What are the responsibilities and job description for the Nature Specialist position at Town of Windsor CT?
Northwest Park Nature Specialist
The Town of Windsor, CT seeks a Nature Specialist to work at Northwest Parks Camp Foxfire. Children ages 4-14 learn about nature and the environment at the parks 473-acre campus featuring native forests, fields, wetlands, and heritage farm animals. Through active, field-based explorations and age-appropriate outdoor adventures, the Nature Specialist will nurture each child's curiosity and help them gain confidence and self-respect while building relationships with other children and the natural world.
This is a full-time temporary summer position with a start date of Monday, June 9, 2025 and ending Monday, August 11, 2025. Applicants who can commit to all work dates receive hiring preference. The hourly rate is $18.50/per hour. Work schedule is 40 hours a week, Monday Friday, 8:15am-4:30pm. First Aid and CPR training is provided. Onsite housing may be available upon request.
Responsibilities:
- Develop lesson plans and provide instruction for field-based environmental learning activities for all age groups (PreK- Grade 8) that are safe, fun, and appropriate to the campers' age and abilities, while reflecting a commitment to stewardship of the natural environment
- Plan and provide interpretations for offsite field trip experiences that make a meaningful, educational connection to the camps weekly theme
- Prepare equipment and supplies for all of your lesson components; maintain a clean and organized learning space both indoors and outdoors
- Possess a genuine passion for working with youth in the outdoors, while maintaining a positive energy and attitude for all camp activities. (Access to indoor/covered spaces for thunderstorms provided)
- Provide educational support to Camp Teachers & Junior Counselors
- Maintain positive relationships with campers, parents/guardians and staff; work well on a team
Qualifications:
- Bachelors Degree or two years of experience in environmental education, interpretation, recreation or related field or teaching experience with nature-based centers or camps
- Demonstrated public speaking skills and ability to communicate with enthusiasm & clarity; ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences
- Experience working with groups of children in formal or informal settings (school, nature center, summer camp, scouts, etc.) Experience with groups of 10 or more children is preferred
- Enthusiasm for exploring nature with children; possess field knowledge of the natural world
- Willingness and ability to work outdoors in all weather (including summer heat & humidity and/or rain) and to be physically active for most of an 8-hour day. (This is a physically intensive job that includes significant movement throughout the day, including walking on uneven terrain, kneeling, bending, and lifting)
- Ability to be emotionally and socially on for the majority of an 8-hour day of direct time with campers, requiring emotional presence and energy to engage with children and coworkers
- Demonstrated commitment, reliability, punctuality, and responsibility
To apply: Complete an on-line application at https://townofwindsorct.com/human-resources/vacancies/ and attach a cover letter and a resume. Successful candidates will be subject to the Town of Windsor background screening process, which includes a criminal background check and a pre-employment drug screen including screening for marijuana. Applications will be accepted until the position has been filled; interviews to start February 10, 2025. EOE/AA
Salary : $19
