Environmental Educator, Neighborhood Naturalist Program

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) is seeking an Environmental Educator to work in parks throughout Minneapolis. The Neighborhood Naturalist will: 

• Provide positive, outdoor, nature-based education programs in Minneapolis parks 
• Provide interactive activities and education for people of all ages at community events 
• Build community relationships in neighborhood parks 
• Schedule programming seasonally with neighborhood park site supervisors and directors 
• Participate in staff meetings and professional development 
• Assist with curriculum development for environmental education programs 
• Assist with animal care, program marketing, and other duties as assigned 
• Occasionally assist Aquatic Invasive Species boat inspectors and provide AIS education at boat landings 

This naturalist position is assigned to serve parks in the Upper South region of the city, with a shared “homebase” office at 3800 Bryant Ave South. This position is anticipated to start in April 2023. 

Hours: This is a year-round part-time position, 28 hours per week. The majority of weekly hours occur over 4 days during the morning, afternoon, and/or early evening M-F. When possible, staff are expected to accommodate occasional later evening and weekend special events. 

Required Skills and Abilities: 

• Interpretive or environmental education experience at a nature center, recreation center, or similar 
• Academic training in environmental education, ecology, natural history, or teaching 
• Working knowledge of Minnesota flora, fauna, and ecosystems 
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, communication, and public speaking skills 
• Excellent customer service skills, a positive attitude, creativity, and adaptability 
• Demonstrated ability to work well with children and diverse populations 
• Must be able to accomplish tasks with little direct supervision 
• Must be able to consistently arrive to classes prepared and on time 

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Must be able to lift 30 lbs., hike uneven terrain, and teach effectively in all weather conditions 
• Must have a driver’s license and a reliable personal vehicle to haul program materials and drive between work assignment locations  

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Demonstrated success teaching all ages (especially children) in an outdoor setting or classroom 
• Ability to communicate fluently in a second language: Spanish, Hmong, or Somali preferred 
• Previous experience with program and curriculum development 

Application Deadline: April 9, 2023. Applications will be evaluated as they are received, and interviews scheduled accordingly.  

Please send your cover letter, resume, and references to eejobapplications@minneapolisparks.org. Please put “Neighborhood Naturalist (Year Round)” in the subject line.