Interpretive Naturalist Volunteer - Summer 2017
Cama Beach State Park, Camano Island, WA 98282
Closing date: March 15, 2017
Download Position Description (a WordDoc)
Duties
The summer interpretive naturalist volunteer will serve with the education staff and volunteers at Cama Beach and Camano Island State Parks on the shore of Saratoga Passage. The volunteer will lead outdoor discovery experiences and experiential education in a busy, fast-paced environment. The volunteer will also have the opportunity to develop a capstone project. The majority of programs will be targeted at children ages 4-12 but teens, adults, and seniors are also often in the audience. The summer interpretive naturalist volunteer will assist staff in developing and maintaining education materials, and presenting evening programs. The volunteer’s role will be to create a sense of stewardship and to provide youth and adults with opportunities to enjoy the rich legacy of Washington State Parks.
Reports to
State Parks’ Interpretive Specialist (who is under the general supervision of the State Parks Area Manager).
Responsibilities
This position provides the successful candidate with up to 400 hours of experience. A stipend for out of pocket expenses of up to $1,000.00 will be provided by Cama Beach Foundation. Free housing will be provided at Cama Beach State Park.
Duties
The summer interpretive naturalist volunteer will serve with the education staff and volunteers at Cama Beach and Camano Island State Parks on the shore of Saratoga Passage. The volunteer will lead outdoor discovery experiences and experiential education in a busy, fast-paced environment. The volunteer will also have the opportunity to develop a capstone project. The majority of programs will be targeted at children ages 4-12 but teens, adults, and seniors are also often in the audience. The summer interpretive naturalist volunteer will assist staff in developing and maintaining education materials, and presenting evening programs. The volunteer’s role will be to create a sense of stewardship and to provide youth and adults with opportunities to enjoy the rich legacy of Washington State Parks.
Reports to
State Parks’ Interpretive Specialist (who is under the general supervision of the State Parks Area Manager).
Responsibilities
- Lead or assist with seven or more programs per week including interpretive tours, nature and science programs, Junior Ranger programs, craft and historic skills programs.
- Lead naturalist hikes over uneven terrain in a variety of weather conditions.
- Educate and inspire people of all ages and walks of life about temperate rainforest habitats and marine ecosystems.
- Ensure that all activities on the Cama Beach Foundation “Calendar of Events” are accurate for the week ahead.
- Performs routine maintenance of interpretive facilities and displays, including light cleaning.
- Conducts extensive materials preparation.
- Submit a volunteer timesheet and provide written feedback about the programs and volunteer experience at the end of each month.
- Energetic, creative individual with high level of self-motivation. Good organizational skills. Excellent communication skills. Creativity and new ideas are encouraged.
- 2 years of college or equivalent practical experience.
- Helpful background and experience include: experience as an educator (formal or informal), experience interacting with the public, experience as a nature interpreter or guide.
- Ability to lift 40 lbs. Ability to hike over uneven terrain in all weather conditions.
- The normal schedule is Thursday through Monday and 40 hours per week. The volunteer may be asked to serve some evenings and during the Independence Day weekend.
- Must be able to begin volunteering by Thursday, June 22. Must serve through Monday, August 28. (The first day can be as early as Thursday, June 15; the last day can be as late as Monday, September 11).
- Knowledge of the flora and fauna of the Puget Sound region desired.
- Ability to serve cohesively as a member of the Cama Beach State Park team.
- Ability to maintain composure if exposed to negative comments from the public.
- Must have a valid driver’s license.
This position provides the successful candidate with up to 400 hours of experience. A stipend for out of pocket expenses of up to $1,000.00 will be provided by Cama Beach Foundation. Free housing will be provided at Cama Beach State Park.
TO APPLY
Please send a one-page cover letter indicating interest in this position and a one-page resume including three references.
Applications accepted beginning February 14, 2017.
Closing date: March 15, 2017.
Please send a one-page cover letter indicating interest in this position and a one-page resume including three references.
Applications accepted beginning February 14, 2017.
Closing date: March 15, 2017.
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Updated February 16, 2017
