Paradise Point Lead Naturalist: full-time seasonal

FUNCTION: This position is based out of our Paradise Point Nature Center located on the beautiful north shore of Newfound Lake, NH and will support the mission of New Hampshire Audubon (to protect New Hampshire’s natural environment for wildlife and for people) by supporting the Center’s operations, boat rentals, and program coordination/delivery to area residents, visitors, and neighboring camps from an established nature center operated by NH Audubon.  

TITLE: Paradise Point Lead Naturalist 

LOCATION: Paradise Point Nature Center, Hebron, New Hampshire

HOURS: 35-40 hours per week, non-exempt (hourly paid). Hours will vary depending on Center needs.  

SCHEDULE: Seasonal, full-time position May 21 – September 10, 2022, possible hours available starting early May for Center preparations advance of opening. Anticipated schedule: Weekends 8 am to 4 pm and Monday, Tuesday, and Friday 9:00 am to 5 pm. Two hours on Tuesday evenings.  Expected to work most holidays and weekends with one 5-day block of time off during the summer. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:  

Programming & Exhibits – 50%  

• Coordination and delivery of a scaffolded environmental education curriculum for the boys of Mayhew as supported by a grant. Develop and submit programmatic evaluations and reporting to the funder.  
• Spearheading program promotion, marketing, and facilitation of regularly occurring public programs at Paradise Point 
• Marketing and facilitating interpretive hikes and hands-on discovery activities for children, adults, and families.  
• Assisting with the facilitation of the Red Barn Speaker Series Tuesday evenings.  
• Leading canoe tours on Newfound Lake.  
• Planning and implementing outreach naturalist programs (possibly some evening programs).  
• Creating/maintaining exhibits for the Newfound Center.  

Boats, Trails, & Animals – 40%  

• Assist visitors with boat rentals including payment processing  
• Performing basic trail maintenance as needed.  
• Organizing, maintaining, and inventorying program equipment.  
• Performing animal care and assisting with maintenance records.  

Other related duties as assigned – 10%  

• Greeting and assisting visitors to the Center with general orientation, describing the benefits of NH Audubon membership  

LEADERSHIP: Reports to the Paradise Point Nature Center Director  

WORKING CONDITIONS: Indoor/outdoor setting with varied terrain; Non-smoking environment.  

QUALIFICATIONS:  

Education: Some higher education coursework completed in adventure education, environmental education, conservation, biology, natural history, or related field required; Bachelor’s degree preferred.  

Experience: Two years' experience working with the general public in situations requiring an array of different skills with demonstrated ability to make independent and coordinated decisions. Must have ARC or AHA Standard First Aid certification and CPR certification or equivalent, or willingness to obtain certifications prior to the start of employment; ARC First Responder or Life Guard certification or equivalent desirable.  

Interpretive and public speaking experience is a plus, along with canoe and kayak paddling experience. Knowledge of natural sciences is a plus, especially in ornithology, ecology, biology, geology, or other related fields.  

Skills, Traits and Characteristics Necessary for Success: Requires exceptional interpersonal skills, attention to detail, good problem-solving skills, and a high degree of organization. Excellent verbal and written communication skills with an ability to develop a good rapport and positive relations with the public. Must have the ability to prioritize and complete work tasks on time in a complex and dynamic workflow, a positive attitude, excellent customer service skills, ability to work independently, and a professional and courteous manner. Must pass a criminal background check.  

Physical Demands: To perform the essential functions of the position, the following applies: requires standing, stretching, bending, walking, lifting about 50 lbs. (transporting and handling canoes and kayaks down steep slopes). Must be able to climb stairs and navigate outdoor trails which includes steep and rocky terrain, lake environment as well as be physically and mentally capable of performing multiple tasks under pressure and be able to function in a fast paced indoors and diverse outdoors environment. Ability to participate in moderately active programming including hiking, kayaking, and canoeing as necessary. 

How to apply:

Please send resume and cover letter resume to the hiring committee at: jobs@nhaudubon.org with "Newfound Lead Naturalist Application" in the subject line.