Naturalist

The Highlands Biological Foundation is recruiting a Naturalist to support our summer programming at the Highlands Nature Center. Tucked into a temperate rainforest at the southern edge of the Appalachians, the Highlands Nature Center is part of the Highlands Biological Station, a multi-campus center of Western Carolina University. During the summer it reaches more than 10,000 residents and visitors from across the country. In addition to natural history exhibits, staff offer free daily and weekly programs for the public, weeklong summer camps, and special events. Programs take place in the Highlands Nature Center and adjoining 11-acre Botanical Garden.

Primary responsibilities include:
• Opening, staffing, and closing the Nature Center
• Interpreting the natural history of the southern Appalachians and related exhibits for the general public
• Developing and presenting environmental educational programs for diverse audiences (e.g. garden tours, creature features, library programs)
• Assisting with special events and evening programs for the general public
• Answering questions about local natural areas and recreational opportunities
• Feeding and handling live exhibit animals (primarily reptiles and amphibians)
• Cleaning animal enclosures

Other duties include:
• Handling transactions in the Gift Shop
• Cleaning and maintaining the Nature Center
• Driving state and passenger vehicles
• Setting up and operating A/V systems
• Supporting additional Nature Center programming as necessary