The RDRN is looking to hire a Naturalist-In-Residence. This position will be for 32 hours per week, for 16 weeks, between May 1 and August 31st, 2023 $26.00/hr., with compensation for use of personal vehicle. The Naturalist-in-Residence will, under the direction of the RDRN designate(s), oversee and be responsible for the delivery of two major RDRN initiatives, Nature Central and Habitat Steward. Details about these programs can be found at www.naturecentral.org.
Duties will include:
NATURE CENTRAL
- As directed, complete the inventorying, documentation and mapping of protected rural landscapes in Central Alberta within 100 km of Red Deer
- In conjunction with the Education and Program Coordinator, lead nature tours as well as place-based experiential, family-oriented programs
- Promote nature appreciation and the thoughtful exploration, non-consumptive use and ecological understanding of these protected areas
- Develop, promote and lead Citizen Science programs and initiatives
- Cultivate beneficial partnerships with the stakeholders of protected areas in Central Alberta
HABITAT STEWARD
- Promote the program – to recognize landowners who conserve habitat on private property
- Maintain a database of landowners and habitat descriptions, deliver signs, arrange field trips, meet and interview landowners, write engaging stories about private conservancy,
Position Requirements:
- A keen naturalist with post-secondary training in a related field, or currently enrolled in a biology or environmental science discipline degree/diploma
- Ability to conduct basic plant inventories and bird point/transect counts
- An engaging interpreter and public speaker
- Basic understanding of GIS, map-reading, wilderness first-aid, eBird and iNaturalist
- Ability to work cooperatively with the RDRN volunteers and staff, and property stakeholders
- Fluent with social media platforms
- Ability to travel within the region and access to a reliable, insured vehicle
- A personal laptop or computer
- Valid First Aid Certification
Personal Characteristics:
- Passion for nature and strong agreement with/support of RDRN’s mission and objectives
- Strong written and oral communication skills
- Excellent interpersonal and team skills
- Physically fit and comfortable working and hiking safely in large protected areas (with a partner)
- Self-motivated and enthusiastic
- Able to work independently but also under the direction of the RDRN designate(s)
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends
- Open to new ideas and works to achieve best practices
The Red Deer River Naturalists have an office in the Kerry Wood Nature Centre in the Gaetz Lakes Sanctuary in Red Deer. The successful candidate can work between the RDRN office and a home office.
