Seeking Applications for Naturalist/Educator
Blue Ridge Discovery Center is seeking applications for a Naturalist/Educator (N/E) to help connect our regional youth and adults to one of the greatest natural treasures in the east. This is an excellent opportunity to make a lasting impact on the next generation of stewards.
Position Announcement
Job Title: Naturalist/Educator
Hours: Full-time - 40hrs/week
Location: Blue Ridge Discovery Center, Konnarock, Virginia
Salary: Based on experience
Join Blue Ridge Discovery Center as the Naturalist/Educator and help connect our regional youth and adults to one of the greatest natural treasures in the East. This is an excellent opportunity to make a lasting impact on the next generation of stewards. Play a major role in program development, coordination, and delivery while contributing to our community and BRDC’s educational foundation.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
The Naturalist/Educator is our point of connection with the public and is primarily responsible for implementing BRDC programming. The role of the N/E is to help participants develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the wonders of the Blue Ridge. The N/E does this through the discovery method of guiding: an inquiry-based education technique. The N/E works with all ages of participants. These include grade school kids, summer camp attendees, researchers and adult participants. The N/E is expected to work in a wide variety of settings, including wilderness areas, public classrooms, meeting halls and summer camp facilities.
OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE:
Energetic, outgoing, enthusiastic, positive, inquisitive, goal oriented, hard working personality
Can inspire and empower others to engage in natural history
A strong base of natural history knowledge, preferably focused on the Southern Appalachians
Passion for and eagerness to expand and share their own personal knowledge
Bachelor's degree in environmental education, outdoor recreation, biology, or similar
Experience in environmental education working closely with youth and/or general public
Excellent verbal and written skills
Able to meet the physical demands of outdoor activities related to BRDC programming
Willingness to work in inclement weather conditions and wilderness settings
Can provide their own transportation
Strong organizational skills
BENEFITS:
Competitive Pay
Paid Federal Holidays
Assistance with certifications as required
Travel reimbursement
ABOUT BLUE RIDGE DISCOVERY CENTER
Blue Ridge Discovery Center (BRDC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to exploring, discovering, and sharing the natural history of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Founded in 2008, BRDC has built a reputation for implementing innovative hands-on, experiential learning programs and initiatives. Working with all age groups from children to adults, including curious kids, professional researchers, and amateur naturalists, BRDC draws on a deep web of knowledge about local natural history to illustrate relationships within the rich flora, fauna, and geology that make up the unique Blue Ridge ecosystems. Emphasizing curiosity while establishing a life-long appreciation for the natural wonders of the Blue Ridge region are goals that shape BRDC’s work and its vision.
BRDC’s MISSION is to inspire curiosity, discovery, and stewardship through the wonders of the Blue Ridge.
We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, age, pregnancy, disability, work-related injury, covered veteran status, political ideology, marital status, or any other factor that the law protects from employment discrimination.
Seeking Applications for Chief Naturalist/Educator
Blue Ridge Discovery Center is seeking applications for a Chief Naturalist/Educator (N/E) to help connect our regional youth and adults to one of the greatest natural treasures in the east. This is an excellent opportunity to hone your leadership and management skills and make a lasting impact on the next generation of stewards.
Position Announcement
Job Title: Chief Naturalist/Educator
Hours: Full-time - 40hrs/week
Reports To: Program Director
Location: Blue Ridge Discovery Center, Konnarock, Virginia
Salary: Based on experience
Join Blue Ridge Discovery Center as the Chief Naturalist/Educator and help connect our regional youth and adults to one of the greatest natural treasures in the East. This is an excellent opportunity to hone your leadership and management skills and make a lasting impact on the next generation of stewards. Play a major role in program development, coordination, and delivery while contributing to our community and BRDC’s educational foundation.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
This full-time position at BRDC is responsible for serving the organization with a personal commitment to meet our mission to: inspire curiosity, discovery, and stewardship through the wonders of the Blue Ridge. The Chief N/E position requires dedication to experiential learning, natural history/science education, and lifelong learning. This role coordinates and executes natural history/science programming on campus and in the field during our school programs, community programs, and summer camps. The Chief N/E works with all programmatic staff to ensure top notch program and curriculum development, field and classroom instruction, and program coordination and administration for all ages of participants including grade school kids, summer camp attendees, researchers, and adults. You will be expected to work in a wide variety of settings, including in the field, classrooms, public events, and BRDC facilities with some travel in Carroll, Grayson, Smyth, and Washington Counties and the City of Galax, VA.
OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE:
Energetic, outgoing, enthusiastic, positive, inquisitive, goal oriented, hard working personality
Can inspire and empower others to engage in natural history
A strong base of natural history knowledge, preferably focused on the Southern Appalachians
Passion for and eagerness to expand and share their own personal knowledge
Bachelor's degree in environmental education, outdoor recreation, biology, or similar
3-5 years experience in environmental education working closely with youth and/or general public
Excellent verbal and written skills
Able to meet the physical demands of outdoor activities related to BRDC programming
Willingness to work in inclement weather conditions and wilderness settings
Can provide their own transportation
Strong organizational skills
Creative in curriculum design and development
BENEFITS:
Competitive Salary
Paid Federal Holidays
Assistance with certifications as required
Travel reimbursement
ABOUT BLUE RIDGE DISCOVERY CENTER
Blue Ridge Discovery Center (BRDC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to exploring, discovering, and sharing the natural history of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Founded in 2008, BRDC has built a reputation for implementing innovative hands-on, experiential learning programs and initiatives. Working with all age groups from children to adults, including curious kids, professional researchers, and amateur naturalists, BRDC draws on a deep web of knowledge about local natural history to illustrate relationships within the rich flora, fauna, and geology that make up the unique Blue Ridge ecosystems. Emphasizing curiosity while establishing a life-long appreciation for the natural wonders of the Blue Ridge region are goals that shape BRDC’s work and its vision.
BRDC’s MISSION is to inspire curiosity, discovery, and stewardship through the wonders of the Blue Ridge.
We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, age, pregnancy, disability, work-related injury, covered veteran status, political ideology, marital status, or any other factor that the law protects from employment discrimination.
Seeking Applications for Naturalist/Educator
Blue Ridge Discovery Center is seeking applications for a Naturalist/Educator (N/E) and help connect our regional youth and adults to one of the greatest natural treasures in the east. This is an excellent opportunity to make an impact in our community while building naturalist skills.
Update: the application period for this position has ended. Stay tuned for future opportunities!
Position Announcement
Job Title: Naturalist/Educator
Hours: Full-time - 40hrs/week
Reports To: Program Director
Location: Blue Ridge Discovery Center, Konnarock, Virginia
Salary: Based on experience
Join Blue Ridge Discovery Center as a Naturalist/Educator (N/E) and help connect our regional youth and adults to one of the greatest natural treasures in the East. This is an excellent opportunity to make an impact in our community while continuing to grow and develop your naturalist skills. Working as a Naturalist/Educator will involve some of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of your life.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
This full-time position at BRDC is responsible for serving the organization with a personal commitment to inspire curiosity, discovery, and stewardship through the wonders of the Blue Ridge. The N/E position requires dedication to experiential learning, natural history/science education, and lifelong learning. This role coordinates and executes natural history/science programming both in the classroom and in the field during our school programs, community programs, and summer camps. The N/E works with all ages of participants including grade school kids, summer camp attendees, researchers, and adults. You will be expected to work in a wide variety of settings, including in the field, classrooms, public events, and BRDC facilities with travel in Carroll, Grayson, Smyth, and Washington Counties and the City of Galax, VA. The N/E works closely with and directly reports to the Program Director.
OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE:
Energetic, outgoing, enthusiastic, positive, inquisitive, goal oriented, hard working personality
Can inspire and empower others to engage in natural history
A strong base of natural history knowledge, preferably focused on the Southern Appalachians
Passion for and eagerness to expand and share their own personal knowledge
Bachelor's degree in environmental education, outdoor recreation, biology, or similar
Experience in environmental education working closely with youth and/or general public
Excellent verbal and written skills
Able to meet the physical demands of outdoor activities related to BRDC programming
Willingness to work in inclement weather conditions and wilderness settings
Can provide their own transportation
BENEFITS:
Competitive Salary
Paid Federal Holidays
Assistance with certifications as required
Travel reimbursement
ABOUT BLUE RIDGE DISCOVERY CENTER
Blue Ridge Discovery Center (BRDC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to exploring, discovering, and sharing the natural history of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Founded in 2008, BRDC has built a reputation for implementing innovative hands-on experiential learning programs and initiatives. Working with all age groups from children to adults, including curious kids, professional researchers, and amateur naturalists, BRDC draws on a deep web of knowledge about local natural history to illustrate relationships within the rich flora, fauna, and geology that make up the unique Blue Ridge ecosystems. Emphasizing curiosity while establishing a life-long appreciation for the natural wonders of the Blue Ridge region are goals that shape BRDC’s work and its vision.
BRDC’s MISSION is to inspire curiosity, discovery, and stewardship through the wonders of the Blue Ridge.
We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, age, pregnancy, disability, work-related injury, covered veteran status, political ideology, marital status, or any other factor that the law protects from employment discrimination.
Seeking Applications for Facilities Manager
Blue Ridge Discovery Center is seeking applications for a Facilities Manager to help create and maintain one of the most exciting projects in Southwest Virginia. This is an opportunity to fill a vital role in the success of our mission while working at the base of Virginia’s highest mountain and in one of the most stunning landscapes in the East.
Position Announcement
Job Title: Facilities Manager
Hours: Part-time - 2 days/week
Reports to: Executive Director
Location: Blue Ridge Discovery Center, Konnarock, Virginia
Pay: Based on experience
Join Blue Ridge Discovery Center as a Facilities Manager and help create and maintain one of the most exciting projects in Southwest Virginia. This is an opportunity to fill a vital role in the success of our mission while working at the base of Virginia’s highest mountain and in one of the most stunning landscapes in the East. The approximately 10-acre property you will be managing exists to connect our community to a rich and diverse ecosystem and this position will be central to that experience.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
This part-time position at BRDC maintains and expands all facility infrastructure as needed. The position is responsible for preserving the good condition of infrastructure and ensuring that facilities are safe and well functioning. The goal is to establish a setting that inspires staff, volunteers, and participants that is also safe and hassle-free. The Facilities Manager will be challenged with maintaining a biologically diverse property that supports wildlife at all levels without the use of toxic chemicals and avoids pollutants. The position will be responsible for monitoring and producing reports on drinking and wastewater; managing waste disposal with an emphasis on reduce, reuse, recycle; inspecting and repairing buildings; maintaining clean and hazard-free grounds; managing property security; and working with volunteers, partners, and contractors to achieve maintenance goals with the dual purpose of engagement and cost-efficiency.
OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE:
Is well-organized and dedicated to property cleanliness
Has excellent organizational and leadership skills
Has excellent problem-solving skills
Maintains operations at a high level of efficiency while reducing both short and long-term maintenance costs
Efficient with task management
Ability to work independently and with a high level of personal responsibility
REQUIREMENTS:
Proven experience as a facilities manager or relevant position
Well-versed in technical/engineering operations and facilities management best practices
Proven skills in general maintenance of plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems
GED/High School Diploma required, BSc/BA in facility management, engineering, business administration, or relevant field preferred
Relevant professional qualifications (e.g. CFM) will be an advantage
Skills as a naturalist are a plus
BENEFITS:
Competitive Salary
Schedule flexibility
ABOUT BLUE RIDGE DISCOVERY CENTER
Blue Ridge Discovery Center (BRDC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to exploring, discovering, and sharing the natural history of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Founded in 2008, BRDC has built a reputation for implementing innovative hands-on experiential learning programs and initiatives. Working with all age groups from children to adults, including curious kids, professional researchers, and amateur naturalists, BRDC draws on a deep web of knowledge about local natural history to illustrate relationships within the rich flora, fauna, and geology that make up the unique Blue Ridge ecosystems. Emphasizing curiosity while establishing a life-long appreciation for the natural wonders of the Blue Ridge region are goals that shape BRDC’s work and its vision.
