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, physical, occupational or recreational therapy, nursing, special education, outdoor recreation or related college program, or equivalent work experience.

Experience:  Previous work or volunteer experience working with individuals or groups of children with physical and/or cognitive disabilities preferred. Experience leading outdoor education programs for all ages required; previous experience as a counselor or naturalist at a children’s camp preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Demonstrated interest in and commitment to nature and the environment.

Demonstrated interest to work with individuals with or without disabilities.

Ability to lead high quality programs and varied activities with children that may have physical and/or cognitive disabilities.

Stand-up presentation and written communication skills.

Ability to assist with archery, canoe, kayak, stand up paddleboards, biking, hiking and camping programs following approved safety procedures with youth and adult audiences.

Computer skills in current technology.

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

Ability to drive a pick up 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.

Valid driver’s license.

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 1000 hours per season; May through August. 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; up to 50lb. with 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 Wildwood Preserve; will require travel to other parks.

REPORTS TO:  Manager of Requested Programs

DIRECT REPORTS:  None

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

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

• Serve as camp counselor for Metroparks summer day camp program for youth age 3 to 18.

• Develop a moderate understanding and ability to interpret Metroparks natural resources for all program areas.

• Under the direction of the Manager of Requested Programs, effectively prepare and facilitate high quality age-appropriate nature and environmental activities including nature walks, summer camps, school and outreach programs and other engaging programs.

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

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

• Assist in the daily operations of all phases of Summer Camp and/or educational programs including camper paperwork as required.

• Guide individual camper participation.

• Assist individuals with personal needs including dressing, dietary, toiletry and mobility (training provided).

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

• Attend all in-service training programs including CPR/First Aid certification and National Association of Interpretation Certification (CIG).

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

• Help plan and lead field trips for summer camp, school and adult program participants.

• Assist campers with field research projects such as observing and monitoring wildlife and plants. Record data and compile reports.

• Identify and coordinate adaptive equipment needed by campers and identify adaptations for games and activities.

• Serve as a member of the program department, providing assistance and leadership as needed.

• Assist with loading/unloading/launching paddlesports equipment, archery equipment, biking and camping equipment. Facilitate paddlesports and archery programs and maintain a safe program environment following established safety procedures.

• Assist Outdoor Skills staff with paddlesport, fishing, biking, and camping programming.

• Provide education to the public regarding the natural heritage of Northwest Ohio. 

• Evaluate and modify camp activities and programs based on audience needs or abilities in cooperation with other Metroparks Staff.

• Provide assistance in analyzing program data/feedback and recommending/implementing improvements to camp activities and programs.

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

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

• 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. 

Metroparks Toledo is an Equal Opportunity Employer