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Position: Substitute Naturalist
Date: Jan 14, 2009
Classification: Seasonal

Description

Position: Naturalist
Date: Oct 29, 2008
Classification: Seasonal
Description
Substitute Naturalist
YMCA East Bay Outdoor School at Camp Arroyo
Location: Livermore, CA
 
JOB DESCRIPTION:
 
YMCA East Bay Outdoor School at Camp Arroyo, in Livermore, California, is hiring a substitute naturalist to work 2-3 weeks per month, February through May, scheduled in advance. Additional substitute and weekend work will be available. Opened in 2001, the camp’s earth-friendly architecture is state-of-the art (rated one of AIA’s Top Ten Green Projects of 2002), featuring a straw bale dining hall and passive-solar designed cabins.
 
Naturalists lead three-, four- and five-day education programs to fourth through sixth graders from around the Bay Area, September through June. Our experiential curriculum focuses on the theme of sustainability in the following lesson areas:
 
·        Organic gardening
·        Green architecture and renewable energy
·        Native Ohlone culture
·        Local ecology hike
·        Three-mile hike with an emphasis on personal accomplishment, watersheds, and geology
·        Team building initiatives and the climbing wall
·        In-depth elective classes designed by each naturalist
·        Challenge course (high and low ropes elements) facilitation for weekend groups
 
 
PRIMARY JOB DUTIES:
 
As a naturalist, you will be responsible for the following each week:
  • Teaching the above curriculum to the same group of 10-15 students for the week
  • Developing experiential, inquiry-based lesson plans
  • Facilitating community-building initiatives with groups
  • Orienting participants to program areas, including dining hall and cabins
  • Leading two to three meals in dining hall
  • Leading one to two structured activities during student recreation time
  • Working two evening programs (skit nights, night hike, or dance)
  • Assisting with the prep, maintenance, and clean-up of program supplies and areas
  • Participating in staff development
·       
Substitute Naturalists will work 2-3 weeks per month, February through May, scheduled in advance. Additional substitute and weekend work will be available.
 
 
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
 
  • Prefer at least 2 years experience in environmental education programs, especially residential programs
  • At least a four-year degree or equivalent experience
  • Knowledge of the above curriculum areas or the passion and follow-through to learn more
  • Experience working with a diversity of children from all socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds
  • Ability to work flexible work hours
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Positive management skills with children
  • Ability to walk up to 5 miles per day
  • Musical and acting abilities are a plus! (It is a camp setting so be prepared to perform in front of large groups of kids!)
  • Current First Aid and CPR certification, with AED training
  • Lifeguard certification, WFR/EMT certifications, and language skills are desirable
·        Flexibility, a positive attitude and a sense of humor are absolutely required!
 
 
COMPENSATION:
 
  • $120 per day, DOE
  • Food during programming
  • Stipend for development opportunities
  • Pro-deal accounts with various outdoor equipment vendors
  • Weekend work for additional pay (site host, activity guide, ropes course facilitation)
 
 
 
HOW TO APPLY:
 
Please send a resume with references and a cover letter by February 2, 2009, for priority consideration.
 
By e-mail:
 
Or by mail:
Angie Swank
YMCA Camp Arroyo
5535 Arroyo Rd.
Livermore, CA 94550
 
Or by fax:
(925) 455-7977
 
Recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce is a high priority at YMCA of the East Bay. Applicants from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.
 
 

Contact Information

Angie Swank
925-371-8401

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