Seasonal Park Naturalist

Seasonal Park Naturalist – Clay County Parks

Position Type: Seasonal (May 2026 – August 2026)

Hourly Rate: $15.00/hour

Internships Accepted

Position Summary

Clay County Parks is seeking enthusiastic and motivated individuals to serve as Seasonal Park Naturalists. This position plays a key role in delivering outdoor, nature-based education to the public. Successful candidates will conduct interpretive programs, lead guided hikes, assist with habitat restoration, and support park operations throughout the summer season.

Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct a variety of outdoor interpretive and educational programs, including guided hikes, walks, and hands-on nature experiences.
• Prepare and present lectures and talks on natural and cultural features of Clay County Parks, such as forests, lakes, wildlife, and plant communities.
• Lead field trips for diverse age groups and community organizations.
• Provide daily care for captive educational animals (amphibians, reptiles, and others).
• Assist with wildlife habitat restoration, including invasive and exotic plant control.
• Participate in research and data collection related to natural resources.

Essential Duties

• Deliver conservation and nature education programs for audiences of all ages in various settings, including parks, schools, libraries, churches, and campgrounds.
• Research, plan, and develop program topics; prepare and gather required materials.
• Handle live animals and native plants as part of educational demonstrations.
• Provide public relations support by interacting with park patrons in person, by phone, and at county office locations.
• Distribute brochures, maps, and educational materials as needed.
• Assist with park maintenance tasks, including mowing, trimming, trash removal, spraying vegetation, minor construction, and use of hand and power tools.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• You must possess a valid driver’s license.
• Preference will be given to currently enrolled, degree-seeking students majoring in:
  
  
  • Environmental Interpretation
  • Parks & Recreation
  • Wildlife Management
  • Forestry
  • Biology
  • Environmental Sciences
  • Education
  • Or a closely related field
• Ability to work outdoors in varied and sometimes extreme weather conditions, including heat, cold, exposure to insects, dirt, dust, poison ivy, and uneven terrain.
• Comfortable working with amphibians, reptiles, and other program animals.

Work Environment

The Seasonal Park Naturalist works primarily outdoors in park and natural settings. The position involves physical activity such as walking, lifting, and working in rugged terrain and variable weather.