Naturalist

The Research Foundation for SUNY for & on behalf of SUNY Oswego’s Rice Creek Field Station seeks applications for a part-time Naturalist. This is a paid opportunity at $20 per hour.

Position Description

Rice Creek Field Station seeks a part-time Naturalist to engage with visitors and provide interpretive programs, utilizing the field station’s building and 350 acres of forests, fields, and wetlands. Rice Creek’s Naturalists staff the building on Saturdays and develop and support educational programs like guided nature walks, bird watching, Junior Naturalist programs, nature-inspired art programs, field trips, and facility tours, according to their skillset and interests. They also occasionally support special events like festivals. Given applicant interest and experience, the Naturalist may also assist with program advertising.

The work schedule for this position is two Saturdays per month during the summer season (June through August) and one Saturday per month the rest of the year, plus possible additional Saturdays as a substitute or special event assistant. The Saturday work schedule is 9 am to 3 pm.

Rice Creek Field Station, a unit of SUNY Oswego, is located at 193 Thompson Road, Oswego, NY.

Qualifications

The successful applicant has experience in environmental education and interpretation, including developing and leading successful programs for adults and children. Qualifications include:

• Environmental Education experience, including leading existing programs and developing new programs. 2+ years of experience is preferred, but a combination of experience and coursework in environmental education or interpretation will be considered.
• A general working knowledge of natural history and ecology of the Northeastern United States/Oswego. Specialized knowledge of one or more groups of animals or plants is an asset.
• A passion for outdoor education, sustainability, and inspiring others through hands- on learning.
• A can-do, problem-solving attitude, with the ability to address issues using sound judgment and resources while working independently.
• Basic computer skills, including accessing emails and reporting timesheets. Familiarity with social media, Canva, and MailChimp is an asset.
• The ability to walk or snowshoe over uneven terrain for 1-2 miles.
• CPR/Wilderness First Aid is an asset but is not required.

Application Instructions

To apply, please submit a cover letter, resume, and two professional references by May 10, 2025. The anticipated start date is June 14, 2025.

The Research Foundation for SUNY is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.