Job Summary

Under general supervision, the Assistant Naturalist assists in providing services at the Wapsi River Environmental Education Center. Provides educational, recreational, and resource management activities for the residents of Scott County and other visitors.

Job Responsibilities

Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class. Employees are required to be in attendance and prepared to begin work at their assigned work location on the specified days and hours. Factors such as regular attendance at the job are not routinely listed in job descriptions but are an essential function. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Utilizes knowledge of recreation, and natural and cultural history to provide education and information related to native plants and animals, including the Center's live animal displays, ecological principles, and natural resource-oriented/outdoor recreation activities.

Designs and maintains instructional programs, exhibits, and displays to include evaluating learning needs, program goals, priorities and constraints, teaching/learning activities, learner characteristics, subject content, and support services.

Observes, cares for the live educational animal collection; maintains animal enclosures.

Assists in natural resource management of the park.

Demonstrates the ability to exemplify, by his/her actions, the County PRIDE philosophy.

Performs related duties as assigned.

Standards for Initial Consideration

Education, Training, and Experience Guidelines:
High school diploma or GED equivalent and some coursework in Environmental Education, Natural Resources, or related field; AND six (6) months of experience in the development and presentation of environmental education; OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

Knowledge of:
Applicable local, State, and Federal laws, codes, regulations, and ordinances.

Ecology and outdoor recreation.

Animal husbandry.

Outdoor recreation activities.

Local natural resources and wildlife.

Work safety policies, procedures, and practices

Skill in:
Handling, working with, and caring for a variety of animals and wildlife.

Interacting tactfully and professionally with County staff, outside agencies, and the public.

Understanding, interpreting, and explaining conservation laws, principles, and practices.

Working efficiently under limited supervision.

Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships.

Communicating effectively verbally and in writing, including computer skills.

Supplemental Information

License and Certification Requirements
Must possess a valid driver's license.
Must possess or have the ability to obtain First Aid, CPR, and AED certifications.

Physical Demands and Working Environment:
Work is performed both indoors and outdoors and requires exposure to a variety of outdoor weather conditions and exposed to wildlife.

Benefits

This position is not benefit eligible.