Naturalist in Pembroke, Virginia at Mountain Lake LLC

Do you love working in the great outdoors? Do you love sharing your knowledge and passion with others? Looking for work that doesn’t feel like a job? Mountain Lake Lodge has an opportunity for you!

Mountain Lake Lodge is a historic, rustic, iconic resort located in Southwest Virginia surrounded by beautiful scenic views and 22-miles of hiking trails. The Mountain Lake Conservancy's mission is to further Mary Moody's desire to forge bonds between people and nature in Mountain Lake's unique environment. The conservancy provides a holistic stage through educational and recreational activities that make guest experience a memorable one. Our natural settings, accommodations, activities, and programs are developed and integrated to support this mission.

Mountain Lake Lodge is seeking a Naturalist to continue Mary Moody’s mission to connect people with nature and work with the resort’s Recreation team. The Naturalist will create programs and activities that teach guests about the nature and history surrounding the property. This person will share their love and passion for the outdoors with the guests of Mountain Lake Lodge. They will give guided tours on one of our 13 hiking trails and be knowledgeable about Mountain Lake’s natural, geologic, and cultural history. Are you an experienced outdoor leader who wants to provide fun, educational, and safe programs?

This team member is responsible for positively representing Mountain Lake Lodge, through program delivery, program support, and coordination.

Ideal Candidate:

· Loves the working in the outdoors, rain or shine and has in-depth knowledge of nature, flora, and fauna.

· Good skills working with the public and interacting with people of all ages, interests, viewpoints, and backgrounds. Must love working with children.

· Comfortable teaching and public speaking.

· Creative and can work independently.

· Ability to withstand exposure to varying weather conditions/temperatures for extended periods and work effectively during daylight and evening hours.

· Physical fitness to trail walk 1-4 miles per day.

· Can work weekends, evenings, and holidays.

Job Responsibilities:

· Develop, manage, and schedule guest programs and activities.

· Market, promote, coordinate, and assist with special events and educational/recreational/ historical programming.

· Lead daytime, evening, and/or weekend educational, recreational, and/or historical programs.

· Research, prepare and present information and hands-on activities to general audiences and special interest groups surrounding natural sciences, history and/or recreational opportunities while utilizing a variety of programming materials.

Qualifications:

· Previous formal or informal teaching experience, including lesson planning.

· A BS/BA/AA or higher in the field of life science, biological science, physical science, parks & recreation, or equivalent combination of education & experience (helpful, not required).

· A recent graduate would be considered, will also consider and active student who is currently enrolled in a natural science program, at an accredited university.