Naturalist

Ready to dive into epic outdoor adventures and make a positive impact on the environment? Look no further than the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) - the oldest conservation, education, and recreation organization in the USA!  Our passion for the outdoors knows no bounds, and we want YOU to be a part of it. As an employee, you'll unlock access to exciting programs, policies, and procedures that empower you to make a real difference. Join the AMC team now and embark on the journey of a lifetime! 

Dates: May 1 - Oct 15 2024 

The Interpretive Naturalist is responsible for initiating on-site interpretive programs at Reeves Meadow Visitor Center and in other designated areas in Harriman State Park. Duties include regularly scheduled presentations at facilities and informal table talks to provide information about the ecology, wildlife, trails, and recreation destinations within Harriman State Park.  

Daily responsibilities include program delivery, promoting programs, organizing interpretive materials, maintaining interpretive materials and outdoor presentation area, maintaining associated records, and performing all other duties and roles as assigned at the Visitor Centers and other sites. AMC depends on this individual as part of the staff at Reeves Meadow Visitor Center to represent our organization and provide educational and enjoyable outdoor experiences for all visitors.   

This position requires excellent guest service skills, local outdoor recreation experience, and a commitment to the goals of AMC. Candidates with local knowledge of Harriman State Park, interpretive skills, and a background in outdoor recreation and environmental education are strongly preferred.   

What you’ll be doing at AMC 

• Deliver engaging presentations on natural and cultural history topics pertaining to Harriman State Park.  

• Operate AMC vehicle to travel between locations within Harriman State Park for programs.  

• Collaborate with AMC volunteers. 

• Promote AMC surveys to collect data of visitors in Harriman State Park.  

• Record number of patrons that engage with programs being delivered.  

• Daily data entry of program participants. 

• Create educational programs pertaining to regional flora and fauna and safe practices of various outdoor recreation activities. 

• Report trail conditions during inclement weather. 

• Provide knowledge of orienteering on regional trails throughout Harriman State Park.  

• Ability to interpret natural phenomena encountered by visitors during outdoor recreation activities.  

• Promote AMC science research and development to visitors.  

• Patriciate in youth education outreach by distributing AMC junior naturalist books.  

• Refer visitors to proper state agency personnel during emergencies.  

• Maintain daily records of materials provided by AMC.  

• Assist with customer service at AMC visitor centers and all other duties as assigned.  

• Perform all other roles at AMC locations as assigned.  

What AMC is looking for     

• Applicants must be at least 21 years of age   

• Bachelor of Science Degree in a related field is preferred  

• Program development and presentation experience required.   

• Outdoor recreation experience required.   

• Friendly, outgoing manner and commitment to public service and hospitality.   

• Ability to work independently.  

• Availability to work weekends is required.  

• Safe driving record and able to operate AMC vehicles.  

• Current First Aid and CPR certification or ability to complete the courses.  

• Physical abilities needed: Ability to lift 50 pounds.  

• Ability to travel safely in the backcountry in all weather conditions.  
    

What AMC Can Offer You 

Salary range: $16.50/hr 

We are committed to equitable compensation practices, and we encourage qualified candidates to apply. The initial salary represents our starting point, and our compensation philosophy is designed to reward and recognize the contributions of our employees as they grow within the organization. External candidates typically begin their journey with us at the starting point of the salary range. The final compensation offer will be based on factors such as experience, education, skills and geographic differential relevant to the position, and will be discussed during the interview process. 

Benefits 

• Insurance: Available with positions that are 6 months or longer and when working greater than 30 hours per week   

• Retirement: Voluntary 403(b) Contribution 

• Paid Time Off: earn up to 10 days of paid earned time depending on length of service  

• Other Team Member Perks:   

• 30% discount on AMC Merchandise   

• Free Annual AMC Membership  

• 4 Free nights at AMC locations  

• Prodeals discounts on equipment & gear and more!  

To Apply: 

Please include a resume and cover letter. No phone calls or agencies please. 

AMC welcomes all qualified candidates to apply and we invite the full participation of all individuals currently underrepresented in the outdoor community. This includes, but is not limited to, individuals from racially and/or ethnically diverse communities, individuals with disabilities, individuals from LGBTQ+ communities, and individuals who experience intersectionality with one or more of these identities. 

The Appalachian Mountain Club has zero tolerance for child abuse or placing children in danger. The AMC requires all employees who work in a program or facility which serves children, disabled persons, or the elderly to have a criminal background record check performed on their name annually with employment contingent upon satisfactory results.