Part-time Naturalist Educator

Job Title: Part-Time Naturalist Educator 

Work Status: Part-time 

FLSA Status: Non-exempt

Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy (PPC) Mission Statement:  

Improving quality of life for the people of Pittsburgh by restoring the park system to excellence in partnership with government and the community. Projects and programs are conducted with respect for the environment, historic design, and the needs of our diverse region. 

Position Summary: 

Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy (PPC) Naturalist Educators teach people of all ages and backgrounds about the value of healthy habitats and ecosystems, promoting curiosity and wonder about the natural world.  Part-time Naturalist Educators serve as an integral part of the education team supporting: 1) the PPC’s school partner programs and 2) afterschool program partnerships; and 3) community outreach, public programs and special events as needed. Part-time Naturalists Educators can expect to work an average approximately 20 hours per week, but hours may vary throughout the year and hours are not guaranteed each week. 

Position Duties: 

Performs under the general supervision of the Director of Education and is responsible for, but not limited to, the following duties: 

• Take primary responsibility for coordinating one or more programs, including planning activities, co-leading trainings, ordering and preparing supplies, selecting and clearing outdoor sites, assigning staff roles, directing the program day, and serving in a lead teaching capacity. 

• Work with the education team to deliver preK-12 outdoor education programs that include experiential outdoor learning, supported inquiry, environmental stewardship, and child and youth development. 

• Serve as part of the teaching team for pre-K-12 school partner programs, out-of-school-time and community programs. 

• Create a safe, supportive learning environment for all learners through positive reinforcement, role-modeling, and cultural sensitivity.  

• Work in office, classroom, and outdoor settings. Work is conducted at various times of the day, with occasional evening and weekend hours 

• Attend weekly staff meetings and other scheduled meetings as needed.  

Skills and Ability to (position requirements at entry): 

• Ability to work independently, collaboratively, and in a team environment. 

• Ability to manage multiple priorities. 

• Treat all program participants and park visitors with respect and dignity. 

• Establish and maintain respectful, and productive working relationships and address project and interpersonal issues in a constructive, and proactive manner. 

• Show respect and sensitivity for cultural differences. 

• Understand and appropriately adhere to and communicate PPC policies and procedures. 

Training and Experience (position requirements at entry): 

• A professional background or education in ecology, biology, education, youth development, or related fields. 

• At least 2 years experience working with children and youth. 

• First Aid and CPR certification (must be obtained within 6 months of hire date). 

• Obtain and maintain the following clearances: Department of Human Services Child Abuse History Clearance; Pennsylvania State Police Request for Criminal Records Check; Federal Criminal History Record Information (CHRI)  

Physical Requirements: 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential duties of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties. 

• The ability to maneuver through all areas of parks (hills, streams, thickets, etc.). 

• The ability to traverse on rough, uneven terrain, as well as wet and slippery surfaces.  

• The ability to work outdoors through all seasons. 

• Light Work: Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects.   

The PPC is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.