Variable Assistant Naturalist

The City of Lakewood is dedicated to upholding City values to include: Performance Excellence, Leadership, Respect and Collaboration. Best fit candidates will demonstrate innovation, customer service, dedication, passion and engagement. All people, citizens and employees, will be treated with respect, relevance, and importance.

JOB SUMMARY

Working in a temporary part-time capacity under the general direction of the Park Ranger Naturalist, provides environmental education through nature programs, large events, and roving interpretation in the parks system and throughout Jefferson County.  

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (Major Tasks, Duties and Responsibilities)

Park Naturalist II (must be at least 21 years of age)

Provides formal and informal environmental education to park visitors, neighbors, and area schools in order to foster stewardship and a sense of community. Responsible for planning, researching, preparing materials for, writing, and conducting interpretive programs for adults and children.

Organizes various outreach events and programs intended to educate park users and residents about park ecosystems and wildlife, history, stewardship, and other topics, and occasionally leads volunteer groups on projects.

Effectively responds to emergencies and coordinates response with West Metro, Lakewood Police, and other responding agencies.  Provides first aid and rescue within training and ability.

Performs basic visitor center duties and natural resources management duties as needed or as assigned, including pass sales, marketing, wildlife management and trail maintenance.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Implements nature programs to the public.
Works closely with volunteers on nature-based activities.

ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS
Supervision Received:
Receives general supervision from the Park Ranger Naturalist.

Supervision Given:
May provide guidance to and/or direct the work of volunteers.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS (Knowledge, Skills and Abilities)
Education:
A bachelor’s degree, or course work leading to a degree, in a natural resource-related field is preferred.

Experience:
Previous experience in outdoor education, or similar positions, is highly preferred. Other Park, recreation, natural resources, or education experience will be considered.

Licensure/Certification/Registration:
Valid driver’s license, with good driving record. 
Valid CPR, AED and First Aid certification (will be provided if not already held). Certifications must be completed within 2 months of hire date.

First responder or higher certification is preferred.

OTHER KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Must possess the physical ability to perform outdoor programs.
Knowledge of natural resources based within the various facilities.  Knowledge of basic natural history of species within the facility.
Ability to work with taxidermy animals, skulls, pelts, and live animals occasionally.
Excellent public relations skills.
Ability to work with limited supervision in difficult and occasionally stressful situations.
Ability to demonstrate leadership skills.
Ability to work independently and as a team member.
Basic computer skills including knowledge of Microsoft Office and CivicRec preferred.
Basic swimming ability is required.
Background check required.
 

Pay Range

$15.52-$20.74

Background and reference checks will be conducted for all regular and some variable/seasonal positions.