Part Time Parks Naturalist - Lead TreeSchool Teacher

Overview & Benefits

Oakland County is more than just a workplace. It is a place where you can make a real difference. As one of Michigan’s leading public service organizations, we are committed to strengthening communities, delivering essential services, and improving the quality of life for nearly 1.3 million residents.

When you join our team, you become part of a mission-driven workforce guided by integrity, innovation, and a passion for public service. We offer competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to do meaningful work that matters. Apply today and help shape the future of Oakland County, where we are All Ways Moving Forward.

For more information about Oakland County benefits and employee perks, please visit:

https://www.oakgov.com/government/human-resources/benefits/new-hire

General Summary

This position is limited to 1,000 hours/year.
Compensation: $29.32 - $39.29 per hour
Location: On-site at Bowers School Farm in Bloomfield Hills, MI

Serves as onsite program leader for TreeSchool (nature-based preschool), supervises part-time staff and volunteers, and ensures that all programming, facilities, and visitor experiences meet the quality and safety standards of Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission, as well as licensing guidelines from the State of Michigan. Provides young children with high-quality, developmentally appropriate, and positive experiential learning experiences in an outdoor and/or farm-based setting. Plans, develops, and delivers a comprehensive schedule of nature-based educational activities using the emergent curriculum model, Forest School principles and Michigan’s’ Early Childhood Standards. Responsible for the oversight and direction of the Assistant TreeSchool Teachers.

Minimum Qualifications

EXPERIENCE, TRAINING, KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS & ABILITIES

REQUIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Possess a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university with a major in Parks Interpretation, Outdoor Education, Environmental Education, Biological Sciences, Natural Resources, Agriculture, Food Systems, Recreation, Early Childhood Education, or a related field AND
• Have had at least two (2) years full-time professional work experience developing, coordinating, and delivering environmental education, farm-based education, interpretation, outdoor recreation, nature-based programming, or early childhood programming.;

OR

• Possess an Associate’s Degree or equivalent education from an accredited college or university with a major in Parks Interpretation, Outdoor Education, Environmental Education, Biological Sciences, Natural Resources, Agriculture, Food Systems, Recreation, Early Childhood Education, or a related field.AND
• Have had at least four (4) years full-time professional work experience developing, coordinating, and delivering environmental education, farm-based education, interpretation, outdoor recreation, nature-based programming, or early childhood programming.

AND

• Possess a valid motor vehicle operator’s or chauffeur’s license.

AND

• Pass the complete examination, including the employment medical, established for this classification.

AND

• Successfully complete the six month probationary period.

ADDITIONAL DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices used in developing and carrying out a diversified Interpretive Program.
• Considerable knowledge and appreciation of ideals and objectives of a planned nature program.
• Considerable ability to plan a budget, organize, coordinate and direct the activities and personnel involved in a well-rounded nature program.
• Considerable ability to direct the preparation of exhibits for the environmental programs and facilities, establish and label nature trails, and give lectures.
• Considerable ability to instruct groups in the fundamentals of natural sciences as applied to an Interpretive Program.
• Considerable ability to speak effectively before a variety of groups interested in the study of park environment.
• Ability to operate office equipment such as an adding machine and a typewriter, and considerable ability to operate motor vehicles such as a pick‑up truck and a van.
• Familiar with current word processing, spreadsheet, database, e-mail and Internet software.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must maintain a valid United States motor vehicle operator's or chauffeur’s license.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

• Functions as a working supervisor, over a group of students, volunteers, part‑time and full‑time employees. Instructs, assigns, schedules, checks and appraises performance.
• Participates in decisions to hire, discipline, discharge, and award pay increases and/or promotions.
• Regularly performs same duties as employees supervised.

When Assigned to TreeSchool

• Guides preschool groups through inquiry-based learning experiences related to topics/fields including agriculture, natural resources, plant and animal science, and environmental education.
• Facilitates and collaborates with the early childhood team to plan, evaluate, and assess programs and learning.
• Communicates with children, parents/guardians, colleagues, volunteers, and the public consistently, appropriately, and effectively.
• Communicates regularly with program parents/guardians regularly, such as through newsletters, blogs, meetings, email, etc., to support child learning and development
• Supports promotion of educational programs, camps, and other activities.
• Leads the overall planning and maintenance of program equipment, supplies, materials, and classroom spaces.
• Routinely documents, reflects on and extends learning through meetings and other professional development opportunities.
• Completes required professional development and maintains current training records.
• Recognizes and addresses hazards in the outdoor setting by performing risk assessments and developing and implementing procedures to maintain a safe and healthy learning environment.
• Contributes to the development, implementation, and review of program policies, procedures, and activities in collaboration with the Recreation Program Supervisor.
• Supports and participates in other functions as appropriate or as needed.

ADDITIONAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assists in planning outdoor education workshops for teachers in order to promote professional development in outdoor education and instructs workshop sessions.

ESSENTIAL MENTAL & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to communicate to accurately convey information.
• Ability to coordinate communications for special events, tours, site reviews and other activities.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work normally carried out within a typical office environment as well as in an outdoor environment where there is exposure to weather conditions.

IMPORTANT NOTE:  The primary purpose of this job description is to set a fair and equitable salary range for this job classification.  Generally, only those key duties necessary for proper job evaluation and/or labor market analysis have been included. Other duties and responsibilities will be assigned by the supervisor.

Additional Minimum Qualifications

Union*

*If applicable

EEO Statement

We are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances.

Inclusion Statement

Oakland County is committed to welcoming applicants from all backgrounds, including those with prior convictions, as we believe in providing equal opportunities for all. We value the unique perspectives and experiences each individual brings to our team and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace. If you have the skills and qualifications for the position, we encourage you to apply. All candidates are evaluated based on their ability to meet the job requirements, legal obligations and thrive in our organization. All ways, MOVING FORWARD.