Seasonal Naturalist

Organization

Montana Natural History Center

Job Posted

November 26, 2024

Job status

Job Category

Job Type

Job Duration

Job Compensation Type

Remote

No

Contact Name

Fern Bodnar

Contact Email

fbodnar@montananaturalist.org

Contact Phone

406.541.8689

Deadline to Apply

Location

Montana Natural History Center
Missoula, MT
United States
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 fullday Summer Outdoor Discovery Day Camps at the Montana Natural History Center. Seasonal Naturalists will facilitate and lead various activities and themed camps, connect youth to nature, and explore the outdoors with children in pre-k through 5th grade. The week of July 4th will be an unpaid week off. Opportunity for Internship credit available if desired.

Summary

AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

I. Specific Responsibilities:

a) Maintain MNHC’s expectations for safety, education, and positive group dynamics.
b) Facilitate and build Summer Camp activities and schedule as assigned.
c) Actively engage with campers throughout the normal camp day and during before- and after-care as scheduled.
d) Communicate effectively, professionally, and positively with guardians, MNHC staff, and campers on daily successes and challenges.
e) Maintain program supplies and participate in keeping camp and storage areas organized.
f) Supervise before- and after-care activities as scheduled to provide a safe and positive environment for children and build trust with their guardians.
g) Work alongside a co-instructor to supervise, mentor, and lead activities for groups of up to 13 campers.
h) Create a fun and educational camp week schedule with activities and lessons that will be available to you.
i) Build positive group dynamics and ensure a safe and fun learning environment.
j) Engage in reflective teaching practices, work towards skill building for yourself, and support staff and campers in their growth.
k) 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.)

II. Required Qualifications:

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

III. Additional Desired Qualifications:

a) 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.
b) Practical knowledge of methodologies in science and natural history education.
c) Knowledge of local Montana flora and fauna.
d) WFR, Lifeguard, and/or additional safety certifications.

To apply, please send the following to the Museum Youth Programs Coordinator, Fern Bodnar, at fbodnar@montananaturalist.org.

Resume

Cover letter

List of three professional references.

Hiring ASAP. Accepting applications until positions are filled.

Visit www.montananaturalist.org for more information about the Montana Natural History Center. 

Compensation Information

  • $15.75 - $17.00/hr
  • May 26, 2025 - August 22, 2025
  • Unpaid week off for all Seasonal Naturalist staff available June 30th - July 4th