Naturalist

This position description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being
performed by people in this category. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all
responsibilities, duties and skills required of people in these positions.

Work Team:

Program

Reports To:

Program Lead

Position Classification:

Volunteer

Length of Service:

3-4 Months

POSTION SUMMARY

HIRING NOW | This position is open May – September 2025. The Naturalist is both a student and teacher of nature. The Naturalist is responsible for leading educational sessions for all ages on a variety of topics relating to the Railroad Creek Valley ecosystem and Holden’s current and historical relationship to the environment. The Naturalist also supports Holden’s Hike Haus in providing programs relating to outdoor skills and responsible recreation.

MAJOR FUNCTIONS

(principal duties and responsibilities; such as categories supported, staff size, volume managed, etc)

Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

Plans and leads interactive and educational programs on topics relating to the Railroad Creek Valley ecosystem.
Plans and leads educational programs on topics relating to Holden’s relationship with the natural environment.
Provides Holden hospitality by interfacing with guests in a positive, friendly manner.
Supports the Hike Haus in offering programs relating to outdoor safety, equipment use, and skills.
Develops resources for guests and staff to deepen their understanding of and relationship to Holden’s natural surroundings.
Examines and makes recommendations to management in order to improve environmental stewardship and practices.
Collaborates with Youth Program, Art Studio Technicians, Ceramic Studio Technician, and Worship team to develop nature-related programs across the Village.
Supervises Hike Haus Head; supports Hike Haus operations as necessary.
Is responsive to communications from supervisor and attends weekly 1:1 with Program Lead.
Attends weekly Program team meetings.
Updates Naturalist HoldenStack and Z:Drive files.
Assists in other aspects of the Program team’s work and other departments at the discretion of the Program Lead.
Other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS REQUIREMENTS

(position specifications; such as knowledge/education, skills, problem solving/decision making, risk/bottom line results, management responsibility – people and functions)

Specific knowledge and skills include but are not limited to the following:

Background or education in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology or related field highly preferred
Experience in outdoor ventures such as hiking, climbing, camping, foraging, fishing, and birding preferred.
First Aid/CPR certification or Wilderness First Aid certification preferred.
Experience managing staff/volunteers or working on teams preferred.
Demonstrated ability and enthusiasm for learning new material related to local flora, fauna, and ecosystems.
Demonstrated ability to create and implement engaging lesson plans.
Demonstrated public speaking abilities.
Demonstrated interpersonal skills; enthusiasm for and ability to interact with all ages.
Demonstrated ability to work independently, take initiative, and be proactive.
Strong awareness of safety and liability; ability to respond to emergencies.
Sound judgement, creativity, problem solving, flexibility, and decision-making abilities.
Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings.
Ability to see the “big picture” and be proactive.
Able to lift and move equipment and supplies; able to stand for long periods of time.

COMMUNITY EXPECTATIONS

(particular knowledge/skills related to client and/or agency needs)

Enthusiasm for and ability to work in a remote wilderness setting
Willingness to participate in a mutual review after 6 months
Commitment to serve Holden’s mission of welcoming all into the wilderness to form and renew their relationships with God, the earth, and each other
Pledges to work in ways that support and fulfill Holden Village’s Mission, Vision, and Values and commits to the terms of the Community of Practice Agreement
Upholds and works to further Holden Village values of diversity, equality, respect, sustainability, and spirituality as articulated in the Strategic Plan
Commitment to the terms of the Staff Covenant, including: attending worship, weekly staff meetings, and participation in Village contributions of the dish team, garbology, and stoking
Serve the community as a leader and role model by serving in other Village roles and projects. These include, but are not limited to, first aid team, fire brigade, seasonal program events and activities, help with worship, and attendance at volunteer trainings
All staff members are expected to engage & help all Villagers to integrate into community life
Abides by Holden Village’s Community Health Protocols and Practices

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

As a Summer Seasonal Volunteer, you are eligible for the following benefits:

$350/month stipend
Food (three meals/day)
Housing & utilities
Free parking at Fields Point
Boat tickets commensurate with length of commitment
Out days commensurate with length of commitment
Friends & family days commensurate with length of commitment
Access to amazing hiking opportunities, community events, teaching sessions, art studios and other educational opportunities!