Naturalist

Choteau, Montana (MT) 

The Nature Conservancy is the leading conservation organization working to make a positive impact around the world in more than 30 countries, all 50 United States, and your backyard. Founded in 1951, the mission of The Nature Conservancy is to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends. Visit www.nature.org/aboutus to learn more.
TNC

The Naturalist is responsible for leading educational outings for the guests of Pine Butte Guest Ranch. This position works closely with the guests to insure their safety and comfort while on these outings. The Naturalist is under the supervision of the Ranch Manager. The functions of this position focus on designing and leading all natural history programs, workshops, and tours for ranch guests. This requires close contact with people of all ages, the general public, as well as other ranch staff.  The duties of the Naturalist also include the following functions:

• Lead and co-lead hikes and van excursions, which focus on various aspects of local natural history.
• Providing information to Pine Butte Guest Ranch guests on native flora, a wide spectrum of wildlife, local ecology, geology, field ornithology, and other natural history subjects. 
• Facilitatinghikes, van excursions, field trips, slide shows, and other natural history activities.
• Familiarizing ranch guests with The Nature Conservancy and its goals on Pine Butte Swamp Preserve and along the Rocky Mountain Front.
• Assisting Ranch staff with various ranch chores as assigned by the ranch manager, including but not limited to, weed management, gardening, transportation of guests, and other miscellaneous tasks.
• Contributing to a friendly, warm ranch atmosphere.
• Periodically assist the Family Programs Coordinator with programs.
• Will be working with the public and must present a professional image at all times.
• Positive “Can Do” attitude and excellent team player skills.
• Perform other tasks as assigned.

• BA/BS/AS/Technical or vocational degree in wildlife biology, forestry, botany or other related field or equivalent work/practical experience.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• BA/BS/AS/Technical or vocational degree in wildlife biology, forestry, botany or other related field or equivalent work experience.
• Previous experience in leading hikes up to 10 miles in length through mountainous terrain at altitudes of up to 9,000’ while instructing, educating and entertaining guests.
• Guest or customer service and/or horsemanship experience a plus.
• First Aid and CPR certification (may be obtained after hire).
• WFR preferred but not required.
• Ability to recognize plant and animal species and inform guest about their characteristics.
• Knowledge of current trends and practices in conservation, land management and natural resource preservation.
• Completing tasks independently.
• Managing time and diverse activities under deadlines while delivering quality results.
• Working knowledge of common software applications (e.g.; Word, Excel, Web browsers). 
• Excellent communication, presentation and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.

• Employment duration of this position is May 12, 2014 – October 4, 2014.
• Residence on the Ranch in Conservancy housing is a requirement of the position.

AUTO SAFETY POLICY

This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with the Conservancy's Auto Safety Program.  Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers."  Please see further details in the Auto Safety Program document available at www.nature.org/careers. 

Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL EFFORT

The Naturalist may work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances. These conditions:

• May require considerable physical exertion.
• Present possibility of injury.
• Require long hours including weekends and holidays in an isolated setting.
• Residence on the Guest Ranch property is required.  Meals are provided.

The Nature Conservancy offers competitive compensation, 401k or savings-plan matching for eligible employees, excellent benefits, flexible work policies and a collaborative work environment. We also provide professional development opportunities and promote from within. As a result, you will find a culture that supports and inspires conservation achievement and personal development, both within the workplace and beyond.
TNC

To apply to position number 41694, submit resume and cover letter as one document. All applications must be submitted in the system prior to 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on January 19, 2014.

Failure to complete all of the required fields may result in your application being disqualified from consideration.

You must click “submit” to apply for the position. You may select “save for later” if you prefer to create a draft application for future submission. Once submitted, applications cannot be revised or edited.

If you are experiencing technical issues, please refer to our applicant user guide or contactapplyhelp@tnc.org.

The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  Women, minorities, veterans and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancy’s background screening process