Role Summary: The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) is seeking a year-round interpretive naturalist to work part-time out of Kroening Nature Center at North Mississippi Regional Park. In addition to general duties this role is tasked with assisting in the creation and updating of promotional materials such as program flyers and brochures, seasonal exhibit area displays and resources for visitors.

Responsibilities:

• Provide outstanding customer service to park visitors, participants, and staff interdepartmentally through communications in person, over the phone, and via email
• Engage visitors of all ages to enhance their experience at the park and promote positive outdoor experiences
• Prepare and deliver fun, educational, hands-on interpretive programming to all ages with emphasis placed on homeschool, early childhood, family and adult programs.
• Develop interactive nature education activities and resources for visitors
• Design and create seasonal displays for park patrons of all ages as well as promotional materials
• Maintain the bird feeding station, a variety of wildlife monitoring efforts, and phenology tracking system
• Assist with the development of environmental education curriculum and events
• Use resources responsibly and maintain clean public, work and educational spaces
• Uphold animal husbandry procedures, complete daily animal care duties, and administrative tasks as assigned

Hours: This is a part-time position averaging 27 hours per week. Kroening Nature Center is open Tuesday-Friday 9am-4:30pm, Sat 10am-4pm and Sunday 12pm-4pm. Shifts will vary to cover building hours. There are also occasional evening programs or events each month.

Compensation: $18.00 per hour. These positions are eligible for sick and safe leave in accordance with the Minneapolis Sick and Safe Time Ordinance. They are not eligible for other benefits

Required Skills & Abilities:

• Interpretive or environmental education experience at a nature center or similar
• Demonstrated ability to work well with children and diverse populations
• Working knowledge of Minnesota flora, fauna, and ecosystems
• Postsecondary coursework in environmental education, ecology, biology, natural history, or teaching
• Must be a self-starter, able to focus on prioritized tasks and work independently as well as collaboratively
• Strong problem-solving skills, ability to adapt, creativity and enthusiasm
• Ability to utilize design principles to create visually pleasing interpretive and promotional materials
• Strong organizational, communication and public speaking skills
• Excellent customer service skills, positive attitude, and sense of humor
• Familiarity and confidence working with Microsoft Office software
• Must be able to lift 30 lbs, hike uneven terrain, and teach effectively in all weather conditions

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience with program and curriculum development
• Previous experience teaching with live education animals and conducting care for these animals
• Demonstrated success teaching all ages in an outdoor setting or classroom
• Working knowledge of Minnesota ecosystems flora, fauna, and ecosystems
• Ability to speak Spanish, Hmong or Somali

Apply by submitting the following materials: Cover letter and resume

Deadline for application: 01-08-2023

Direct questions and application materials to:
Bethany Ricks
eejobapplications@minneapolisparks.org

The Way We Work

The Employees of the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board:

• Work and accept responsibility to search for, create and execute new and innovative approaches to improve the performance of Park Board services and objectives
• Assist external and internal customers to serve their needs and take responsibility for continuously improving customer service
• Foster meaningful interaction among people through the exchange of information to produce understanding
• Continuously develop and use effective strategies and interpersonal styles to engage and guide others toward the accomplishment of identified objectives and goals in the best interest of the Park Board and community
• Consistently work toward the common good of the organization and encourage others to do the same
• Conduct themselves at all times in a professionally appropriate and respectful manner
• Apply the proper safety/security practices according to established protocols, guidelines and policies

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.