Interpretive Naturalist

General Description/Summary:

Carpenter Nature Center is seeking an enthusiastic environmental educator who will assist with all aspects of providing high quality environmental education programs under the direction of the Education Director.

Carpenter Nature Center is a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit organization that provides environmental education, public programs and events to 45,000 – 55,000 visitors each year. The Nature Center encompasses 725-acres of natural habitat along the St. Croix River with a campus in Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Key Areas of Responsibility:

· Develop, conduct and/or assist with providing high quality environmental education activities with groups of all ages and demographics, with a primary focus on pre-K through 5th grade groups.

· Conduct and/or assist with birthday parties, scout programs and occasional on-site programs.

· Responsible for Carpenter Nature Center facilities in MN and WI on a rotating weekend schedule.

· Assist with daily and weekly animal care, including handling animal ambassadors in programs.

· Participate in the planning and implementation of events.

· Assist in building and grounds maintenance as needed (i.e. snow removal, empty trash, clean restrooms, etc.)

· Other duties as assigned.

Performance expectations:

· Ability to communicate with the public in a friendly and professional manner including excellent written, oral communication and interpersonal skills.

· The ability to conduct a variety of classes in indoor and outdoor settings in all seasons, including winter and summer.

· Ability to work collaboratively with a team of staff and volunteers, and also work independently.

· Positive attitude and willingness to be flexible. Reliable, punctual and ability to meet deadlines.

Required Qualifications:

· Experience working with children of various ages and abilities.

· Completion of criminal background check required for hire.

· Physical demands: Ability to work indoors and outdoors, and withstand the physical demands of the work which requires moderate physical activity such as walking, crouching, twisting, pushing, pulling, bending, stooping, reaching, sitting, carrying, lifting materials and supplies up to 40 lbs.

· Access to reliable transportation as neither campus is located on, nor within reasonable walking distance, of a bus route.

Preferred qualifications:

· Bachelor’s Degree or Associates in biology, education, environmental education or related field.

· Strong familiarity with Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center programs and facilities.

· Skilled animal ambassador handler including invertebrates, herptiles and birds.

· Knowledge of ecological concepts and ability to identify flora and fauna prevalent in the area.

· Experience with outdoor activities including, but not limited to, canoeing and snowshoeing.

· First Aid/CPR/AED certification.

To apply:

Please send a cover letter, resume, and three references to:

Jennifer Vieth, Executive Director

Carpenter St. Croix Valley Nature Center

12805 St Croix Trail South, Hastings MN 55033

Jennifer@CarpenterNatureCenter.org

DEADLINE: 4:30 p.m. April 30, 2026

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $15.00 - $17.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off

Application Question(s):

• Have you fully completed your application by mailing, or emailing, a cover letter, resume, and three references to Carpenter Nature Center ?

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Hastings, MN 55033 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $15 - $17