What are the responsibilities and job description for the Nature Program Instructor position at Frederick County Government?
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.
The Recreation Department seeks to enhance the quality of life of county residents by providing innovative activities and programs that meet the recreational needs of Frederick County communities. We encourage participation in a variety of recreational opportunities that foster enjoyment and lifelong learning.
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
Frederick County Government recognizes the principles of diversity and inclusion, and strives to ensure equal opportunities for its workforce, applicants and community members. If you are a person who wants to make a difference, give back to your community, and be a voice for change, apply to Frederick County Government today.
- 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, dusting, and animal enclosures.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. In addition to the duties listed in the Essential Duties section, each employee in this classification may perform the following other duties. Any single position may not be assigned all duties listed above, nor do the examples cover all duties that may be assigned. The qualifications / requirements, knowledge/skills/abilities and physical demands or working conditions described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- 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
KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS / ABILITIES:
- 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
PREFERENCE MAY BE GIVEN FOR:
- 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
This description reflects management's assignment of essential duties; it does not proscribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.
Salary : $17
Program Instructor
Reach Incorporated -
Washington, DC
Program Instructor
Flex Academies -
Washington, DC
Program Instructor
MTF Childcare -
Capitol, MD
