Newfound Center Naturalist

TITLE: Newfound Center Naturalist

LOCATION: Paradise Point Nature Center, Hebron, NH 

HOURS: 28 hours per week, non-exempt (hourly paid). Hours will vary depending on Center needs. 

SCHEDULE: Seasonal position, May 11 – September 8, 2026, possible hours available starting early May for Center preparations advance of opening and after the end date to help clean the center. Anticipated schedule: Weekends, Monday, and Tuesday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with some evening hours and possibility of overnight hours occasionally.

FUNCTION: This position is based out of Paradise Point Nature Center, part of the Newfound Audubon Center, an assembly of three wildlife sanctuaries (Paradise Point, Hebron Marsh, and Bear Mountain) located on the beautiful north shore of Newfound Lake in Hebron, NH. It will support New Hampshire Audubon’s mission, to protect New Hampshire’s natural environment for wildlife and for people, by aiding in boat rentals and program coordination/delivery to area residents, visitors, and camp groups.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:  

Programming & Exhibits – 60% 

• Spearheading program promotion, marketing, and facilitation of regularly occurring public programs at Paradise Point
• Marketing and facilitating interpretive hikes and hands-on discovery activities for children, adults, and families
• Assisting with the facilitation of the Newfound Nature Series Tuesday evenings
• Leading canoe tours and guided paddles on Newfound Lake
• Planning and implementing outreach naturalist programs
• Maintaining and updating exhibits for the Newfound Center
• Organizing, maintaining, and inventorying education program equipment

Boat & Trail Maintenance – 30% 

• Assist visitors with boat rentals including payment processing
• Reporting and/or performing basic trail maintenance as needed
• Organizing, maintaining, and inventorying boating equipment (PFDs, paddles, etc.)

Miscellaneous – 10% 

• Assisting with upkeep of freshwater fish tank
• Will supervise front desk for approximately one hour per day
• May be asked to assist in general center maintenance tasks
• Other duties as assigned

LEADERSHIP: Reports to the Director of Education 

WORKING CONDITIONS: NH Audubon’s work culture is characterized by excellent colleagues who share a collaborative spirit, commitment to mission, open communication, and high integrity.  Paradise Point is a non-smoking environment. Expected to work in indoor & outdoor settings with varied terrain. 

QUALIFICATIONS:  

Education: Some higher education coursework completed in adventure education, environmental education, conservation, biology, natural history, or related field required; bachelor’s degree preferred. 

Experience: Two years’ experience working with the general public in situations requiring an array of different skills with demonstrated ability to make independent and coordinated decisions. Must have ARC or AHA Standard First Aid certification and CPR certification or equivalent, or willingness to obtain certifications prior to the start of employment.

Interpretive and public speaking experience is a plus, along with canoe and kayak paddling experience. ARC First Responder or Lifeguard certification or equivalent desirable. Knowledge of natural sciences is a plus, especially in ornithology, ecology, biology, geology, or other related fields. 

Skills, Traits and Characteristics Necessary for Success: Requires exceptional interpersonal skills, attention to detail, good problem-solving skills, and a high degree of organization. Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to develop a good rapport with the public is a must. The candidate should have the ability to prioritize and complete work tasks on time in a complex and dynamic workflow, a positive attitude, excellent customer service skills, and the ability to work independently. Must pass a criminal background check. Access to reliable personal transportation is a necessity.

Physical Demands: To perform the essential functions of the position, the following is required: standing, stretching, bending, walking, and lifting about 50 lbs. (transporting and handling canoes and kayaks down steep slopes). Must be able to climb stairs and navigate outdoor trails which include steep and rocky terrain and a lake environment. Must be physically and mentally capable of performing multiple tasks under pressure and be able to function in a fast-paced environment both indoors and outdoors. The ability to participate in moderately active programming including hiking, kayaking, and canoeing is necessary.     

COMPENSATION: Compensation for this seasonal, hourly position is $18 – $20 an hour; commensurate with experience.  This position also includes a free NH Audubon annual membership and access to pro deals. 

EQUAL EMPLOYEMENT OPPORTUNITY: NH Audubon is a welcoming inclusive organization committed to ensuring people of all backgrounds and abilities are welcome and respected. NH Audubon provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, marital status, age, sexual orientation or Vietnam Era/Disabled Veteran status, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, NH Audubon complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location where NH Audubon has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.