What are the responsibilities and job description for the Teacher Naturalist position at Reston Association?
Position Location
12001 Sunrise Valley Drive, Reston, VA 20191
This is an on-site position at Reston headquarters and Walker Nature Center. Your seasonal position may require travel to multiple Reston Association sites based on the duties required.
Position Overview
Are you passionate about making a difference in the community? At Reston Association (RA), we’re committed to enhancing the quality of life for Reston residents through outstanding programs, exceptional services, and dedicated stewardship of the community’s natural and recreational resources. As the community's steward, RA is responsible for maintaining the quality of life in Reston, chiefly by caring for and administering the community's most precious asset - its real property.
At Reston Association (RA), our people are at the heart of everything we do. We are actively seeking a Teacher Naturalist to join our Nature Center team! The primary function of this seasonal position is to deliver engaging environmental education programs and support operations at Walker Nature Center. This role plays an important part in advancing RA’s mission by fostering environmental stewardship, community engagement, and outdoor learning through hands‑on educational experiences.
The Teacher Naturalist will lead environmental education programs for school groups and the public, support visitor services, and assist with special events and programming. This position works closely with the Environmental Education Supervisor to ensure high‑quality educational offerings while maintaining a welcoming and safe experience for visitors. The role requires a passion for nature, comfort working outdoors in all seasons, and enthusiasm for teaching children and community members.
What You’ll Bring
- Natural history knowledge with some teaching experience preferred.
- Experience working with children and a demonstrated love of the outdoors.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to organize, prioritize, and lead engaging educational programs.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications preferred.
- Ability to use a personal computer, office equipment, science tools, and hand tools as needed.
- Adult and child CPR and First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain certification.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including standing and walking for extended periods.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds independently and/or assist with items up to 50 pounds.
What You Can Expect From Reston Association
At RA, we are leading the model community where all can Live, Work, Play and Get Involved, and we strive to preserve and enhance the Reston community through outstanding leadership, service and stewardship of our resources. Our Core Values of Service, Collaboration, Stewardship, Innovation and Leadership guide everything we do, and we are proud to provide a workplace in which everyone is treated as an individual with dignity and respect, encourages creativity, and always endeavors to provide an atmosphere that exceeds member expectations and engages collaboration and communication.
If you are passionate about a workplace that is dedicated to the preservation of natural resources and advancing community while at the same time creating a collaborative workplace, we want to hear from you.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or state as an individual with a disability.
Compensation
In addition to a competitive hourly wage, we offer several benefits designed to enhance your experience at RA.
Our offerings include:
- Free recreation passes for seasonal employees and their dependents
- One Free Season Long Guest Pass
- Discounted fees for all Recreation Programs and Camp Programs
- Discounts in the RA Tennis and Pickleball Pro Shop
- One free pavilion reservation per year
- Half price reservations at Community Buildings
- Four complimentary boat rental passes
- Employee Referral Bonus
- Staff events
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Free electric car charging on-site
We are dedicated to promoting a welcoming and rewarding workplace where all employees can thrive and feel valued. Your growth and success are important to us, and we strive to provide the resources and support necessary for you to achieve your personal and professional goals.
Reston Association is committed to maintaining a secure and transparent recruitment experience. As part of our standard hiring practices, all communication with applicants is conducted exclusively through official ADP email messages. Reston Association does not use text messaging, social media direct messages, or calls from unidentified numbers to schedule interviews or request personal information. If you receive a message that appears inconsistent with these guidelines, or if you would like to verify the legitimacy of any communication, please contact: Devon Mangual, HR Coordinator, dmangual@reston.org
Salary : $18