Part-time Lead Park Naturalist

Prospect Park Alliance is currently seeking applicants for a part-time, year-round Park Naturalist position for the Prospect Park Audubon Center. The Audubon Center is a cornerstone of high quality environmental education programs for children and adults in Brooklyn.  Through a partnership between Prospect Park Alliance and Audubon New York, the Center demonstrates to its visitors and program participants the importance of Prospect Park as a community resource and as bird and wildlife habitat.

The Lead Park Naturalist reports to the Prospect Park Audubon Center Public Programs Manager and is responsible for assuring that the Pop-Up Audubon program goals are met. The Lead Park Naturalist leads a team of Naturalists, Park Youth Representatives and volunteers. During the Pop-Up Audubon season (April–September), the Lead Park Naturalist works Friday–Sunday. During the off-season this person will work Wednesday–Friday, including some evenings and public school holidays. The position is part-time, 21 hours per week and pays $19 per hour.

The Lead Park Naturalist will:

  • Assist in the recruiting and training of teen and adult staff as well as volunteers.
  • Supervise program staff.
  • Serve as the lead educator during outdoor weekend programs.
  • Manage the set-up, running and break-down of Pop-Up Audubon on Sat and Sun.
  • Support program development during off-season (January–April; October–December).
  • Assist in caring for animals exhibited at the Prospect Park Audubon Center.

Qualifications for the Lead Park Naturalist include:

  • Bachelor’s degree in biology, environmental education, environmental studies, or related field (or equivalent experience).
  • 1-3 years non-formal education experience in a public programs setting (nature center, environmental education center, or science center preferred).
  • 1 year supervisory experience.
  • Excellent public presentation and communication skills (written and oral).
  • Understanding of and commitment to conservation and environmental awareness, as well as wonder and appreciation for the natural world is a must.
  • The ability to work weekends, holidays and some evenings.
  • The candidate must have experience working with teens. This position requires a background check.
  • Able to lift 20 lbs and work in all weather conditions.
  • Ability to use power tools, hand tools and assist with building projects preferred.
  • Valid license to drive in New York state and a willingness to do so.
  • Candidates must be customer service-oriented and possess the desire and ability to work with diverse audiences. The ideal candidate takes initiative, is good at problem-solving and is also a team player.

Schedule

The schedule during the Pop-up season (April–September) is Friday to Sunday, and during the off season it is Wednesday–Friday, or as required. This is also a seasonal part-time position, working 21 hours per week.

How to Apply:

Please send resume and cover letter to job101@prospectpark.org.
Please, no phone calls. Although we appreciate your interest, we will only contact applicants we are considering for interview.

The Alliance is committed to creating an inclusive employee experience for all. Regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, disability, or if you’re parenting the next generation, we firmly believe that our work is at its best when everyone feels free to be their most authentic self.