POSITION GOAL: To provide positive, engaging and educational experiences for Metroparks visitors and program participants of all ages to promote a high level of community connection to natural parks and open spaces. 

CLASSIFICATION:  Hourly/Seasonal

COMPENSATION:  $12.00 per hour.  Employer and employee contribute to Public Employees Retirement System.

MINIMUM POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Alternates to the following position requirements may be made as Metroparks finds appropriate and acceptable.

Education:  Must have completed sophomore year towards college degree in environmental science, biology, education, outdoor recreation or related college program, or equivalent work experience.

Experience:  Previous work or volunteer experience working with groups of children and experience leading outdoor education programs for all ages required; experience leading outdoor recreation trips or programs preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Must be at least 18 years of age.

• Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record.

Demonstrated interest in and commitment to nature and the environment.

Ability to lead high quality programs and varied activities with children and adults.

Stand-up presentation and written communication skills.

Ability to teach safe boating skills to youth and adults.

Computer skills in current technology.

Demonstrated knowledge of and ability to interpret local natural habitats, animals and plants.

Ability to drive a pickup truck towing a (25’) trailer and/or drive a 14 passenger minibus (training provided).

Willingness and ability to provide excellent customer service.

Ability to work effectively and productively in a team environment.

Behavioral Characteristics:

• Commitment to fulfilling work responsibilities in a reliable and timely manner.

• Willingness to learn and put to use new skills and knowledge.

• Dependable with a high degree of integrity.

• Able to work effectively with minimal supervision.

• Commitment to providing excellent customer service.

• Always treats people with respect and consideration without regard to race, gender, ethnicity, age, religion, social or economic status, etc.

• Ability to be flexible in daily operations, adjusting to changing conditions and solving problems.

• Demonstrate appropriate level of responsibility for safe use of equipment; avoids damage or loss of resources through negligence or recklessness.

• Demonstrate behaviors that align with the Metroparks Way. 

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements:

• Work schedule:  Up to 40 hours per week, not to exceed 1456 hours per season; May through August, with possible extension through October. May include weekends, evenings, and holidays.

• May require overnight stay once a month for tent camping. 

• Requires lifting and carrying up to 25 lb. without assistance; will work mostly outdoors in most weather conditions; able to lead varied activities with children and adults.

• Ability to successfully complete CPR/First Aid training.

• May require business use of personal vehicle.

• Location:  Primarily Oak Openings Metropark; will require travel to other parks or locations in Lucas County.

REPORTS TO:  Manager of Public Programs

DIRECT REPORTS:  None

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead high quality educational programming by interpreting natural, historical, and cultural resources of Metroparks and the northwest Ohio region as directed by Metroparks staff.

• Under the direction of the Outdoor Skills Manager and Director of Programs, effectively prepare and facilitate high quality age-appropriate nature based outdoor skills activities including archery, paddling (canoeing, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding), fishing, hiking, biking, tent camping, and other engaging programs.

• Teach and monitor safe boating practices with program participants.

• Be a positive role model when leading campers and high school-aged Counselors-in-Training. 

• Provide assistance to Metroparks Staff in assessing and adjusting camp activities.

• Prepare and write accurate and creative lesson plans and other printed materials.

• Assist with daily maintenance of facilities and teaching areas, equipment and supplies. Includes sweeping,mopping, and restroom and litter clean up.

• Transport visitors through the parks driving a Metroparks pickup truck towing a 25’ tram/trailer and/or drive a 14 passenger minibus (training provided).

• Attend all in-service training programs including CPR/First Aid certification.

• Help maintain a safe environment for park visitors, program participants and in park campers at all times.

• Coordinate with staff to train volunteers and effectively direct the work of volunteers.

• With training provided, transport visitors through the parks using several different types of vehicles.

• Other work related duties as assigned.

EQUIPMENT USED: Art and nature equipment and supplies, computers and general office equipment, cameras, general cleaning supplies, hand tools, canoes, kayaks, stand up paddleboards, fishing poles, archery equipment; Metroparks vehicles and trailers, etc.

Metroparks Toledo is an Equal Opportunity Employer