Temporary - Nature Based Activity Specialist (Austin Nature & Science Center/Austin Parks and Recreation)

About This Position

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• High School diploma/GED, and six (6) months of related experience.

• Appropriate certifications as specified for the assignment.

• May require certification in CPR, First Aid, Water Safety Instruction, or other areas as specified for the assigned class.

• Texas Class “C” Driver or Commercial Driver license if required for the assignment.

• Degree in education, early childhood education, environmental studies, ecology, or other related field.

• Experience with environmental education, animal handling, hiking, and other outdoor adventure activities.

• Experience in team building, redirecting challenging behaviors, and setting healthy boundaries with youth ages 4-16 years.

• Experience and skill in interpreting environmental education themes to large groups of participants.

• Ability to fluently communicate (reading, writing, speaking) in English and Spanish.

• Knowledge of the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS).

• Knowledge of age-appropriate hands-on activities and crafts.

• Knowledge of common safety practices and procedures.

• Ability to work with children, including youth with special needs.

• Ability to travel to more than one work location.

• Demonstrate interest in and knowledge of nature-based education.

• Familiarity with and knowledge of Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS).

• Safely facilitate and actively supervise PreK - 7th grade students and homeschoolers while engaging in a variety of educational activities.

• Ability to actively instruct educational programs indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.

• Modify and teach experiential program activities to accommodate various needs, abilities, and interests.

• Be punctual and consistently work assigned shifts.

• Attend all sessions of scheduled staff training and staff meetings.

• Be comfortable handling various mammals, reptiles, amphibians, insects, and birds while facilitating programs.

• Utilize effective classroom and behavior management skills in order to maintain a safe learning environment.

• Maintain the physical space by performing classroom housekeeping and outdoor class space management regularly.

• Communicate clearly and professionally with participants, teachers, co-workers, and supervisors.

• Work cooperatively with co-instructors and other staff.

• Complete reports and forms and assist with maintaining records in accordance with City of Austin (COA) and Austin Parks & Recreation (APR) policies and procedures.

• Carry out other duties as assigned.

$22.05 per hour

Austin Nature & Science Center - 301 Nature Center Dr.

• Variable schedule, average of 30 hours per week, generally Tuesday – Saturday.

• Availability needed September through April.

• Required to work up to three (3) special events and most school break camps.

• Work schedule and location is subject to change based on department needs and programs.

• May be required to work during city emergencies such as extreme weather events.

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• Make a Difference: Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation.

• Value and Innovation: Work in an environment where employees are valued, and innovation thrives.

• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.

• Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.

• Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.

• Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.

• Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.

• Modern Workspaces: Work in innovative and sustainable environments that foster collaboration and inspiration.

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EEO Statement for City of Austin:

The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk.

City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call (512) 974-3210 or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1.