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PCC: NATURALIST CREW MEMBER

As a Polk County Conservation AmeriCorps Naturalist, you’ll join a statewide service network delivering environmental education and outdoor experiences to Iowa youth. Naturalists assist full-time staff with youth programming, behavior management, and fostering positive connections to nature. Using research-based curricula in STEM, outdoor recreation, environmental education, and outdoor living skills, members help create hands-on, engaging learning experiences that inspire community members and strengthen their relationship with the outdoors. Programs are delivered throughout Polk County Conservation parks with regular community interaction. Two Quarter-Time Naturalists will serve with Polk County Conservation as part of the Polk County Conservation AmeriCorps Program. Members build leadership skills, gain professional experience, earn a $6,270 living stipend (paid over the 450-hour term), and receive a $1,956.35 Segal Education Award upon successful completion to apply toward higher education or federal student loans. These are Quarter-Time positions, requiring a minimum of 450 hours over 13 weeks (approximately 38 hours per week). This is not a direct Polk County Conservation position. Members are not Polk County employees and are not eligible for employee benefits. Members serve with Polk County Conservation as a host site under AmeriCorps rules, benefits, and requirements. Site Location: Jester Park

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Member Duties : Facilitate age-appropriate environmental education and outdoor programs for youth groups and childcare services on topics like conservation, ecology, and recreation. Each member is paired with a full-time naturalist for mentorship. Programs last about an hour and occur in Polk County parks. Maintain program data (attendance, topic, duration) in a shared Google doc. Develop and lead a 45-minute nature-based program for a Polk County summer camp, incorporating hands-on elements aligned with camp themes (e.g., birds, wildlife, fishing). Camps are grouped by age (6–16) and capped at 12 participants. Members are notified of assignments two weeks after starting to allow for training and prep. Engage visitors at Jester Park Nature Center by interpreting displays, trails, and amenities. Receive training in visitor engagement, animal care, and ambassador animal data collection. Participate in professional development and other approved AmeriCorps activities.

Program Benefits : Training , $80/month cellphone stipend , Housing , Living Allowance , Education award upon successful completion of service .

Terms :
Permits working at another job during off hours , Permits attendance at school during off hours , Car recommended .

Service Areas :
Education , Environment , Community Outreach , Children/Youth .

Skills :
Team Work , General Skills , Youth Development , Leadership , Education , Environment .

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SUMMARY
Program Type:
AmeriCorps State / National

Program
PCC: NATURALIST CREW MEMBER

Program Start/End Date
05/16/2026 - 08/22/2026

Work Schedule	Full Time

Education level
Some college

Age Requirement
Minimum: 17 Maximum: None

Program Locations	IOWA

Accepting Applications
From 09/17/2025 To 04/28/2026

Contact	Marissa Merical
12130 NW 128th St
Granger IA 50109
5157768548
pccamericorps@polkcountyiowa.gov

Listing ID	124611


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