Naturalist

Responsibilities:

• Land Stewardship and Property Management:
  
   
  • Oversee daily operations and maintenance of the 33-acre property, ensuring that trails, gardens, and natural outdoor classroom are well-maintained and safe.
  • Develop and implement sustainable land management plans, focusing on conservation and ecological restoration.
  • Conduct routine inspections of the property and address any immediate needs for repairs or improvements.
  • Manage plant and wildlife monitoring programs.
  • Supervise any seasonal or volunteer staff related to property care and maintenance.

  • Provide educational outreach and guidance to Borough residents on matters including:

    • Plant and woodland health, pests and disease, wildlife and habitat
    • Planting and maintaining native trees/shrubs/flowers; conversion of lawn to meadow
    • Water quality

• Environmental Education:
  
   
  • Oversee and manage the education department.
  • Develop and lead educational programs and nature walks for school groups (3rd grade and up), families, and visitors of all ages.
  • Create educational materials, exhibits, and displays to increase public awareness of local ecosystems and species.
  • Organize events such as wildlife monitoring, native plant identification, and nature conservation workshops.
  • Facilitate educational and experimental projects proposed by local schools/universities and environmental organizations for educational partnerships and volunteer programs within the Borough Park system. 
  • Provide support to local conservation organizations for projects in the Little Sewickley Creek Watershed and the Sewickley Valley.
    • Little Sewickley Creek Watershed Association, Allegheny Land Trust, Western PA Conservancy, neighboring municipalities, etc.

• Community Engagement:
  
   
  • Foster a welcoming and educational environment for visitors.
  • Foster relationships with local community groups and schools. 
  • Represent FHNC in partnering with environmental organizations and government agencies and serve as the liaison between local conservation groups.
  • Develop community events, ex. Earth Day events, for the Borough of Sewickley Heights to provide residents with the opportunity to participate in activities that benefit their community and interact with Elected Officials and Staff.
  • Serve as an in-house resource for plan review and discussion of projects moving through the Historical Architectural Review Board (HARB) process as needed. 
  • Serve as a consultant, as needed, for the Borough Park Commission tasked to oversee the management of the Park and provide decision support to Borough Council on all matters park-related.
  • As requested, participate in developing resource management strategies for the Park and offer insight and recommendations to the Director of Parks and Public Works.
  • Serve on Sewickley Heights Borough’s Environmental Advisory Council, as needed.
  • Promote the property’s environmental initiatives and events through social media, newsletters, and other channels.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences, Environmental Science, Ecology, Natural Resource Management, or related field.
• Proven experience in land management, natural resource conservation, and environmental education.
• At least three (3) years of experience in one of the following areas or a combination of the following:  Natural resource management, Land Management, or Environmental education. 
• Knowledge of regional flora and fauna, ecological systems, and conservation techniques.
• Experience in outdoor programming, public speaking, and group facilitation.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Basic computer skills
• Ability to perform physical tasks associated with property management, including light landscaping and trail maintenance.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple responsibilities.
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).

How to Apply:
Please send your resume, cover letter, and three references to sam@fhnc.org. In your cover letter, explain why you are passionate about conservation and education and how your skills align with the responsibilities of this role.