Temporary Naturalist
Jerome "Buddie" Ford Nature Center

The City of Alexandria is located in northern Virginia and is bordered by the District of Columbia (Potomac River), Arlington and Fairfax counties. With a population of approximately 150,000 and a land area of 15.75 square miles, Alexandria is the seventh largest city in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Alexandria has a charming waterfront and is a unique and historic place to live and work. About one-quarter square miles in the city have been designated as a national or local historic district. We proudly embrace our rich history and seize the endless opportunities that lie ahead. If you are interested in working for the vibrant City of Alexandria, we invite qualified candidates to apply for our Temporary Naturalist.

Overview
In pursuit of service excellence, the Naturalist Recreation Leader II will greet and assist Nature Center patrons; conduct impromptu programs for visitors; prepare for and lead various nature-based programs; assist in the care of the Nature Center's live animal collection; and support the administrative needs of the organization. The Nature Center is currently accepting applications to staff the following program areas:

• Afterschool Program Leader (2019-2020 school year)
• Weekend Naturalist
• Weekday Naturalist
• Animal Caretaker

What You Should Bring
As a member of our team, you are accountable for the outstanding delivery of services to the community. You should bring excellent customer service skills and the ability to comfortably interact with customers of all ages and backgrounds. Your ability to plan and implement activities and programs for a wide range of audiences. You must have experience providing nature-based programming or with classroom management. You must ensure that all activities are fun, safe and orderly.

The Nature Center is a seven-day per week operation, therefore, your flexibility to work on weekdays and/or weekends will be highly desired.

The Opportunity

• Provide impromptu programs for visitors;
• Conduct nature-themed birthday parties and scout programs;
• Lead hikes and activities in the park on rough, uneven terrain;
• Help develop, plan and conduct nature-oriented programs and activities;
• Assist with the care of the Nature Center's live animal collection;
• Ensure safety precautions and guidelines are followed;
• Keep Nature Center clean and safe;
• Ensure all equipment and supplies are organized and appropriately stored;
• Participate in staff meetings and trainings;
• Perform front desk and administrative tasks;
• Other duties as assigned

About the Department
The mission of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities is to enrich the City of Alexandria by creating meaningful experiences through public space, cultural activities, and programming. The Department's vision is to improve the well-being of every person in our community by connecting them to each other and their environment. The Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities received national accreditation from the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies (CAPRA). National accreditation requires park and recreation agencies to meet 155 standards representing elements of effective and efficient park and recreation operations.

Minimum & Additional Requirements

High School Diploma or GED; experience leading similar activities and working in a similar setting, or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Must be able to lead daily hikes and activities in the park on rough, uneven terrain. First Aid/CPR certification or willingness to obtain it within 30 days of employment, and a valid driver's license;

Candidate must also be comfortable with the care and handling of live animals, such as reptiles and amphibians, or be willing and able to learn these skills.

Preferred Qualifications

Successful completion of college level courses in Environmental Science, Biology, Early Childhood Education; experience conducting nature-based programs for youth; some knowledge of local flora and fauna; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Notes

This is a seasonal, at-will employment opportunity, and is limited to a maximum of 1,500 hours per year. There are no employee benefits for retirement, hospitalization, or other benefits. Work hours may vary and can range from 0-40 hours per week.

Successful completion of a drug screening and criminal record check will be required