Naturalist

Job Description

The Naturalist 1 plans, develops and implements Outdoor Experiences programs to increase the public’s environmental awareness and concern for the conservation, preservation, and management of wildlife, plant communities and open space, through interpretation and outdoor education.

Essential Functions:

• Regular and predictable attendance is expected and required. All Cleveland Metroparks employees must be prepared to work flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, and/or holidays as required.
• Proposes, plans, develops and implements innovative educational programs emphasizing the natural, historical and cultural aspects of Cleveland Metroparks in support of the mission of conservation, education and outdoor recreation. Programs may be held at assigned reservations and off-site locations, and may include but are not limited to: community groups; special interest groups; general public programs; school groups; special events; roving interpretation; and programs in support of Outdoor Experiences and other divisions within the Park District.
• Communicates natural and cultural history, environmental and park-related information to the communities we serve, co-workers, peers and volunteers through personal contact, telephone, internet, park publications, social media, other written information and the media by utilizing the individual's strengths/talents in, but not limited to: Audio Visual and multi-media programs; original artwork and photographs; storytelling, puppetry, drama, or music; social media communication/writing; games and activities; handouts and articles; interpretive lectures, and outdoor recreation.
• Researches, designs, reviews and maintains interpretive exhibits and displays in nature centers, trailside areas and throughout the Park District. Researches, writes and develops text and recommends ideas for interpretive exhibits in cooperation with other Cleveland Metroparks Departments.
• Researches, writes, develops and reviews written interpretive materials, including brochures, newsletter articles, signage, social media and other assigned writings or projects. Maintains and submits natural history reports and nature center records.
• Participates in environmental research and special projects specific to each nature center/reservation that utilize an individual's strengths/talents. Organizes observations, prepares reports and communicates findings effectively to the Center Manager. Examples of special projects and research include ecosystem restoration, biomonitoring, bluebird trails and butterfly monitoring.
• Reviews program feedback and visitor input to continually improve programming.
• Participates in field training and related assignments: Attends in-services, conferences and workshops locally, within the state and out of state; serves as guest speaker for other organizations.
• Carries out duties and responsibilities in a safe and efficient manner to maintain a safe work environment and surrounding area for oneself, co-workers and public. Responds to hazardous situations and/or potentially unsafe conditions by taking corrective action as capable and promptly notifying supervisory personnel.
• Updates and enhances own knowledge by involvement in continuing education for professional growth (i.e., attends relevant conferences, seminars, in-service trainings, and certification programs.)
• Actively participates in long- and short-term program planning. Communicates to assure initiatives are compatible with divisional goals and Park District mission. Participates in District-wide planning, as directed.
• Inspects and performs light maintenance of nature center, surrounding areas and trails. Examples of such maintenance include, but are not limited to, picking up litter, window washing, and replacing paper products in restrooms.
• Performs related duties as assigned or apparent.