Interpretive Naturalist – Pinkham Notch

Locations:          Joe Dodge Lodge, Appalachian Mountain Club, Pinkham Notch, NH

Ready to dive into epic outdoor adventures and make a positive impact on the environment? Look no further than the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) – the oldest conservation, education, and recreation organization in the USA! Our passion for the outdoors knows no bounds, and we want YOU to be a part of it. As an employee, you’ll unlock access to exciting programs, policies, and procedures that empower you to make a real difference. Join the AMC team now and embark on the journey of a lifetime!

Summary Description

The AMC is a conservation organization that connects people to the outdoors and the Interpretive Naturalist position serves a key role in AMC’s mission of promoting the protection, enjoyment, and understanding of the outdoors. The Interpretive Naturalist offers daily programs designed to engage participants in fostering meaningful connections and appreciation of local natural and cultural heritage of the White Mountains. Through interpretive programming for lodge guests and visitors of all ages and backgrounds, the Interpretive Naturalist will provide high-quality, inclusive, and joyous experiences connecting people to the outdoors. The interpretive naturalist reports to the Experiences Coordinator and works as a part of a collaborative team of staff and volunteers. We seek a skilled Interpretive Naturalist and energetic person that shares a passion for the AMC mission to make the outdoors accessible to all.

The Interpretive Naturalist is based out of AMC’s White Mountain Lodges, critical providers of safety, education, outdoor recreation, and conservation services to tens of thousands of visitors annually. Operated on and near public land, these facilities work in close partnership with the United States Forest Service and other state and local authorities to provide the highest level of service.

What you’ll be doing at AMC

• Deliver engaging presentations for AMC guests and visitors on local natural and cultural history of the White Mountains and Northeast. Relevant topics include local flora, fauna, Leave No Trace environmental ethics, backcountry information, regional history, AMC conservation and research projects, community science initiatives, etc.
• Lead nature walks from the lodge, managing group safety on the trail while delivering an interactive lesson on local topics.
• Set up and monitor daily natural and cultural history displays. Maintain existing materials and develop new interactive educational materials to engage visitors on a one on one or self-guided basis.
• Assist with promoting and maintaining AMC’s Junior Naturalist Program.
• Maintain daily record of visitor contacts and program participation. Conduct visitor surveys to monitor the effectiveness of interpretive techniques and activities.
• Provide accurate and knowledgeable information to visitors on a variety of topics such as outdoor safety, backcountry conditions, Leave No Trace ethics, White Mountain National Forest opportunities and policies, backcountry supplies and equipment, and regional points of interest.
• Collaborate with other AMC departments including Conservation and Research to present current AMC projects and community science initiatives including iNaturalist, active conservation issues, advocacy and policy updates, and stewardship efforts.
• Actively promote and provide up to date information on the services and programs of the AMC while encouraging membership to support the AMC’s public service mission.

What AMC is looking for

• Exceptional guest services skills and demonstrated commitment to the mission of the AMC
• Knowledge of natural and cultural history of the Northeast USA, particularly the White Mountain National Forest.
• Experience with interpretive education and program development
• Bachelor’s degree or related coursework in natural sciences or equivalent work experience

• Enthusiastic and friendly when working with guests and visitors of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.
• Ability to create an emotionally safe and inclusive learning environment, create a positive group culture, and build healthy rapport with visitors
• Possess a fundamental understanding of safe practices during hiking and outdoor activities.
• Ability to operate AMC vehicles and prove safe driving record.
• Up to date Wilderness First Aid and CPR or ability to complete the courses.
• Strong communication skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite
• Team player, detail oriented, well organized, flexible, adaptable, and resourceful.
• Work requires occasional backcountry travel. Requires ability to hike up to 4 miles per day on uneven terrain, carrying a backpack and other equipment up to 40 pounds, in all weather conditions
• Ability to stand for up to 8 hours while interacting with guests and visitors, utilizing stairs to upper offices and basement restrooms and supply rooms. Ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 40 pounds.
• 18+ years old

What AMC Can Offer You

Salary Range: $16.00/hour

We are committed to fair compensation practices, and we encourage qualified candidates to apply. The initial salary represents our starting point, and our compensation philosophy is designed to reward and recognize the contributions of our employees as they grow within the organization. External candidates typically begin their journey with us at the starting point of the salary range. The final compensation offer will be based on factors such as experience, education, skills and geographic differential relevant to the position, and will be discussed during the interview process.

Benefits

• Room & Board: Dorm-style room for $45/week – meals included, too!
• Insurance: Available with positions that are 6 months or longer and when working greater than 32 hours per week
• Retirement: Voluntary 403(b) Contribution
• Paid Time Off: earn up to 10 days of paid earned time depending on length of service

Other Team Member Perks:

• 30% discount on AMC Merchandise
• Free Annual AMC Membership
• 4 Free nights at AMC locations
• Prodeals discounts on equipment & gear and more!