Naturalist, School Programs

Cincinnati Nature Center is excited to welcome new team members to our quirky crew of part-time naturalists for the 2026-2027 school year! These fun folks work with schools who visit for field trips throughout the week, as well as family and adult programs on the weekends and evenings. We'll be accepting applications until mid-July, then will begin application reviews and interviews through mid-August. We hope our new teammates will be ready to start work starting in late August to prepare for "the return of buses" in September. Check out more details below.

With direction from the School Program Manager, leads school groups on an as-needed basis as part of CNC’s education team.  Additional responsibilities also include assisting other staff and other CNC teams to plan and deliver educational and interpretative programs and hikes.  Executes all activities with the highest standards for safety, customer service and in keeping with the Nature Center’s Mission, Values and Principles.

Direct reports: None

Programs:

• Prepare for and lead school groups and public programs through interpretive educational experiences at Rowe Woods.
• Attend all required trainings with a focus on continuous improvement to deliver effective and inspirational programs as needed. 
• Typical school program times are between 9am – 2pm, Monday – Friday, from September through May. Public programs occur primarily on weekends and evenings. Most part-time naturalists work between 12-15 hours per week, or up to 24 hours.
• Use natural history knowledge to support CNC Naturalist led hikes.  

These job responsibilities represent only the essential and most significant duties of the position.

This job description does not exclude other work assignments, directives and responsibilities not mentioned herein.

SKILLS

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office including the use of Outlook
• Willingness to learn other software as needed
• Use of copy machines, postage machines, telephone, and other general office equipment
• Collaborative working style utilizing strong organzational and customer service skills

ABILITIES

• Be a passionate advocate for nature to articulate the mission of Cincinnati Nature Center

• Communicate effectively and professionally including oral, written, and listening methods
• Manage time and multiple priorities to meet deadlines
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external contacts
• Exhibit good judgement, honesty, integrity, and responsibility

• Enrolled in or completed an Associate degree in related field or higher preferred
• Previous work with children in a group setting required
• Excellent group management and engagement skills with both children and adults required

• This position requires the following physical activities: pushing, pulling, climbing, bending, stooping, kneeling, twisting, reaching, sitting, standing, walking, lifting, finger dexterity, grasping, repetitive motions, talking, hearing and visual acuity.

• Work is primarily performed on-site outdoors in the nature preserve. Occasional remote work acceptable.
• Local travel may be required. Some travel to regional conferences may be required. When a Nature Center vehicle is not available, the use of personal vehicle (reimbursed at IRS recommended rate) may be needed for Cincinnati Nature Center business.

• Mission Support: Inspiring Conservation through personal experiences, education, and care for the land.
• Essential Qualities: Must enjoy nature, be energized by finding creative solutions, and possess a sense of humor, creativity, and an entrepreneurial spirit.
• Background Checks: Employment is contingent upon the successful outcome of BCI and FBI background checks.  Background checks are conducted in compliance with applicable federal and state law, under code 5104.013.
• CPR & First Aid: Certification must be obtained and maintained throughout employment.
• Professional Learning, Development, and Required Training:  Employees shall engage in ongoing professional learning and development as well as shall complete ongoing required training relevant to safety, certification, and best business practices.
• Special Events: From time to time, employees shall be required to support special events which may fall outside of the normal work schedule including weekends/evenings. 

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