Part-time Assistant Naturalist

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.

Non-exempt; part‑time; hours vary but up to 20 hours per week; no‑benefits

The Assistant Naturalist position is primarily responsible for leading nature/environmental focused activities at Fountain Rock Park & Nature Center. This position provides support to the Park Naturalist and may occasionally serve as a team leader when working with other part time staff at the Nature Center and surrounding park. The Assistant Naturalist will assist with the preparation and implementation of several nature and animal‑based activities primarily for school aged youth. Supervision is received from the Park Naturalists and/or Recreation Manager.

Frederick County Government values 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.

To perform this job successfully, an employee must be able to perform all essential functions satisfactorily. Any employee's position may not be assigned all functions or equipment listed above, and the examples may not cover all functions or equipment that may be assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform their essential functions. The qualifications/requirements, knowledge/skills/abilities and physical requirements 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.

Responsibilities

Assist with development and implementation of Nature, outdoor education and environmental activities for the public

Assist with the coordination of volunteer projects (Department events, Master Naturalist, Weed Warriors, etc.)

May occasionally perform office support, handle cash transactions and record‑keeping related to activity and nature center attendance

Create, implement and lead nature focused recreation activities

Update Park bulletin boards for promotion of park and nature center activities

Assist with inventory of activity and exhibit supplies

Care for resident animals of the nature center and maintain exhibits, as needed

Perform other related duties as required

Qualifications

High school graduation or the equivalent

Minimum 1 year of work experience closely related to Nature Studies or Environmental Education (volunteer experience may be considered)

Current certification in First Aid and CPR, or the ability to become certified before the program begins (certification must be maintained throughout employment)

Knowledge / Skills / Abilities

Ability to work with sensitive information and maintain appropriate confidentiality

Ability to effectively access and utilize computerized systems and equipment as well as other office machines

Ability to work with various groups/ages of people in indoor or outdoor settings

Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with co‑workers and the general public, especially youth, and lead various classes

Strong and effective spoken and written (English) communication skills, including accurate writing/proof‑reading skills

Basic knowledge of native Maryland flora and fauna

Willingness to lead various courses and all trainings/meetings as required by Supervisors

Preference May Be Given For

Additional education related to Environmental Studies or Outdoor Education

Experience working in areas of nature and outdoor/natural world education

Having certifications in programs such as: Master Naturalist, Master Gardener Project Wild, Aquatic Wild, Growing up Wild, Project Learning Tree, or similar

Scout Counselor for nature related badges such as Environmental Science, Birds, and Nature Study, etc.

Wilderness First Aid certification

Ability and willingness to participate in planning and training sessions

Examination Process (may include)

An evaluation of training and experience

One or more interviews

A pre‑employment background investigation

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