The Frederick County Division of Parks & Recreation is committed to the highest level of care of our natural and historic resources while making the park facilities and recreational programs available to all. We believe that the benefits of parks & recreation are far reaching and vital to each and every individual, family, and community in Frederick County.

POSITION DETAILS:
Non-exempt; part-time year-round position; working up to 26 hours per week; assigned hours may include weekdays, weekends/evening hours and events; no benefits

This person will present educational programs to various groups visiting Catoctin Creek Nature Center (e.g. families, school groups, scout troops, pre-school groups, etc.) Assigned hours will typically be Thursday-Saturday 10 AM-5 PM and Sunday 12-5 PM , however some weekday hours will be required typically from 9 AM-1 PM during the months of March-June.. Direction may be given to volunteer staff; supervision is received from the Nature Center Manager. 

• Fountain Rock Nature Center
• Catoctin Creek Nature Center 

• Conduct nature-themed birthday parties as well as hosting the nature center on weekends.
• Present nature education programs sometimes using live animals at the park. 
• Greet and converse with the public as they visit the nature centers.
• Appropriately handle reptiles, amphibians and insects for programs
• Maintain accurate attendance, daily receipt records, and other facility/program record-keeping.
• Supervise the nature center facilities during program hours; keep the facilities safe, clean, and appealing to the public.
• Develop natural and historic knowledge of Frederick County Division of Parks and Recreation and its various parks and facilities, in order to effectively respond to inquiries from visitors.
• Perform routine custodial tasks, such as cleaning tables, floors, bathrooms, and animal enclosures.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Minimum age 18 years
• Minimum 6 months (2 summer seasons) experience related to nature and/or environmental activities/studies - OR - educational background related to teaching and/or environmental studies.
• Experience in leading programs on nature topics
• Current certification in First Aid and CPR (infant/child and adult), or able to become so certified within 60 days of hire

• Ability to enthusiastically and effectively lead and supervise groups of children in indoor and outdoor activities.
• Ability to handle nature center animals, including snakes, amphibians, and insects; or willingness to learn handling techniques.
• Desire and enthusiasm to work with children and various nature center animals
• Ability to effectively organize, plan and implement nature activities as well as day-to-day assignments, determine priorities and complete assigned duties with minimal supervision.
• Ability to effectively evaluate emergencies and unexpected situations and promptly respond in an appropriate manner
• Strong and effective spoken and written (English) communication skills including the ability to accurately complete record-keeping duties, and the ability to effectively present programs to any age group (with special aptitude for lively presentations of interest to children)
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, children and their family members, and the general public
• Physical requirements include the ability to load, unload and set up Nature Center equipment and displays, as well as the ability to traverse woods, streams, fields and other outdoor areas

• Experience leading programs on environmental/nature-based topics.
• Experience handling animals (such as snakes, turtles, frogs, or insects) native to Maryland
• Additional related education

• Ability and willingness to participate in program planning
• Ability to provide own transportation as needed
• Current certifications must be maintained throughout employment

EXAMINATION PROCESS (may include):

1) An evaluation of training and experience
2) One or more interviews
3) A pre-employment fingerprint supported background investigation