Nature Interpreter (Clerk 2) (Hiring Pool)

Hiring Pool

This hiring pool will be used to fill potential seasonal, temporary and casual Nature Interpreter (Clerk 2) opportunities at the Shubenacadie Wildlife Park.  Please note our seasonal work period for 2023 is anticipated to be April 17 to October 27.

About Us

Nova Scotia is rich in natural resources – including biodiversity, forests, provincial parks and the land we manage. The Department of Natural Resources & Renewables is responsible for the development, management, conservation and protection of forest, parks and wildlife resources and the administration of the province's Crown land. Together we are working with Nova Scotians to build a better future through sustainable natural resource management as we all benefit from the natural health and wealth of the province.

The Shubenacadie Wildlife Park is one of Nova Scotia’s top tourist destinations and has attracted millions of visitors over the past 60 years. The 40 hectare park has enchanted Nova Scotians and visitors alike and provides a wide range of outdoor recreational and educational opportunities.

About Our Opportunity

We are looking for an enthusiastic and knowledgeable Nature Interpreter to join our team. You will have the opportunity to engage and educate our visitors by preparing presentations for environmental education programs.  Our programs are for everyone from students, youth, community groups and the general public and the topics are related to wildlife, habitat, and conservation. You will also help develop and deliver of a full range of interpretive programs and related materials.

Primary Accountabilities

In this role, you will need to communicate effectively with people of all ages about the Wildlife Park and Ducks Unlimited programs and mandate. You will be working outdoors in various weather conditions and must be comfortable to lead walks, hikes and wetland exploration programs. You may also assist with: 

• The summer youth camp program;
• Care of displays;
• Critter care and collection;
• Retail duties in the gift store;
• Collecting fees for admission, events, education groups, and tours; and,
• Maintenance requirements for trails and facilities (such as cleaning washrooms, washing windows, vacuuming, weeding, trail guide and other related duties).
• Occasionally assisting with visitor services activities.

This position reports to the Supervisor of Visitor Experience.

If you enjoy interacting with and educating people of all ages and backgrounds and are as passionate about our provincial wildlife as we are, this may be the perfect opportunity for you!

Qualifications and Experience

As the successful candidate you have three (3) years of related experience. Related experience may include providing education programs to groups, working in conservation, wildlife or nature preservation.  An equivalent combination of training and experience will be considered. Post-secondary education in environmental / science related fields would be considered an asset.

You are knowledgeable of wildlife, habitat and environmental issues and you must be able to conduct related research. You have demonstrated organizational, communication (written and verbal) and presentation skills and the ability to deliver engaging programs to a diverse audience in a clear and entertaining way.  You have strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work independently as well as part of a team.

Additionally, you must have good working knowledge of computers and standard office software such as word processing, spreadsheet and email. You will also have Emergency First Aid/CPR certification.  Extensive knowledge of wildlife with emphasis on wetland species and ecology, management techniques, conservation and facilities, along with local tourist attractions and services would be considered an asset.

We will assess the above qualifications using one or more of the following tools: written examination, standardized tests, oral presentations, interview(s), and reference checks.

Equivalency

Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

Benefits

Based on the employment status and Union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as Health, Dental, Life Insurance, Pension, General Illness (Short and Long Term), Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs. Click here to learn more about our various benefits offering and eligibility criteria. 

Working Conditions

• Extended or irregular hours, including holidays and weekends
• Working outdoors regularly, sometimes in adverse weather and after dark
• Odours
• Noise and crowds
• Increased risk of personal injury due to cash on-site
• Travel (mainly within the province)

What We Offer

• Career Development where you have access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career.
• Engaging workplace. Our Employees feel valued, respected, connected, and tuned in. We have forward-thinking policies and strategies.
• Countless Career Paths. 
• Department Specific Flexible working schedules.