Seasonal Naturalist

ABOUT MISSOULA Missoula is a serene mountain town tucked away in the Northern Rockies of Montana, an outdoor enthusiast’s dream! There are over 60,000 acres of wilderness to explore just minutes from downtown. Missoula’s outdoor recreation opportunities make it an excellent location for getting outside. Enjoy hiking, kayaking, cycling, floating, backpacking, skiing, climbing, and more! Missoula has incredible local restaurants, shops, live music, and arts and culture events. It is full of families, students, and people who appreciate and care for the outdoors!   ABOUT MNHC SUMMER CAMPS MNHC’s camps for kids Pre-K - 5th Grade combines experiential natural science education with outdoor fun and adventure. Camps include environmental education, exploration, projects, field trips to local natural areas, free play, games, and more. Every week is unique, so camp staff will gain broad experience in outdoor environmental education while exploring a variety of topics in natural history.  

Job Overview

JOB DESCRIPTION
Have fun, get outdoors, and make a difference this summer while gaining valuable training and experience working in environmental education! Seasonal Naturalists will provide leadership and instruction for the full-day Summer Outdoor Discovery Day Camps at the Montana Natural History Center. Seasonal Naturalists will facilitate and lead a variety of activities and themed camps, connect youth to nature, and explore the outdoors with children of different age levels.   

AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY 

• Specific Responsibilities:

1. Maintain MNHC’s expectations for safety, education, and positive group dynamics. 
2. Facilitate and build Summer Camp activities and schedule as assigned.
3. Actively engage with campers throughout the normal camp day and during before- and after-care as scheduled.
4. Communicate effectively, professionally, and positively with guardians, MNHC staff, and campers on daily successes and challenges. 
5. Maintain program supplies and participate in keeping camp and storage areas organized.
6. Supervise before- and after-care activities as scheduled to provide a safe and positive environment for children and build trust with their guardians.
7. Work alongside a co-instructor to supervise, mentor, and lead activities for groups of up to 13 campers. 
8. Create a fun and educational camp week schedule with activities and lessons that will be available to you. 
9. Build positive group dynamics and ensure a safe and fun learning environment. 
10. Engage in reflective teaching practices, work towards skill building for yourself, and support staff and campers in their growth.
11. Drive MNHC’s short bus from the Center to field trip locations or other campsites (Note: not all Seasonal Naturalists will be required to drive a bus, but it is preferred). 

• Required Qualifications 

1. Experience with or passionate commitment to teaching/working with children of various ages.
2. Work effectively as an individual and a team member.
3. Flexible, positive, and solutions-oriented attitude and mindset.
4. Ability to thrive in an environment that is fast-paced, creative, and dynamic.
5. Current CPR/First Aid certification or willingness to obtain before the start date.
6. (For bus drivers only) Having a clean driving record to be verified by a driving record check.

• Preferred Qualifications

1. Experience participating in or teaching various outdoor and naturalist skills such as hiking, nature journaling, orienteering, citizen science projects, place-based knowledge of Montana, etc.
2. Practical knowledge of methodologies in science and natural history education.
3. Knowledge of local Montana flora and fauna.
4. WFR, Lifeguard, and/or additional safety certifications.

Special Benefits

Position Title: Seasonal Naturalist

Position Category: Full-Time, Seasonal (40 hours/week)

Salary: $15.00/hour

Duration: May 29th - August 25th, 2023

NOTE: Candidates applying for this role can also be considered for a Visiting Naturalist in the Schools Field Instructor position.  (April 24th - June 2nd, 2023). Must apply by March 3rd, 2023 to be considered for both positions.