Outdoor Skills Assistant

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:  $13.00 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:      High School Diploma or equivalent.

Experience:     No prior work experience required.

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 assist in 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.

· Ability to drive a pickup truck towing a (36’) trailer and/or drive an 11 passenger van (training   provided).

· Willingness and ability to provide excellent customer service.

· Ability to work effectively and productively in a team environment.

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements:

·Work schedule:  Up to 40 hours per week, not to exceed 1456 hours per season; April through October, with part-time possible extension through December. May include weekends, evenings, and holidays.

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

·Requires lifting and carrying up to 45 lbs. without assistance; 90 lbs. 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 and personal phone.

·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:

·Assist year round staff in 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 assist facilitation in high quality age-appropriate nature based outdoor skills activities including archery, tree climbing, paddling (canoeing, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding), fishing, hiking, biking, tent camping, and other engaging programs.

·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.

·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 truck towing a 25’ tram/trailer and/or drive an 11 passenger van (training provided). Transport equipment using a variety of trucks and trailers up to 36 feet long (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.

·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, tree climbing equipment, camping and backpacking gear, fishing poles, archery equipment, adaptive equipment, mountain bikes and ramps, mobile rock climbing wall and equipment; Metroparks vehicles and trailers, etc.

Metroparks Toledo is committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff, honoring your experiences, perspectives and unique identity. We are committed to sustaining a working and learning environment which is inclusive, equitable and welcoming.