Working Title: Interpret Naturalist 1-IntermittentJob Class: Interpretive Naturalist 1Agency: Minnesota Zoological Garden
Job ID : 80385
Location : Apple Valley
Telework Eligible : No
Full/Part Time : Intermittent
Regular/Temporary : Unlimited
Who May Apply : Open to all qualified job seekers
Date Posted : 09/25/2024
Closing Date : open until filled
Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit : Minnesota Zoological Garden / Zoo Gardens-Insuff Wk Tm
Division/Unit : Learning and Engagement/Education
Work Shift :Days and Hours will vary and could be daytime, evening, weekends, or overnights
Travel Required : No
Salary Range: $23.63 - $34.18 / hourly
Classified Status : Classified
Bargaining Unit/Union : 218 - Insufficient Work Time/Unrep
FLSA Status : Nonexempt
Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities (https://mn.gov/mmb/careers/diverse-workforce/people-with-disabilities/connect700/) : Yes
The work you'll do is more than just a job.At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.This is a permanent position with a fluctuating work schedule. Days and Hours will vary and could be daytime, evening, weekends, or overnights.Join an exciting and unique organization with a mission to connect people, animals, and the natural world to save wildlife . We are seeking a passionate Interpretive Naturalist to join our busy and growing team.To assist in the development and implementation of education programs which could include (but are not restricted to) zoo camps, public programs, early childhood, family, adult, and school programs. This position is also responsible for promoting the importance of conservation, and the Minnesota Zoo’s mission of connecting people, animals, and the natural world to save wildlife.Duties include but are not limited to:
Present established education programs in a professional, high-quality manner according to the appropriate curricula and established lesson plans.
Assist in the development, implementation, and evaluation of education programs as needed ensuring that education programs are of the highest quality and convey conservation, ecological, and natural history information in an effective, fun and engaging way.
Integrate Conservation messages into all education programming and experiences so participants are able to act on behalf of wildlife.
Perform other duties as assigned to ensure the smooth functioning of the department and maintain the reputation of the organization as a viable business partner.
Minimum QualificationsThe following qualifications are required of all applicants seeking consideration for this position. Only applicants whose application materials clearly demonstrate fulfillment of each of these minimum qualifications will be considered for the position. To facilitate proper crediting, please ensure that your resume clearly describes your experience in the areas listed and indicates the beginning and ending month and year for each job held.
Two (2) years’ experience developing and/or implementing environmental/nature, socio-cultural, historical, or closely related programs at a zoo, nature center, or aquarium.
OR
Two (2) years’ experience as a teacher in a formal educational setting teaching biology, life science, or closely related course.
Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Zoology, Ecology, Wildlife Management, Natural Interpretation, Education, or closely related field may substitute for 6 months of experience. Transcripts will be requested if invited to interview.
Preferred Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Zoology, Ecology, Wildlife Management, Natural Interpretation, Education, or closely related field.
Demonstrated knowledge of and proven experience in environmental, experiential and/or outdoor learning theory and methodology.
Evidence of exceptional interpersonal skills.
Superior oral and written communication skills.
Excellent teaching and presentation skills, practices, and processes.
Knowledge of zoology, biology, life sciences and environmental sciences.
Knowledge of conservation, wildlife biology, and sustainability issues.
Knowledge of the Minnesota Zoo operational services, philosophy, objectives, and guidelines.
Physical Requirements
Ability to stand for long periods of time and walk long distances on uneven terrain.
Ability to carry and use two-way portable radios to communicate with all zoo staff.
Flexible availability including weekdays, weekends, and evenings.
Additional RequirementsApplicants must have the ability to meet the physical requirements and work in the environmental conditions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodations.In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.It is policy of the Minnesota Zoo that all candidates submit to a background check prior to employment. The background check may consist of the following components:
Conflict of Interest Review
Criminal History Check including fingerprinting
Education Verification
Employment Reference / Records Check
License / Certification Verification
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERMinnesota State Colleges and Universities is an Equal Opportunity employer/educator committed to the principles of diversity. We prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their race, sex, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or membership in a local commission as defined by law. As an affirmative action employer, we actively seek and encourage applications from women, minorities, persons with disabilities, and individuals with protected veteran status.Reasonable accommodations will be made to all qualified applicants with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance or cannot access the online job application system, please contact the job information line at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us . Please indicate what assistance is needed.