Lead Naturalist

Position Purpose 

The Lead Naturalist position implements and develops interpretive nature/environmental education programs for the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization Friends of the Great Plains Nature Center (FGPNC). The Lead Naturalist position works closely with multiple staff to educate urban Wichita and surrounding communities about Kansas flora and fauna. This position will focus heavily on leading the development and delivery of educational programs for diverse audiences, see website for more information at https://gpnc.org/jobs/ 

Summary of Responsibilities 

• Present weekly interpretive and environmental education programs on-site and off-site for a variety of audiences (ages pre-K to adult).
• Collaborate with peers to lead, and/or assist with special nature-related workshops, clubs, and special events.
• Cultivate a culture of teamwork which includes mutual respect and individual initiative; collaborate with partners, staff, and volunteers to identify and implement best practices.
• Work with the team to maintain interpretive displays and live animals.
• Report on attendance, programs, and community engagement as required.
• Open, close and provide building coverage on one assigned weekday and some weekends.
• Ability to work approximately 15-25 weekend days for special events, animal care, building coverage and clubs.
• Miscellaneous operation and maintenance duties.

Other Duties as Assigned: 

• Obtain and prepare food for animal ambassadors, coordinate, and implement animal feeding and cleaning schedules.
• Create and manage interpretive content for website and social media.
• Welcome visitors to the nature center and answer telephones.
• Assist instructing National Archery in the Schools Programs onsite.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities 

• Knowledge and appreciation of the ideals and objectives of environmental education and interpretive nature programs and related recreational activities.
• Knowledge of mammal, bird of prey, reptile, and amphibian care best practices.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with other GPNC staff, volunteers, representatives of other organizations and the public.
• Ability to adapt quickly while public speaking or preparing educational programs.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Knowledge and skill in the use and care of tools and materials used in nature programs.
• Ability to teach and work with young children (pre-K through elementary-age students).
• Working knowledge of first aid and necessary safety precautions to be used in outdoor work.
• Ability to work outdoors and to traverse uneven, rough, and sometimes slippery terrain, lift 50 lbs. and tolerate airborne environmental nuisances associated with local wildlife preservation.
• Ability to acquire and maintain a valid Kansas driver’s license.
• Flexibility in working some evenings and weekends.