Nature Center Manager

The Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) is seeking an effective and engaging Nature Center Manager to manage all aspects of Long Branch Nature Center. This position will provide direct oversight of full-time and part-time staff, volunteers, all programs and services, exhibits, and animal collections. The manager will also perform administrative duties managing multiple budgets, collections, synthesizing and evaluating data, setting team schedules, timecards and evaluations. This person will also oversee indoor facilities, native plant gardens, and surrounding natural areas and trails. This position coordinates with the other county nature center managers to align strategic plans, goals, processes, and performance measures for the unit.

DPR promotes wellness and vitality through dynamic programs and attractive public spaces.  Our facilities range from parks, sports fields, nature and community centers to playgrounds, and a skate park.  We are stewards to the County's natural resources and provide affordable recreational programs and services for people of all ages, abilities, and interests.  

Specific duties include:
 

• Supervises, hires, trains, coaches, and evaluates staff and interns;

• Establishes, implements and evaluates operating and program procedures; 

• Collaborates with other county nature centers and DPR sections to develop and execute programs, events, services, and experiences;

• Determines and develops programs and services in response to community needs and interests and agency priorities; 

• Creates and maintains relationships with advocates and community partners with diverse backgrounds located within equity focus areas;

• Evaluates, plans, designs, and implements facility and grounds improvements in collaboration with park area staff and facilities management units;

• Manages operating and fee-based budgets including purchase requisitions, purchase cards, and petty cash; 

• Manages the care of animal collections, permits and park and center maintenance; and

• Performs other related duties as assigned. 

The ideal candidate will possess effective leadership, communication, and organization skills, demonstrated ability to problem solve and logically process relevant information, and develop successful outcomes based on the needs of the department. 

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Bachelor's degree in natural sciences, biology, environmental sciences, wildlife management, or related field; and

• Considerable experience in park administration, natural resource management, environmental education, wildlife management, museum or zoo management, or closely related fields.

Substitution: Additional education may be substituted for experience. Additional experience may be substituted for education. 
 

Desirable: Preference may be given to candidates with experience in one or more of the following:

• Experience managing a nature center, environmental education center, or park visitor center;

• Experience doing community outreach to promote environmental awareness, appreciation, and stewardship;

• Experience in design, presentation, and evaluation of nature programs for diverse audiences;

• Experience in managing budget and financial processes; 

• CPR, First Aid and AED certifications; and

• Bilingual - ability to communicate in a different language (including English). 

Work Hours: Monday through Friday, ranging between 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.  

• Weekend and evening hours will be required on a regular basis; and

• Employee must be available for callback in emergency situations. 

The official title for this position is Natural Resources Specialist.