Listing Summary

Job Title:                            Urban Naturalist

Department:                       Public Works

Reports to:                         Assistant City Manager, Public Works

Salary Range:                     $55,723 - $91,354 Annually DOQ (Exempt)

 

Purpose of Work:

The City of Decatur owns and manages several important natural areas, including Hidden Cove Park, Dearborn Park and Glenn Creek Nature Preserve, as well as significant portions of Legacy Park, Decatur Cemetery, Glenlake Park, Oakhurst Dog Park and other areas.  The Urban Naturalist is expected to play a vital role in the preservation, conservation and improvement of Decatur’s natural areas, including greenspace, woodlands, stream corridors, parks and other environmentally sensitive properties, especially as it relates to environmental management, stewardship, education and outreach. The Urban Naturalist provides broad ecological oversight and management and promotes native biodiversity and sustainability. The Urban Naturalist develops, leads and supports educational programs and outreach opportunities. As a key representative for the City, the Urban Naturalist works collaboratively with City staff, civic organizations and residents to ensure that environmental initiatives in Decatur are fully integrated with and support the City’s strategic plan.

 

This position requires a wide range of knowledge, skills and abilities that include several disciplines. Candidates may not be proficient in all areas. If employed, self-initiated and employer-provided training will be available. A desire and willingness to learn is essential.

 

Specific Job Duties:

 

• Provide on-going environmental oversight and management for City’s public natural areas.
• Support the development and implementation of protocols and specifications for native biodiversity restoration, initiatives and enhancements.
• Work with and train City staff and community volunteers in environmental stewardship, invasive plant removal, woodland restoration and similar activities.
• Work outdoors using a variety of equipment and tools associated with forestry and land management.
• Serve as content specialist for public education efforts.
• Other responsibilities as assigned.      

 

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in ecology, biology, forestry, environmental management or related field with 5-7 years relevant experience or;
• Master’s degree in ecology, biology, forestry, environmental management or related field with 2-3 years relevant experience
• Experience in community engagement and general management.
• Knowledge of Southeastern United States; Flora and Fauna.     
• Possess a Commercial Applicator’s License or have the ability to obtain the license within a specified time.  

 

Physical Requirements

• Proficiency in use of office software (e.g., word processing, spreadsheets, email) and GIS.
• Have the ability to perform light manual labor and similar activities including the ability to lift and carry heavy objects (10-50 lbs.), climb, sit, bend, squat and twist on a daily basis.
• Weekend, holiday and evening availability may be required.

 

Other information

This job description includes the major duties and responsibilities of the job and is not to be construed as all-inclusive. The duties listed here are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or is a logical assignment to the position.

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

 

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The City of Decatur is committed to having a workforce that reflects diversity at all levels and is an equal opportunity employer. Therefore, qualified applicants are considered for employment, and employees are treated during employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status, political affiliation or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.