Naturalist

Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory

Fall Naturalist – Seasonal Position Announcement

Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve is one of the premier fall bird migration sites in North America. Raptor migration research and education have been conducted at the site for over 50 years! It’s the western-most count on the Great Lakes with an advantageous location on a rocky ridge overlooking the western tip of Lake Superior. Annual fall averages include 63,000 raptors and 200,000+ passerines/other birds counted and approximately 3,000 raptors banded. Fall migration highlights include an amazing diversity of 15-20 different raptor species! The Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory (HRBO) in Duluth, MN is the non-profit organization that manages and provides bird research and education at the nature reserve. The fall research and education staff of HRBO are key representatives in HRBO’s mission of promoting conservation of raptors and other birds in the Western Lake Superior Region through research, education, and stewardship.

Education at HRBO is designed to complement and fulfill this mission with programs about birds and their environment, while building awareness and appreciation for bird conservation. HRBO is seeking Naturalists (full-time/part-time opportunities available) for the fall 2025 season for 9 weeks August 27-October 31. Full-time positions average 30-40 hours/week with a flexible schedule 5-6 days/week. Part-time positions range from 6-24 hours/week with a flexible schedule. 

Primary Responsibilities

• Teaching formal environmental education programs to groups (school, private and the general public)
• Teaching informal interpretive programs via education tables and kid’s cart
• Providing interpretation about the bird migration (pointing out migrating birds to general public, bird id tips, & sharing verbal highlights from bird migration research)
• Answering questions about raptor identification, natural history of birds, and the fall migration at Hawk Ridge Nature Reserve
• Conducting live bird education demonstrations
• Leading small group evening owl programs
• Assisting managers with visitor relations, merchandise sales, volunteers, & fundraising activities/events

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required (Science Education/Environmental Education preferred).
• Demonstrated teaching experience (2+ years preferred)
• Knowledge of birds, especially raptors preferred
• Driver’s license and personal vehicle required

Desired Experience

• Experience in working and teaching outside in many weather conditions
• Demonstrated animal-handling experience (preferably birds)

Essential Personal Characteristics

• Enthusiastic and passionate about teaching others
• Communicates respectfully and effectively with teachers, students, staff, volunteers, & visitors of all ages
• Flexibility in work hours (inclement weather, weekends, possibly some evenings)
• Ability to work independently and with team

Compensation: Hourly pay at $14.35/hour; lodging provided, if available

To apply for a Naturalist position, visit HERE. You will attach your cover letter and resume through that link. Applications will be accepted until filled (note: early applications are encouraged and preferred by Friday, April 25, 2025). 

For further information, please visit our website at www.hawkridge.org. For questions, please email education@hawkridge.org or call (218) 428-8722.