BRDC’s MISSION is to inspire curiosity, discovery, and stewardship through the wonders of the Blue Ridge.
We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, age, pregnancy, disability, work-related injury, covered veteran status, political ideology, marital status, or any other factor that the law protects from employment discrimination.
Seeking Applications for Naturalist/Educator
Blue Ridge Discovery Center is seeking applications for a Naturalist/Educator (N/E) and help connect our regional youth and adults to one of the greatest natural treasures in the east. This is an excellent opportunity to make an impact in our community while building naturalist skills.
Position Announcement
Job Title: Naturalist/Educator
Hours: Full-time - 40hrs/week
Reports To: Program Director
Location: Blue Ridge Discovery Center, Konnarock, Virginia
Salary: Based on experience
Join Blue Ridge Discovery Center as a Naturalist/Educator (N/E) and help connect our regional youth and adults to one of the greatest natural treasures in the East. This is an excellent opportunity to make an impact in our community while continuing to grow and develop your naturalist skills. Working as a Naturalist/Educator will be some of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of your life.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
This full-time position at BRDC is responsible for serving the organization with a personal commitment to inspire curiosity, discovery, and stewardship through the wonders of the Blue Ridge. The N/E position requires dedication to experiential learning, natural history/science education, and lifelong learning. This role coordinates and executes natural history/science programming both in the classroom and in the field during our school programs, community programs, and summer camps. The N/E works with all ages of participants including grade school kids, summer camp attendees, researchers, and adults. You will be expected to work in a wide variety of settings, including in the field, classrooms, public events, and BRDC facilities. The N/E works closely with and directly reports to the Program Director.
OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE:
Energetic, outgoing, enthusiastic, positive, inquisitive, goal-oriented, hard-working personality
Can inspire and empower others to engage in natural history
A strong base of natural history knowledge preferably focused on the Southern Appalachians
Passion for and eagerness to expand and share their own personal knowledge
Bachelor's degree in environmental education, outdoor recreation, biology, or similar
Experience in environmental education working closely with youth and/or the general public
Excellent verbal and written skills
Able to meet the physical demands of outdoor activities related to BRDC programming
Willingness to work in inclement weather conditions and wilderness settings
Can provide their own transportation
BENEFITS:
Competitive Salary
Work/life balance and flexibility
Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
Paid Federal Holidays
Assistance with certifications as required
Travel reimbursement
ABOUT BLUE RIDGE DISCOVERY CENTER
Blue Ridge Discovery Center (BRDC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to exploring, discovering, and sharing the natural history of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Founded in 2008, BRDC has built a reputation for implementing innovative hands-on experiential learning programs and initiatives. Working with all age groups from children to adults, including curious kids, professional researchers, and amateur naturalists, BRDC draws on a deep web of knowledge about local natural history to illustrate relationships within the rich flora, fauna, and geology that make up the unique Blue Ridge ecosystems. Emphasizing curiosity while establishing a life-long appreciation for the natural wonders of the Blue Ridge region are goals that shape BRDC’s work and its vision.
BRDC’s MISSION is to inspire curiosity, discovery, and stewardship through the wonders of the Blue Ridge.
We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, age, pregnancy, disability, work-related injury, covered veteran status, political ideology, marital status, or any other factor that the law protects from employment discrimination.
