Parks Naturalist - Bowers Farm at Discovery Oaks

Overview & Benefits

Oakland County is more than just a workplace. It is a place where you can make a real difference. As one of Michigan's leading public service organizations, we are committed to strengthening communities, delivering essential services, and improving the quality of life for nearly 1.3 million residents.

When you join our team, you become part of a mission-driven workforce guided by integrity, innovation, and a passion for public service. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to do meaningful work that matters. Apply today and help shape the future of Oakland County, where we are All Ways Moving Forward.

For more information about Oakland County benefits and employee perks, please visit:

https://www.oakgov.com/government/human-resources/benefits/new-hire

General Summary

Location: Bloomfield Hills, MI

Compensation: $60,990 - $81,714

This position will lead Bowers Farm/Discovery Oaks programming.

Are you passionate about connecting people with agriculture, nature, and hands-on outdoor learning experiences?

Oakland County Parks and Recreation is seeking an enthusiastic and engaging Parks Naturalist to lead educational programming at Bowers Farm at Discovery Oaks. In this role, you''ll develop and deliver immersive farm- and nature-based learning experiences that inspire curiosity, foster environmental stewardship, and strengthen connections between residents and Oakland County''s natural and agricultural heritage.

As the onsite program leader, you''ll oversee daily programming, supervise staff and volunteers, and create memorable experiences that encourage visitors of all ages to explore, learn, and return.

What you''ll do:

• Develop and lead engaging farm- and nature-based educational programs for children, families, schools, and community groups
• Manage the day-to-day operation of programming at Bowers Farm at Discovery Oaks
• Supervise, train, and support part-time staff and volunteers to deliver exceptional visitor experiences
• Create hands-on learning opportunities that promote agriculture, ecology, environmental stewardship, and lifelong learning
• Ensure programs, facilities, and activities meet Oakland County Parks'' quality and safety standards
• Plan and support seasonal events, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives
• Evaluate program participation and visitor feedback to continuously improve learning experiences
• Utilize County software to coordinate programming, reporting, and daily operations

Why you''ll love it:

• Inspire children and families to connect with nature, agriculture, and the outdoors through engaging, hands-on experiences
• Lead programming at the 93 Acre Bowers Farm at Discovery Oaks, where learning comes to life through interactive education and exploration
• Enjoy a dynamic role that blends education, conservation, agriculture, leadership, and community engagement
• Work in unique outdoor settings where every season brings new opportunities for learning and discovery
• Help advance Oakland County Parks'' mission of building community connections, environmental stewardship, and year-round park engagement
• Join a passionate team dedicated to creating memorable experiences that enrich the lives of Oakland County residents

If you''re an educator, naturalist, or outdoor enthusiast who loves inspiring others through experiential learning and creating meaningful connections to nature and agriculture, we''d love to hear from you.

Minimum Qualifications

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS & ABILITIES

REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Possess a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in parks interpretation, outdoor education, the biological sciences or related field. NOTE: Applicants possessing transcripts from a college or university outside of the United States will be required to provide documentation of degree equivalency from a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (http://naces.org/members.html). The degree evaluation will be required for application processing.
• Have had at least two (2) years full-time professional work experience in a park's nature interpretation program.
• Possess a valid United States motor vehicle operator's or chauffer's license. Out of country driver's license holders will be required to obtain the appropriate valid State of Michigan driver's license before the hire date.
• Pass the complete examination, including the employment medical, established for this classification.
• Successfully complete the six month probationary period.

ADDITIONAL DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices used in developing and carrying out a diversified Interpretive Program.
• Considerable knowledge and appreciation of ideals and objectives of a planned nature program.
• Considerable ability to plan a budget, organize, coordinate and direct the activities and personnel involved in a well-rounded nature program.
• Considerable ability to direct the preparation of exhibits for the environmental programs and facilities, establish and label nature trails, and give lectures.
• Considerable ability to instruct groups in the fundamentals of natural sciences as applied to an Interpretive Program.
• Considerable ability to speak effectively before a variety of groups interested in the study of park environment.
• Ability to operate office equipment such as an adding machine and a typewriter, and considerable ability to operate motor vehicles such as a pick‑up truck and a van.
• Familiar with current word processing, spreadsheet, database, e-mail and Internet software.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must maintain a valid United States motor vehicle operator's or chauffeur's license.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

• Functions as a working supervisor, over a group of students, volunteers, part‑time and full‑time employees. Instructs, assigns, schedules, checks and appraises performance.
• Participates in decisions to hire, discipline, discharge, and award pay increases and/or promotions.
• Regularly performs same duties as employees supervised.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Plans and conducts organized lectures, answers public telephone inquiries and prepares illustrated brochures to promote public interest in nature programs offered by Parks & Recreation.
• Confers with Park Supervisors regarding the physical maintenance of nature trails, various environmental program facilities and park vehicles.
• Schedules and directs the interpretive nature program content, considering the park's seasonal attractions, special points of interest, and the Park Supervisor's guidelines.
• Discusses and plans future interpretive programs and improvements with the Chief - Recreation Program Services to ensure commission objectives are met.
• Conducts nature trail hikes, field trips, and lectures to youth groups to promote outdoor awareness.
• Recommends to administration an annual budget for the park's interpretive program in order to ensure adequate funding for current and planned activities.
• Surveys trails in the park to ensure nature signs and trail conditions are maintained. Designates new trail routes and locations.
• Collects field data regarding the composition of the park's flora and fauna as well as unique features in nature for programming.
• Writes trail guides and bird lists for the public's use on nature trails and in lectures and workshops.
• Utilizes current Countywide and/or department specific software to complete assignments.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assists in planning outdoor education workshops for teachers in order to promote professional development in outdoor education and instructs workshop sessions.

ESSENTIAL MENTAL & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to communicate to accurately convey information.
• Ability to coordinate communications for special events, tours, site reviews and other activities.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work normally carried out within a typical office environment as well as in an outdoor environment where there is exposure to weather conditions.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The primary purpose of this job description is to set a fair and equitable salary range for this job classification. Generally, only those key duties necessary for proper job evaluation and/or labor market analysis have been included. Other duties and responsibilities will be assigned by the supervisor.

Additional Minimum Qualifications

Union*

BU99 - United Auto Workers (UAW) Local 889: Parks and Recreation Non-Sup (UAW)

• If applicable

EEO Statement

We are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances.

Inclusion Statement

Oakland County is committed to welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, including those with prior convictions, as we believe in providing equal opportunities for all. We value the unique perspectives and experiences each individual brings to our team and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace. If you have the skills and qualifications for the position, we encourage you to apply. All candidates are evaluated based on their ability to meet the job requirements, legal obligations and thrive in our organization. All ways, MOVING FORWARD.