Interpretive Naturalists

 INTERPRETIVE NATURALISTS (3) needed August 26 to October 31, 2026 for fall migration monitoring projects at New Jersey Audubon’s Cape May Bird Observatory (CMBO), Cape May, NJ. Cape May is renowned as one of the world’s greatest hotspots for animal migration, and a popular summertime vacation destination and beach resort. This combination offers great opportunities for wildlife research and education through public outreach. The Interpretive Naturalists will gain valuable experience in progressing from an active learner to a skilled leader with a clear understanding of how we are working to monitor and protect New Jersey’s resident and migratory wildlife, and the ability to engage a diverse public audience to become stewards of these important resources. NJ Audubon fosters the Application of sound scientific principles and practices to address conservation issues related to vertebrate and invertebrate fauna, and the natural habitats with which they are associated.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

Educational Programming

• Orient and assist visitors to the Cape May Hawkwatch, Avalon Seawatch, and Morning Flight Songbird Counts. During the peak migration times over 800 people may visit per day!
• Deliver educational workshops focused on bird identification and migration phenomena.
• Assist visitors with bird identification and assist the counters when needed.
• Maintain records of visitor numbers.
• Assist with the design and maintenance of interpretive exhibits, displays, and other center-based informational materials.

Membership

• Strive to increase NJ Audubon/Cape May Bird Observatory membership base.

Community Relations 

• Represent NJ Audubon in the local community, expanding the organization’s presence to increase local awareness, support, and participation.

Other

• Participates with other NJ Audubon staff to adopt a “team” approach towards daily operations at the assigned center.
• Assume additional responsibilities or assignments as required by supervisor or department head.

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

• Familiarity with bird migration and birding. Experience identifying raptors, passerines, and/or seabirds in flight is a plus, but learning on the job is possible. Training and support will be provided during our pre-season orientation.
• Excellent interpersonal skills including the ability to accept direction and constructive feedback.
• Motivated self-starter with capacity to work in a team setting with the ability to demonstrate initiative and a positive attitude.
• Punctual with excellent organizational, time and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects, shifting priorities and meet deadlines.
• Strong professionalism and work ethic with the ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality.
• Excellent oral communication skills required.
• Ability to relate to a diverse range of people and exercise cultural competence and inclusion.
• A willingness to work irregular hours under sometimes difficult field conditions.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Must have your own vehicle, a valid driver’s license, and be able to operate a vehicle in NJ.
• Must have the physical capacity to walk over uneven terrain for long distances, able to move materials, and to lift 25 lbs.

Starting Date:  August 26, 2026  

End Date:  October 31, 2026

Compensation: $16.00 per hour. Housing may be provided.