Naturalist

General Description/Summary:

Carpenter Nature Center is seeking an enthusiastic environmental educator who will assist with all aspects of providing high quality environmental education and interpretive naturalist programs under the direction of the Education Director. Carpenter Nature Center is a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit organization that provides preschool through 12th grade environmental education curriculum, plus public programs and events to 25,000 – 35,000 visitors each year. The Nature Center encompasses 725-acres of natural habitat along the St. Croix River with a campus in Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Key Areas of Responsibility:

• Develop, conduct and/or assist with providing high quality environmental education activities with groups of all ages and demographics, with a primary focus on pre-K through 5th grade groups.
• Conduct and/or assist with weekend birthday parties, scout programs and occasional off-site programs.
• Responsible for Carpenter Nature Center facilities in MN and WI on a rotating weekend schedule.
• Assist with daily and weekly animal care, including handling animal ambassadors in programs.
• Participate in the planning and implementation of events.
• Assist in building and grounds maintenance as needed (i.e. snow removal, empty trash, clean restrooms, etc.)
• Other duties as assigned.

Performance expectations:

• Ability to communicate with the public in a friendly and professional manner including excellent written, oral communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to conduct a variety of classes in an outdoor setting in all seasons, including winter and summer.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a team of staff and volunteers and also work independently.
• Positive attitude and willingness to be flexible. Reliable, punctual and ability to meet deadlines.

Required Qualifications:

• Experience working with children of various ages and abilities.
• Completion of criminal background check required for hire.
• Physical demands: Ability to work indoors and outdoors, and withstand the physical demands of the work which requires moderate physical activity such as walking, crouching, twisting, pushing, pulling, bending, stooping, reaching, sitting, carrying, lifting materials and supplies up to 40 lbs.
• Access to reliable transportation as neither campus is located on, or within reasonable walking distance, of a bus route.

Preferred qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree or Associates in biology, education, environmental education or related field.
• Strong familiarity with Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center programs and facilities.
• Knowledge of ecological concepts and ability to identify flora and fauna prevalent in the area.
• Experience with outdoor activities including, but not limited to, canoeing and snowshoeing.
• First Aid/CPR/AED certification.