Conservation Naturalist II

Job Summary

 Under general supervision of the Nature Center Manager, designs, plans and presents programs for the public, schools, youth groups, civic groups; assists with all other aspects of the environmental education program including resource maintenance; assists in the preparation and compliance of an annual budget, grant writing, and fundraising efforts.

Job Responsibilities

 CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Must be capable of regular and predictable attendance at a specified location in order to perform assigned tasks.

• Designs and performs educational activities as assigned by supervisor, includes hauling equipment and/or materials to the activity site (may require pulling a trailer).

• Transports program participants driving an 6-15 passenger van to the activity site.

• Assists with providing routine building, trail and natural resource maintenance; includes occasionally operating a variety of small machinery/equipment such as utility terrain vehicles, snow blowers, mowers, chainsaws, weed eaters, and loppers.

• Oversees the activities of Interns.

• Supervises and participates in the facility's special events and outreach programs.

• Reviews the content of interpretive lectures, programs, tours, exhibits, displays, and classes prepared by staff.

• Assures the maintenance and protection of natural and cultural resources.

• Researches, writes, and reviews written material; including flyers, brochures, notices, articles, booklets, and digital content.

• Promotes the Nature Center’s interpretive services.

• Assists with grant and/or proposal writing as appropriate to the objectives and funding nature of the program; may participate in other fundraising activities.

• Assists with the maintenance of specimen collection including live animal husbandry.

• Completes special projects and performs related duties as assigned.

• Other duties as assigned

SUPERVISION RECEIVED:

 • Supervision is received from the Nature Center Manager.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED:

 • Functional supervision is exercised over various student interns and volunteers.

Minimum Required Qualifications

 • Bachelor’s degree in environmental education, interpretation, resource management or related field and at least two (2) years of related work experience; OR an associate degree in environmental education, interpretation, resource management or related field and at least four (4) years of relevant work experience; OR any equivalent combination of training, education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

• Must have a valid Iowa Class D (Chauffeurs) driver’s license and be insurable under county guidelines, or able to obtain within six (6) months from date of hire.

• Must complete training in CPR and First Aid and maintain the necessary certification and other mandatory requirements.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required.

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Must be proficient in computer applications, social media and software including Microsoft Office.

• Previous experience in supervising and training volunteers/interns preferred.

• Previous experience working with a budget, fundraising, grant writing and public relations is preferred.

• Ability to provide high level customer service and maintain professional working relationships with employees, county officials, oversight agencies and professional partners, vendors and general public.

• Ability to effectively present information on a one-to-one basis or in small or large group situations to visitors, clients, and coworkers of the department.

• Ability to operate small machinery/equipment.

• Ability to lift and/or move up to 25 pounds frequently and 50 pounds occasionally.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

 The work environment and physical demand characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Refer to the “Essential and Marginal Function Analysis” statement for a complete description of essential functions and functional requirements

• Position requires frequent exposure to the elements which may include heat, humidity, cold, rain, snow, live or dead animals, animal waste, odors, filthy environments and insects.

• Must be able to walk on uneven or heavily wooded ground for the purposes of assisting with trail and natural resource maintenance.

• Position requires frequent use of hands to finger, handle, or feel; Ability to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; ability to stand, walk sit, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance.

• Position requires frequently communication/interaction with co-workers, children and the general public.

Additional Information

 All applicants will be initially evaluated based on the information included in the application only. Therefore, it is important to complete your online application accurately and thoroughly as it relates to the position requirements. Resumes, transcripts, certifications and other supporting documentation may be required for further consideration. Applicants considered best qualified will be asked to continue in the selection process. 

An online application is required. To apply, submit: 1) online application at https://ia-blackhawkcounty.civicplushrms.com/careers/ ; and 2) proof of education and/or required certification(s). 

An eligible and qualified veteran may be entitled to preference in employment under Iowa Code §35C.1.  A veteran is an individual who meets the definition set forth in Iowa Code §35.1.In order to assert this preference a voluntary veterans preference form must be included. Applicants will receive notifications by email. 

Note: The application contains a required Supplemental Questionnaire. Your responses to these questions will assist in screening applications to determine who continues in the selection process. Responses should be informative and concise; not responding appropriately may eliminate you from consideration. Do not refer to a resume or other documentation.