Seeking Applications for Bookkeeper/Administrator
Blue Ridge Discovery Center is seeking applications for a Bookkeeper/Administrator to help build the structural framework for our future. This is an opportunity to fill a vital role in the success of our mission while working at the base of Virginia’s highest mountain and in one of the most stunning landscapes in the East.
Position Announcement
Job Title: Bookkeeper/Administrator
Hours: Part-time - 3 days/week
Reports to: Executive Director
Location: Blue Ridge Discovery Center, Konnarock, Virginia
Pay: Based on experience
Join Blue Ridge Discovery Center as a Bookkeeper/Administrator (B/A) and help build the structural framework for our future. This is an opportunity to fill a vital role in the success of our mission while working at the base of Virginia’s highest mountain and in one of the most stunning landscapes in the East.
POSITION DESCRIPTION
This part-time position at BRDC takes on two closely linked roles: the Bookkeeper and Administrator. We expect the work to be focused on ⅓ bookkeeping and ⅔ administrative work.
The Bookkeeping role maintains all financial data and prepares accurate reports for our organization. Bookkeeper responsibilities include processing receipts and invoices, managing payments, and producing internal reports. The role will monitor all financial data and prepare accurate statements for BRDC and act as a consultant for the Executive Director, Program Director, and other staff. The position ensures that all our accounting transactions comply with the BRDC Accounting Policies and Procedures Manual, state and federal laws, and specific grant requirements.
The Administrator role keeps Blue Ridge Discovery Center working in an effective, efficient, mistake-free environment. Administrator responsibilities include maintaining digital and hard copy records, securing permits and insurances, managing inventories, (including office) and being the first line of public inquiry. The role will work with a variety of staff to ensure all t’s are crossed and i’s are dotted. Ultimately, you will ensure that the needed groundwork is in place for our staff to succeed.
OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE:
Clearly organized and diligent
Efficient with task management
Excellent math skills with attention to detail
Ability to work independently and with a high level of personal responsibility and confidentiality
Has an in-depth understanding of business bookkeeping practices, procedures, and accounting regulations
REQUIREMENTS:
Proven work experience as a Bookkeeper, Accountant, Non-profit Administration or similar role
Advanced knowledge of Quickbooks Online and spreadsheets
Experience in Google Sheets and Squarespace is a plus
GED/High School education required, Associates Degree/Bachelor’s Degree preferred
Additional certifications (e.g. CPA) is a plus
BENEFITS:
Competitive Salary
Schedule flexibility
ABOUT BLUE RIDGE DISCOVERY CENTER
Blue Ridge Discovery Center (BRDC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to exploring, discovering and sharing the natural history of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Founded in 2008, BRDC has built a reputation for implementing innovative hands-on experiential learning programs and initiatives. Working with all age groups from children to adults, including curious kids, professional researchers, and amateur naturalists, BRDC draws on a deep web of knowledge about local natural history to illustrate relationships within the rich flora, fauna, and geology that make up the unique Blue Ridge ecosystems. Emphasizing curiosity while establishing a life-long appreciation for the natural wonders of the Blue Ridge region are goals that shape BRDC’s work and its vision.
BRDC’s MISSION is to inspire curiosity, discovery, and stewardship through the wonders of the Blue Ridge.
We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, age, pregnancy, disability, work-related injury, covered veteran status, political ideology, marital status, or any other factor that the law protects from employment discrimination.
Journaling: A place for exploration
Journaling by definition is a record of experiences, ideas, or reflections kept regularly
I have been inspired to change! I was fortunate enough to attend a wonderful lecture and demo by Lara Gastinger on botanical illustrations and journaling that left me in awe and challenged me to do a better job. We encourage it with students in our camps and programs but I myself am not practicing what I preach. With this newfound inspiration, I hope to do a better. Loaded up with micron pens and sketchbooks, I no longer have an excuse. Now I just have to use it.
