In-person Summary Description The Florida National Parks Association (FNPA) is the official cooperating association and nonprofit partner to Everglades National Park, Dry Tortugas National Park, Biscayne National Park, and Big Cypress National Preserve. Our Institutes partner with our National Parks to enhance visitor experiences by providing educational and interpretive opportunities. FNPA is seeking multiple part-time Naturalists for its Institutes. Naturalists are part of a dedicated team committed to connecting the public to Everglades National Park and Biscayne National Park through exceptional educational and interpretive programming. Naturalists must be knowledgeable about these parks and experienced outdoor leaders capable of providing fun, educational, and safe experiences for visitors.
Primary Responsibilities Program Delivery:
Prepare and deliver engaging, organized educational and interpretive programs to diverse audiences to connect them to Everglades and Biscayne National Parks.
Visitor Engagement & Sales:
Work alongside National Park Service Rangers at visitor centers to welcome and orient guests, articulate FNPA and NPS missions, and promote Institute programs, memberships, and philanthropic opportunities.
Knowledge & Stewardship:
Maintain a thorough understanding of Everglades and Biscayne National Parks (natural, cultural, and geological histories, wildlife, and resource management) while adhering to and enforcing FNPA policies and NPS resource protection regulations.
Risk Management:
Perform field-based risk management duties during outdoor activities by anticipating and mitigating potential hazards or group issues.
Operations & Administration:
Assist with program coordination (answering calls/emails, managing bookings, drafting itineraries), developing teaching materials, and maintaining outdoor gear and equipment.
Collaboration & Travel:
Foster a positive, team-oriented environment with staff, partners, and volunteers, and travel across program locations in South Florida as required. Basic Qualifications Must be at least 21 years old. Must possess a valid Florida Driver's License with no moving violations within the past 5 years. Minimum of 2 years of outdoor guiding experience with demonstrated leadership skills. Strong commitment to education and the protection of South Florida's national parks. Knowledge of regional biology, ecology, geology, and cultural history. Exceptional customer service and communication skills. Current CPR and First Aid certifications (or willingness to obtain and maintain them upon hire). Physical ability to stand for extended periods, walk, hike, bike, and paddle canoes/kayaks up to 10 miles in variable outdoor climate conditions. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and comfortably navigate open water on boats. Flexible schedule availability, including required weekends and holidays. Ability to pass a criminal background check and driving record check. Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Biology, Environmental Science, or a related field (or 2+ years of equivalent professional field experience). Prior experience working in a non-profit organization. Experience delivering educational programming to both youth and adult groups. Work Locations This position requires reporting to multiple field sites and facilities across South Florida, including: FNPA Main Office (Everglades National Park): 10 Parachute Key Lot #51, Homestead, FL 33034 Shark Valley Entrance (Everglades National Park): 36000 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33194 Biscayne National Park Institute (Coconut Grove): 3400 Pan American Dr, Miami, FL 33133
Schedule & Hours Hours:
Part-time (up to 40 hours per week depending on program bookings and weather conditions).
Availability:
Weekend and holiday availability is required. Benefits Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Employee store discount