Outdoor Educator (Seasonal/Limited-Benefit)

“It is my dream job!”, “Who wouldn’t want to spend their summer at the beach!” and  “I feel like what I’m doing makes a difference.” These are just a few comments that we hear from our park employees.  Working for Ottawa County Parks is not only fun, but it also helps to develop a positive work ethic, build customer service skills, and learn basic land and building management skills. Whether you are entering the workforce or have recently retired, working at Ottawa County Parks might just be the perfect opportunity!

Under the general supervision of the Coordinator of Community Engagement and Parks Naturalist, plans and conducts outdoor education, natural history and cultural history, and recreational programs throughout the parks system. May be responsible for managing visitors in the Nature Center including greeting, orientation, monitoring, and sales. This position is seasonal and part-time based out of the Nature Education Center in West Olive, MI. 

Important details about the position to review before applying: 

• This is a seasonal, limited-benefited position with possible opportunities year around.
• This position requires availability during the week (Monday through Friday) from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. during the busy months of September- October to teach outdoor school educational programs.
• Short-notice availability and some weekend working hours will be needed, at times. 

The essential functions of this position include, but are not limited to, the following: 

1. Prepares for, develops, conducts, and leads a variety of environmental education programs and activities for people of all ages, including organized groups (schools, scouts, etc.) and the general public.   This includes program planning, preparation, and clean-up.
2. Assists in keeping the Nature Center clean, organized, and functional.
3. Assists in the direction of volunteers, including assigning and directing work, monitoring and motivating volunteers, and providing input for evaluation.
4. Ensures all participants are registered and maintain accurate attendance records. Assists in evaluating program success and make recommendations. Assists others in planning, organizing, and implementing curriculum.
5. Will work the reception desk including greeting, orienting, and monitoring visitors and providing assistance over the phone.
6. Arranges for the purchase of supplies, coordinating expenditures with County Policies.  Assists with the procurement, distribution, care, use, and maintenance of equipment and supplies. Maintains supply and equipment inventories.
7. Ensures the safety of program participants, co-workers, and the general public by following county policies. If necessary, provides first aid.   Reports all incident/accidents to the Supervisor immediately. Completes and submits appropriate accident/incident records and forms
8. Performs other related functions as assigned.

Experience working with children and others in an outdoor setting (nature center, camp, school, etc.). High school diploma or GED and specialized experience in environmental education, early childhood development, or a related field is preferred. Experience with program planning, development and presentation preferred.

Ability to communication in Spanish or other language spoken by groups residing in the county is strongly preferred.

Additional Requirements and Information

Required Knowledge and Skills: 

1. Helps support an equitable, safe, diverse, and inclusive workplace.
2. Familiarity with or willingness to learn the flora, fauna, and ecology of west Michigan.
3. Excellent verbal communication skills required.   Ability to speak effectively to a variety of groups. 
4. Basic principles, practices and rules related to assigned area of instruction.
5. Basic principles and practices of planning and implementing a nature –based program
6. Basic principles and practices of group dynamics and group interactions
7. Basic principles and practices of leadership and group organization.
8. Ability to perform basic computer skills, including using Google and its applications and slide show software.
9. Ability to interact positively and professionally with other Parks and Recreation staff, children, and the general public from a wide range of cultural and socio-economic backgrounds and with widely divergent communication skills.

Physical Requirements: 

1. Must be 18 years of age or older.
2. Must possess sufficient mobility with or without assistive devices to access and lead groups through all natural features, structures, and facilities in parks.  The features include dune stairs and other areas that are somewhat strenuous.
3. Must possess sufficient visual acuity, with or without corrective lenses, to identify park features, flora and fauna.
4. Must have sufficient vocal ability to deliver verbal presentations to park patrons and various groups.
5. Ability to lead groups year-round in a variety of weather conditions.
6. Ability to travel to various sites throughout the County.                                

Working Conditions: 

Work is generally divided between a normal office environment and the outdoor environments of the County parks. There is frequent exposure to inclement weather and airborne particulates. Must have ability to hike up to five miles over uneven terrain, with or without assistive devices. Must be willing and able to work occasional weekend and evening shifts in order to accommodate scheduled park programs.

Disclaimer:
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice 

Ottawa County is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Salary : $16