Journaling by definition is a record of experiences, ideas, or reflections kept regularly. It can be different things to different people. As a naturalist it is something I feel obligated to do. And each of us probably starts out with the intention of keeping one. I always have a little notebook and mechanical pencil in my pack but I rarely take the time to pull it out and draw or write in it.
So what should go in the journal? Well obviously, certain information is important as a naturalist. There are your observations that include the date, location, weather and such. Then there are observations specific to the flora or fauna you are observing. And then there may be intentional curiosities...my favorite part…”I notice…”, “I wonder…”, “It reminds me of…”, “What has changed since last time?”, “What am I missing here?”, and “What can I explore further?”. When drawing, one might include levels of scale. Focus can be on its habit, close-ups or the landscape. (credit to Lara Gastinger and her slides)
I stated earlier that I did not do a good job at keeping a journal but that is not exactly true. I do keep a journal. For four years now. It is my fishing journal. I’ve never missed an entry. It is simple really. I record the date, where I went, who I went with (if anyone), what the weather was like, what the day was like, the fish I caught and their sizes (if any), the flies I used, and the joy I felt that day. When looking back in this journal, it brings back all the joy from those experiences. Journaling is not just a record of what you did and where you did it, but how it made you feel. And in the future when you look back through the pages, you may discover something new and rediscover something from the past.
Ultimately what it all comes down to, is what you take out of that trip into the forest; along the stream; down the trail; or across the water. What did you see, hear, or feel and when. You do not have to be eloquent. You do not have to know how to draw. It is all about your personal reflections or thoughts and rendering that information on paper. It is a place for exploration.
1st Annual Mount Rogers Summer Naturalist Rally
After many years of thinking about a summer season rally, this August we achieved our goal. Gathering at the Konnarock Community Center for a potluck dinner and meet and greet, many new faces joined the familiar for a weekend preview of programs and hikes spanning from Friday night through Sunday morning.
After many years of thinking about a summer season rally, this August we achieved our goal. Gathering at the Konnarock Community Center for a potluck dinner and meet and greet, many new faces joined the familiar for a weekend preview of programs and hikes spanning from Friday night through Sunday morning. With over 60 participants for Friday's dinner, the potluck approach pleased everyone. Without a speaker presentation, we all had time to visit before heading to Grindstone Campground for the evening moth identification program.
Though rain fell intermittently, we were able to dash back and forth between the lit moth sheet and our tent cover for serious keying of our catch. From the very young to the almost elderly, everyone focused on the effort to ID even down to the species level.
Saturday morning, following tradition, all gathered at the community center to line up for the day’s program offerings. A simple breakfast was available, including good strong coffee. Field trip sign-ups continued right up to 8am when the trips dispersed. Birding, a hike sponsored by the Mount Rogers Appalachian Trail Club, fly fishing, medicinal plants, insect investigations, and glaciers in the Blue Ridge highlighted our morning walks. For kids, the world of spiders was explored.
Returning for lunch, hikers regained their strength for the afternoon hikes. Afternoon choices included snorkeling, a mushroom walk, a wildflower walk, a salamander hunt, tree identification, butterflies and flint knapping. The kids program involved small bio-surveys with microscopes.
The mushroom walk was a major hit, with samples brought back to the community center for identification. For over an hour, many gathered around the tables displaying a huge variety of fungal forms, as a species list grew.
Rain was an issue, but mostly after the day's activities came to a close. Back at Grindstone, campers shared an evening meal, potluck style once again, and revisited the day’s activities. Because of the rain, our hopeful star watch program was cancelled, but a salamander foray was well suited to the weather. Some intrepid hikers were treated to a rarely observed courtship behavior of the Yonahlossee salamander along the gravel road to Whitetop.
Sunday dawned behind of veil of clouds and rain, yet an ornithology walk was offered and attended. It is often said, weather is not an issue, just correct clothing. This exemplifies the spirit of a naturalist, a person whose curiosity trumps comfort while exploring the richness of our Southwest Virginia highlands.
Special thanks to the planning committee, guides and volunteers who pitched in to create such a great event!
