Naturalist

Naturalist

Salary

$18.00 - $24.00 Hourly

Location

Croydon Creek Nature Center - 852 Avery Rd Rockville, MD 20851, MD

Job Type

Temporary

Job Number

202600089

Department

Department of Recreation and Parks

Division

Croydon Creek Nature Center

Opening Date

08/03/2026

Closing Date

11/1/2026 11:59 PM Eastern

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Job Summary

Croydon Creek Nature Center is seeking an enthusiastic and engaging Naturalist to join our education team. The ideal candidate has knowledge of Marylands native flora and fauna, experience leading environmental education programs and a passion for connecting people of all ages with the natural world. Responsibilities include developing and presenting educational programs, caring for a collection of native animal ambassadors, including amphibians, turtles, snakes and an owl, and supporting the daily operations of a busy public nature center. This position involves working both indoors and outdoors in a variety of weather conditions throughout the year.

This is a year-round, temporary part-time (non-benefitted) position. Hours typically range from 12-20 per week depending on seasonal programming needs and include approximately 3-5 weekend days per month.

Essential Job Functions

Under the direction of Nature Center supervisors, responsibilities include:

• Develop and present environmental education programs for schools, scouts, families, adults and the public.

• Plan and lead at least two week-long nature-based summer day camps.

• Provide daily care for the Nature Centers live native animal collection, including amphibians, reptiles and other animal ambassadors.

• Provide excellent customer service over the phone and in person.

• Process program registrations, payments and daily reports using the Citys registration system.

• Handle cash and credit card transactions.

• Assist with volunteer training and supervision.

• Assist with special events and seasonal programs as assigned.

• Work independently and collaboratively with staff and volunteers to support the Nature Centers mission and daily operations.

Qualifications

Qualifications/Skills

• Excellent public speaking and presentation skills.

• Ability to communicate effectively with children, adults and diverse audiences.

• Strong organizational and time-management skills.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

• Basic computer proficiency, including Microsoft Office.

• Ability to safely handle native reptiles and amphibians (or willingness to be trained).

• Ability to obtain CPR/AED/First Aid certification.

• Valid drivers license preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to walk over uneven natural terrain and lead hikes outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.

• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds.

• Ability to stand for extended periods while teaching programs or caring for animals.

• Ability to safely handle live animals after training.

• Ability to work evenings and weekends, as needed.

Experience

• Experience developing and leading environmental education, interpretive or outdoor recreation programs.

• Experience working with children and families.

• Experience caring for live animals or willingness to learn.

• Experience working with volunteers is a plus.

Education

Bachelors degree in environmental science, biology, environmental education, natural resources, education or a related field preferred. Equivalent combinations of education and relevant experience will also be considered.

No Benefits

01

What age groups have you taught or worked with?

• 5-7 year olds
• 8-10 year olds
• 11-14 year olds
• Adults

02

Why are you interested in working at Croydon Creek Nature Center?

03

What do you consider your greatest strengths as an environmental educator?

04

Describe your experience caring for live animals. Please include the types of animals and your responsibilities.

05

Are you CPR/AED and First Aid certified? If yes, please provide the expiration date.

06

Is there anything else you would like us to know?

Required Question

Employer City of Rockville

Address 111 Maryland Ave

Rockville, Maryland, 20850

Phone (240) 314-8470

Website http://agency.governmentjobs.com/rockville/default.cfm