Summary

Naturalists are responsible for teaching school programs onsite, offsite, and virtually, as well as public programs such as live animal presentations in our trailside amphitheater, live animal outreach programs, afterschool programs, homeschool programs, lake cruises, and natural adventures for families. Education Staff members assist with exhibit design, develop education programs, serve on staff committees, complete independent projects to support education programs/missions, and organize/contribute to special events. 

Key Responsibilities

• Teach school programs, including programs at the Science Center, offsite at schools, and virtually, and assist in developing new programs.
• Develop and teach public programs such as Up Close to Animals, outreach programs, afterschool programs, homeschool programs, boat cruises, and natural adventures for families. 
• Teach naturalist sessions with Blue Heron School students as scheduled.
• Handle and present live animal ambassadors for educational purposes while ensuring the safety of animals, participants, and yourself.
• Close the Live Animal Exhibit Trail one day per week during May-October.
• Assisted with designing, constructing, producing, maintaining, and refurbishing educational materials/props.
• Assist with educational exhibit development.
• Serve on relevant staff committees.
• Contribute to and participate in SLNSC special events.
• Work in all weather conditions.
• Maintain cleanliness and safety of all program and office spaces.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree with a major in the natural sciences, environmental education, natural resources interpretation, or a related field or comparable relevant experience.
• Previous experience teaching in a non-formal environmental education setting. 
• Enthusiasm, motivation, a willingness to learn, and a desire to work with people and animals. 
• Current certification in Adult and Child CPR/First Aid with AED or willingness to obtain (recertification provided for all employees biannually).
• Able to receive a clean criminal background check before hire (as required by NH state law when working with youth).
• Licensed NH commercial boat operator or the ability to obtain an NH commercial boating license.
• Possess or obtain a valid NH Driver’s License. 
• Ability to work outside in all weather conditions, locomote long distances on uneven terrain and lift at least 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in an environment that includes exposure to zoonotic diseases and environmental allergens, including but not limited to dust, mold, pollen, live birds, live mammals, live reptiles, live insects, and other animals.
• A solid and active interest in learning and personal growth, including self-assessment and feedback from colleagues.
• Ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences.

Desired Qualifications

• Knowledge of New Hampshire’s natural history.
• Animal handling experience.
• Demonstrated public speaking skills and ability to communicate with enthusiasm.
• Computer literacy on a Microsoft-based platform.
• Positive and enthusiastic attitude.
• Good organizational skills.
• Ability to work well independently and as part of a team.
• Certified Interpretive Guide through the National Association for Interpretation.