Outdoor Education Naturalist

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Pathfinder Ranch, Inc

Posted 3 months ago

Full Time

, California

In Person

Smart Summary

Responsibilities

The Naturalist facilitates academic and recreational programs for students using established curriculum and state standards. Responsibilities include managing client groups, maintaining program records, and ensuring the safety of camp facilities and guests.

Qualifications

You have experience with First Aid and CPR/AED certifications and can effectively communicate ecological and conservation concepts to 5th and 6th graders. You are passionate about teaching, can manage behavior, and maintain program records.

Must Have Skills for ATS

First Aid

CPR/AED

Curriculum development

Animal care

Garden care

Lifeguard certification

Watercraft Guard certification

English speaking

Spanish speaking

Job Description

Under the supervision of the Program Manager, the Naturalist uses established curriculum and the California State Content Standards for instructing a variety of academic subjects and recreation activities. The major responsibilities of this position include the following but are not limited to:  Responsibilities
  • Facilitating program including classes, evening programs and meals for client groups and special events, including some weekends and holidays
  • Maintain accurate program records and logs
  • Assisting in curriculum development and implementation
  • Provide positive public relations on behalf of Pathfinder Ranch and serve as a liaison with client groups
  • Assist group chaperones with cabin supervision and evening rituals
  • Communicating behavior issues with school faculty and occasionally providing behavior management to clients
  • Provide basic First Aid and CPR to clients Inventory and recommend equipment acquisitions as needed
  • Participate enthusiastically in all camp activities, planning, and leadership roles, including staff meetings
  • Assisting in overall program operations, including animal and garden care
  • Keeping up-to-date and engaged with new teaching pedagogies and practices
  • Ensure the security and safety of camp facilities, grounds, and equipment
  • Follow and uphold all policies and procedures of Pathfinder Ranch
  • Comply with Health and Fire Department regulations, organizational policies, and accreditation standards
  • Other duties as assigned
Job Requirements
  • 18 years of age or older
  • Current Adult and Child First Aid & CPR/AED certifications from a nationally recognized provider (at least 50% of the course must be in-person with a practical skills session)
  • Ability to communicate ecological, recreational, and conservation concepts to 5th and 6th grade students from diverse backgrounds
  • Passion for teaching and building strong mentoring relationships with students
  • Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and provide high quality customer service to clients
  • Complete tasks both independently and collaboratively in a timely and accurate manner
  • Communicate and coordinate with participant parents/guardians/group liaisons 
Preferred Qualifications
  • Past experience with ropes courses, horses, farm animals, reptiles and/or gardens 
  • 1+ years experience working in a camp setting
  • Current Lifeguard or Watercraft Guard certification from a nationally recognized provider
  • English and Spanish speaking
  • Bachelor's Degree in a related field and/or related work experience
Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to lift and carry 30 lbs. with reasonable accommodations
  • Ability to work a varied shift schedule in excess of 10 hours per day
  • Ability to traverse several miles per day on steep and uneven terrain in a variety of weather conditions.        
Dates of Work
September 10 - December 11, 2026  (unpaid week for Thanksgiving)

Compensation
$676.00 - $796.00 per weekHousing Paid Time OffHealth insurance options for those working multiple season

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Pathfinder Ranch, Inc

Pathfinder Ranch is an independent non-profit Retreat & Conference Center as well as Summer Camp and Science and Outdoor Education School. Since 1964, we have remained committed to providing youth from diverse backgrounds with affordable camping programs. We believe every kid should have the opportunity to be a camper.
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