The Outdoor Experiences Specialist - Naturalist supports the efforts of Outdoor Experiences staff and mission by leading programs, making some independent decision, performing office work, directing volunteers, and other related functions. The Specialist may be focused on outdoor education, outdoor recreation, historical interpretation, or facility/program support.

Essential Functions:

1. Regular and predictable attendance is expected and required. All Cleveland Metroparks employees must be prepared to work flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, and/or holidays as required.
2. Provides outdoor recreation and/or educational programs that serve to enhance Cleveland Metroparks conservation, education and outdoor recreation mission and to promote environmental education and stewardship.
3. Plans and presents quality outdoor recreation and/or environmental education programs within the park district and at off-site locations
4. Establishes program goals and objectives in cooperation with Manager
5. Participates in special events or projects as assigned.
6. Assists in evaluating programs, offers recommendations for improvement and actively participates in revision of programs
7. Demonstrated organizational skills including verbal communication, problem solving, and conflict management
8. Drives Park District vehicles to transport equipment and/or program participants as required.
9. Assists in maintaining equipment and program materials.
10. Keeps direct supervisor promptly informed of key/significant issues or concerns.
11. Carries out duties and responsibilities in a safe and efficient manner to maintain a safe work environment and surrounding area for oneself, co-workers and public. Responds to hazardous situations and/or potentially unsafe conditions by taking corrective action as capable and promptly notifying supervisory personnel.
12. Inspects and performs light maintenance
13. Performs related duties as assigned or apparent.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree with specialization in environmental education, outdoor recreation, natural resources or related discipline from an accredited college or university or equivalent.
• Demonstrated experience in planning and implementing education programs required; or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this job.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license under the laws of the State of Ohio. Must obtain and maintain a current first aid/CPR certification.
• Willing and able to engage diverse audiences in outdoor education or recreation.
• Extensive knowledge of the natural history of the region, or outdoor recreation skills.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with stakeholders, including employees and the general public.
• Ability to speak and write clearly, concisely and persuasively using correct grammar, spelling and punctuation with ability to communicate one-on-one or in group settings.
• Ability to perform work with a high degree of accuracy and organization.
• Ability to work cooperatively with others.
• Ability to perform with considerable independence and initiative.

Work Schedule:  Average of 23hrs/week. This position entails a part-time schedule, Tuesday-Sunday and may include regular weekends, evenings and some holidays

Filing Deadline:  04/13/2022