Job Description:

Who we are:

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is committed to its mission “To ensure a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all.” Our agency embraces the insightful use of our natural resources to assure the continued safety, happiness and prosperity of Ohio’s people.

ODNR owns and manages state parks, state forests, state nature preserves and wildlife areas. We license all hunting, fishing and watercraft; oversee and permit all mineral extraction, monitor dam safety, manage water resources and serve as the second largest Law Enforcement presence in the State of Ohio.

We are accepting applications for a Naturalist within the Division of Parks & Watercraft, headquartered at Alum Creek State Park in Delaware county. The address is 3615 South Old State Road, Delaware, Ohio.  To learn more about the Division of Parks & Watercraft please visit Alum Creek State Park | Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ohiodnr.gov).

What you will do…

• Develop, plan & conduct interpretive & recreational programs for the general public & special interest groups;


• Lead visitors on excursions into the park & other ODNR properties;


• Plan & coordinate special events (e.g., workshops, community festivals);


• Coordinate volunteers related to educational programs; 


• Perform public relations & marketing activities.

What’s in it for you…

The State of Ohio offers an excellent benefits package which includes extensive medical, dental and vision insurance. At least a 14% employer contribution into your OPERS pension plan, Employee Tuition reimbursement program and much more.  To view all the benefits offered, please visit Total Rewards . 

We are ready for you!

We’re glad you’re interested in pursuing a rewarding career with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources!  Exploring and protecting the natural beauty of Ohio will prove to be the most enjoyable career opportunity you will ever find!

Official Position Description:

Researches, develops, plans & conducts interpretive & recreational programs (e.g., nature walks, night hikes, & presentations for general public/special interest groups, tours) about Ohio’s natural, historical & cultural heritage; conducts interpretive programs using live animals (e.g., reptiles, amphibians, insects); answers questions for public as related to interpretive programs & nature/visitor center;  interprets park regulations & takes proper safety precautions to lead youths & adults on excursions into park; plans & coordinates special events (e.g., workshops, fall campouts); acts as coordinator for scout groups, schools & clubs with park projects (e.g., trail development, habitat improvement projects); teaches fishing, archery, & paddling classes (e.g., canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboard) according to approved division curriculum & with attention to laws & proper safety precautions; evaluates programs & makes/suggests changes as needed; operates state vehicle to travel from area to area of the park, district, & state to perform job duties (e.g., travel to programs, attend meetings &/or trainings, transports/trailers equipment); coordinates volunteers related to educational programs (e.g., recruits, trains, schedules, gives direction); may prepare grant proposals relative to education programs; purchases equipment & material & conducts inventory; tracks attendance for grant purposes; may assist in search & rescue, if needed.

 

Develops & maintains displays & exhibits for use in educational programs & nature/visitor center; organizes & prepares brochures, interpretive park signs, & promotional publications; develops outreach materials for the public, other staff & volunteers including outlines, fact sheets & surveys.

 

May be responsible for daily care of live animals used in programs (e.g., feed animals, keeps cages & equipment clean & in working order); complies with state & federal housing & care requirements; provides for the health & safety of animals; consults with veterinarian when necessary; ensures park compliance with Division of Wildlife permits; notifies supervisor of issues.

 

Performs public relations/marketing activities & assists with statewide events, exhibits & shows (e.g., boat shows, state fair, trade shows); responds to inquiries about programs; makes television & radio appearances promoting state parks & park activities; participates in events statewide (e.g., festivals & state fair).

 

Assists in maintaining trails (e.g., picks up litter, removes fallen debris, reports hazards); maintains nature center, office space (e.g., empties trash, vacuums); maintains equipment used in programming (e.g., makes minor repairs such as filters, light bulbs).

UNUSUAL WORKING CONDITIONS:  Works outside exposed to weather, venomous reptiles, infectious animal bites or scratches & unpleasant odors

Completion of associate degree core coursework in natural sciences (e.g., biology, botany, zoology); valid driver’s license.

-Or 18 mos. trg. or 18 mos. exp. in preparing &/or presenting educational materials concerning wildlife & plants; 1 course or 3 mos. exp. in public relations; valid driver’s license.

-Or 12 mos. exp. as Naturalist Aide, 22540; valid driver’s license.

-Or equivalent of Minimum Class Qualifications for Employment noted above.

Salary: $21.00

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