Naturalist Aide - Seasonal - Summer 2026 ($17.74/hour - $23.94/hour)

Job DetailsLevel: EntryJob Location: Sulphur Creek Nature Center - Hayward, CA 94541Position Type: HourlySalary Range: $17.74 - $23.94 HourlyJob Category: NatureJoin Our Team as a Naturalist Aide!
Do you love the outdoors and nature? Enjoy working with animals, kids, and the community? Join H.A.R.D.'s Nature Program and help connect people with the natural world!

 

About Us
The Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (H.A.R.D.) is an independent special use district serving over 309,000 residents across a 100-square-mile area, including the City of Hayward and the unincorporated communities of Castro Valley, San Lorenzo, Ashland, Cherryland, and Fairview.

 

H.A.R.D. operates two vibrant nature centers—the Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center and the Sulphur Creek Nature Center—that foster environmental awareness, stewardship, and appreciation of our local wildlife and habitats.

 

About the Role
We’re currently seeking an enthusiastic Naturalist Aide to join our team! As a Naturalist Aide, you'll welcome and engage visitors, assist with daily operations, and support environmental education efforts. This is a great opportunity for someone passionate about nature, education, and community engagement.

 

Key Responsibilities



Greet and assist visitors at one or both nature centers


Share information about local animals, habitats, and natural history


Present biofacts and other educational materials


Help guide guests and support center tours


Assist with special events and occasional evening programs



 

Ideal Candidate
We’re looking for someone who is:



Outgoing and energetic


Flexible and reliable


A team player with a love for nature and learning
Note: This is an entry-level position; training will be provided.



 

Position Details



Position Title: Naturalist Aide


Hourly Rate: $17.74/hour - $23.94/hour


Schedule: Up to 18 hours/week (includes weekdays and one weekend day; some evening work required for special events). This is a seasonal role, set to end on September 4, 2026.


Typical Hours: Between 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM


Status: Part-Time, Seasonal, Hourly, Non-Exempt


Work Location: Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center and/or Sulphur Creek Nature Center


Maximum Hours: Not to exceed 960 hours per fiscal year (July 1 – June 30)



 

Application Process
Applications are reviewed as they are received. This posting may close at any time—apply early!

 

POSITION SUMMARY

Under general supervision of the Recreation Coordinator II, the Naturalist Aide assists with administration duties  and in preparation of interpretive programming, outreach and camp programs; assists with program and scheduling, assists with donations, assists with organization of program supplies, equipment and materials necessary for programming and/or events, provides positive public relations, provides accurate information on programs and services in person and over the phone, assists with inventory, files paperwork,  assists with organization and maintenance of the instructional museum as per the position. The position is responsible for welcoming and representing the District during programs and events, maintaining and organizing a clean and safe multiuse space; supporting the district in providing quality programs, services and excellent customer service. 

 

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Incumbents in this class are primarily responsible for assisting with program preparations, reports and general duties to assist with operations, marketing, and special events. This class can be distinguished from the Naturalist class as this is entry level into nature program unit. 

 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:


Assist with program preparations and/or administration duties
Assist with marketing and outreach of programs and events
Assist with organization and monitoring of donations and supplies
Organize and maintain a safe and clean office and program space
Report any repairs or maintenance needed on any equipment/tools used for instructional museum/exhibits or storage
Assist with enforcing safety guidelines, District policies and procedures
Assist with registration. rental program, and reporting process
Provide administrative support including file updating and management, returning emails and phone class, and data entry
Performs other duties as assigned


 

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Employees predominantly work outdoors and/or an office/classroom environment with loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road/surface hazards, vibration, chemicals, cleaning agents, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous physical substances, odors, and fumes. Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing safety and departmental policies and