Assistant Naturalists
Wage: $8.50/hour, group housing, and possible college internship credit.
Hours: Seasonal full-time (40 hours per week, no overtime available, Saturdays and some evenings required). Position dates are May 17 - August 20, but some flexibility may be possible.
Description: Two Assistant Naturalists help with daily operations of the Highlands Nature Center. Primary duties include working with the public to interpret the natural history of the southern Appalachians and related Nature Center exhibits, answering questions about local natural areas and recreational opportunities, actively developing and teaching several environmentally-based educational programs for both children and adults, and serving as co-counselor for a series of Nature Day Camps for children ages 4 to 14. Staff will also assist with the implementation of weekly special evening programs for the public. Work also involves the feeding, cleaning, general care, and interpretation of live animal exhibits (mainly reptiles and amphibians). Other general duties are also the responsibility of all Nature Center staff and include word processing; maintaining program schedules; participant registration; handling money; cleaning and maintaining exhibits, bathrooms, and animal enclosures on a daily basis; empty trash and recycling bins; care of live plants; etc. Summer staff may also be occasionally asked to assist other Station employees in the office, library, or Botanical Garden. These jobs may include heavy lifting (no more than 50 lbs.). Assistant Naturalists work a 40-hour week, but the schedule will require flexibility including weekend and some evening work.
Qualifications: Applicants should be majors (or recent graduates) in biology, zoology, botany, environmental science, science education, outdoor recreation, or other related fields. Proficiency in dealing with the public is a must. Ideal candidates should have experience working with children, familiarity with (or enthusiasm to learn) a variety of environmental education activities such as Project WILD, and experience caring for animals. A basic knowledge of the flora and fauna of the southern Appalachians is also desirable. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and have a valid driver’s license, and must be in good physical condition to lead hikes. Willingness to work a flexible schedule is a must. Non-smokers are preferred.
To apply: A State of North Carolina job application (PD107) MUST be completed (available on website). Send application, cover letter, and a list of 3 references to Patrick Brannon, Highlands Biological Station, 265 N. Sixth Street, Highlands NC 28741. Applications must be received by March 30, 2011. For more information, please call 828-526-2623 or visit www.wcu.edu/hbs.
