Staff Naturalist - Oxbow Park

Minimum Qualifications of Education and Experience

Expected starting salary is $23.09 to $30.79. Full salary range is $23.09 to $38.52. 

Associate's degree from an accredited college in environmental education, environmental biology, animal husbandry or related natural sciences field and one (1) year of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.

OR

A combination of education and experience equivalent to three (3) years of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.

Regular and reliable attendance is a necessary component of job/position. Individuals required to use County vehicles and equipment must have a valid driver's license and be free of any major traffic violations for the last three (3) years.

Nature of Work

Examples of Work

• Feeds zoo stock, cleans exhibits, and monitors animal health at Zollman Zoo including working with all oversight agencies to maintain proper licenses and permits for safe and legal zoo operations.
• Prepares and presents environmental education programs. Conducts interpretive tours of the zoo and environmental areas.
• Trains and oversees seasonal staff, interns, volunteers, and work groups involved in all aspects of park operations.
• Provides customer services including payment processing for reservations and rentals.
• Assists in maintenance of all County Park facilities and grounds.
• Creates interpretive writing, displays, signs as well as manages website and social media accounts.
• Collaborates on the design and construction of interpretive and animal exhibits.
• Supports the parks division during emergency situations.
•  Performs other related duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required

• Knowledge of the care, feeding, and health requirements of zoo stock.
• Knowledge of the natural environment and biology.
• Knowledge of the biology of wildlife, ecosystems, animal husbandry and natural history.
• Knowledge of native and invasive plant and animal species, prairie propagation and restoration, forestry techniques, and erosion control principle and practices.
• Knowledge of the work hazards and applicable safety precautions associated with the operation of equipment.
• Skill in preparation and presentation of environmental education programs for all ages and education levels.
• Skill in working with and care for zoo stock.
• Skill in the use of computers and technology.
• Ability to communicate effectively with staff, volunteers, contractors, and all Park visitors when interacting and enforcing rules and regulations.
• Ability to resolve conflict with park users, volunteers, interns, and park staff.
• Ability to enforce park rules and regulations
• Ability to oversee the work of seasonal staff and volunteers.
• Ability to assess dangerous situations and make sound judgments to address the issues as trained.

Persons with disabilities: the above is a general listing of job duties. Essential and non-essential functions may vary by individual position. Reasonable accommodations may be available for both essential and non-essential job duties.