Seasonal Naturalist

We respect and embrace the experiences, knowledge and contributions of our team members. We strive for a culture of belonging and balance by upholding our values : stewardship, integrity, collaboration, respect and innovation. We are passionate about Missouri, our role to preserve, protect and enhance our environment and we are committed to serving its’ citizens. We believe our mission and vision serves a greater purpose and will be felt for generations to come.

This position will be located at Cuivre River State Park, 678 State Route 147, Troy, Missouri. This position will assist with conducting interpretive programs, and assist staff in preserving and protecting the natural ecosystem of the park.

The duration of the assignment will be April through November of 2025 and will be working some weekends and holidays. If the chosen candidate is in school, we will work with the candidates’ availability during the assignment period.

• Prepare and conduct interpretive natural/cultural history programs for groups of all ages and sizes.
• Assist naturalist with updating and maintaining the visitor center exhibits.
• Partake in stewardship opportunities, such as removing invasive species and flora/fauna surveys within the park.
• Provide excellent customer service to park visitors.
• Expected to work some weekends, holidays, and evenings.

To be successful in this position, a candidate will need the following skills:

• Interpretation (Resources): Ability to coordinate, manage and direct interpretive or educational programing related to natural or cultural resources in a way that conveys significance to visitors; connecting them to personal relevance, shared learning, meeting specific learning objectives (i.e. educator or community needs), informing public about compliance and safety, supporting management of natural or cultural resources representative of national heritage, and enhancing mutual understanding for individual and social benefit.
• Stewardship (Resources) : Basic knowledge of the concepts, principles, and theories of natural and cultural features along with special ecological stewardship requirements; capable of gaining experience in performing stewardship tasks required for strenuous outdoor work; ability to appear before the public, makes clear and convincing oral presentations; give out general information, conduct interpretive educational programs and conduct tours about natural and cultural history in an effective way; assist in supervising, recruiting, training and evaluating seasonal and volunteer staff.
• Computer Skills : Uses computers, software applications, databases, and automated systems to accomplish work.
• Flexibility : Is open to change and new information; rapidly adapts to new information, changing conditions, or unexpected obstacles.
• Teamwork : Encourages and facilitates cooperation, pride, trust, and group identity; fosters commitment and team spirit; works with others to achieve goals.

Preferred Qualifications/Experience/Special Job Requirements:

• Experience public speaking.
• Experience with power equipment (i.e. weed eater, chainsaw, backpack sprayers, etc.) preferred [Needed trainings will be provided].
• Ability to identify native, exotic, and invasive wildlife and plants.
• Attending a college or university with at least a freshman standing and majoring in any of the natural sciences (ecology, biology, wildlife biology, botany, fisheries, etc.), outdoor recreation, or environmental education.

Lack of post-secondary education will not be used as the sole basis denying consideration to any applicant.

• Ability to give successful programs based on the National Association of Interpretation standards.
• Attend Spring Interpretive Training, May 18-21, where you will join informative sessions, network with peers, and participate in team building.
• Ability to perform natural resource management best practices.
• Ability to identify native and exotic plants.
• Ability to operate and maintain common equipment utilized in the field of conservation.

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• State of Missouri

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