Seasonal Park Naturalist

Overview

Recognized as one of the best places to work in Southeast Minnesota for three consecutive years, Olmsted County is dedicated to fostering a vibrant community where employees thrive. Our staff is central to delivering public service excellence and community well‑being.

Regular and reliable attendance is a necessary component of the position. Individuals required to use county vehicles and equipment must have a valid driver’s license and be free of any major traffic violations for the last three (3) years.

Experience or training in wildlife biology, ecology, or related fields of study.

Under general supervision of the Oxbow Park Manager and in cooperation with a Park Naturalist, performs specialized work in the operation of the Oxbow Park Zoo. Supports a diverse, respectful, and inclusive workplace.

• Assist with zoo and park maintenance, including animal diet prep, daily feeding, and animal enrichment. Assist with zoo exhibit general maintenance and landscape upkeep including mowing and weed whacking.
• Aids in presenting zoo animal and nature education programs to school age groups and the general public. Conducts tours of the zoo or park environmental areas.
• Participate in Community Science Projects conducted at the park.
• Maintains accurate records of zoo animals’ inventory covering acquisition, disposal, and treatments of animals.
• Participates in resource management of park lands that includes addressing invasive species control, prairie restoration, and forest management.
• Participate in park maintenance projects like trail work, painting, mowing, and minor construction.
• Support at all parks in the Olmsted County park system as assigned.

• Knowledge of wildlife, biology, and ecology.
• Knowledge of wildlife, park environment habitat, and interpretive materials.
• Skill working with animals.
• Skill in communication.
• Ability to cooperate with co-workers and deal tactfully and effectively with the public.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, verbally and in writing.
• Ability to keep accurate records of livestock inventory and care.

Reasonable accommodations may be available for both essential and non‑essential job duties.

Physical demands include: 24% or less, 25–49%, 50–74%, 75% or more. Work environments: office, outdoors, shop, and in vehicle/operating equipment.

Olmsted County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

• This position is based in Rochester, MN and is not remote eligible at this time.
• International relocation or international remote working arrangements (outside of the US) will not be considered.
• Applicants for this position must be currently authorized to work in the United States.
• Olmsted County does not sponsor applicants for this position.