DIRECTOR - HELMER NATURE CENTER (FULL TIME-10 MONTH / STUDENT CALENDAR)
West Irondequoit Central School District, Irondequoit, New York, United States
DIRECTOR - HELMER NATURE CENTER (FULL TIME-10 MONTH / STUDENT CALENDAR)
JobID: 1592
Position Type: Administration/ Director
Date Posted: 2/10/2026
Location: Helmer Nature Center
Date Available: 06/01/2026
Closing Date: 03/10/2026
POSITION VACANCY POSITION 8 hours per day / 10-month Student Calendar (Full-time)
Hours – 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM or as needed based on scheduled events (includes 1-hour unpaid lunch)
ASSIGNMENT
Helmer Nature Center
154 Pinegrove Avenue
Rochester, New York 14617
REQUIREMENTS HELMER NATURE CENTER PROGRAM OVERVIEW (Link) The Helmer Nature Center (HNC) Director will be responsible for the overall management of the HNC, including, education, finance, facilities and community relations. The Director is responsible for a small staff of full and part-time employees. Permanent appointment upon successful completion of Monroe County Civil Service Nature Interpreter Civil Service Examination with reachable results. Initially, this position will be a provisional appointment through Civil Service and the Civil Service exam will be required, unless you currently hold the appropriate title.
www.westirondequoit.org/community/helmer-nature-center
SALARY RANGE $60,000 - $75,000 annually.
Commensurate with experience.
STARTING DATE Estimated June 1, 2026
APPLICATION PROCEDURE Consideration of a candidate's application requires the following included with your application:
Apply for this specific position on-line at: https://www.applitrack.com/westirondequoit/onlineapp by March 10, 2026
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Letter of Interest
Resume
Letters of Reference (3)
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement West Irondequoit Central School District is in compliance with the U.S. Civil Service Rights Act of 1964 and the TITLE IX Educational Amendments of 1972, Part 86. The School District provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, gender, age, disability, or sexual orientation. Any student, parent, employee, or the general public that has an inquiry regarding the non-discrimination policy may direct the inquiry to:
Title IX Coordinator West Irondequoit CSD 321 List Avenue Rochester, New York 14617
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY The Helmer Nature Center (HNC) Director will be responsible for the overall management of the HNC, including, education, finance, facilities and community relations. The Director is responsible for a small staff of full and part-time employees. The Director is responsible to the Assistant Superintendent for Finance.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Is familiar with and contributes to the successful implementation of the District's Strategic Action Plan, our Mission and core commitments:
Improving Educational Opportunity
Work with staff in planning and implementing all school age programs.
Meet with teachers to support New York State standards.
Prepare and provide for HNC staff development.
Prepare and provide staff development through the TLC.
Responsible for National and state programs for recognition and accreditation.
Facilities
Oversee development and maintenance of the Helmer Nature Center.
Work in conjunction with Director of Environmental Services and Assistant Superintendent for Finance to ensure all trails are safe and clean.
Collaborates with the Director of STEAM for use of the STEAM space.
Develop an annual budget planning for both general fund and trust and agency accounts
Responsible for fund raising as necessary
Responsible for grant seeking and writing as necessary
Works with the district's treasurer to ensure financial accountability and responsibility
Community Relations
Coordinator and member of ACTION Council.
Act as liaison with the media in coordination with the Director of Public Information.
Responsible for maintaining community relations with the Board of Education, PTSA, HNC neighbors and other community leaders.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Assistant Superintendent for Finance.
Personnel
Works in conjunction with Personnel to recruit all HNC staff.
Responsible for the supervision of all staff including the site coordinator, naturalists and interns.
Duties
Oversees the Helmer Nature Center Staff Naturalists, assistants, and volunteers.
Plans and executes the District Pre‑K - 12 programs for the Helmer Nature Center.
Member of the Helmer Nature Center Action Council.
Develops, coordinates and administers budget for the Helmer Nature Center.
Responsible for grant writing for the HNC.
Responsible for community activities.
Performs such other tasks and assumes such other responsibilities as directed by the Superintendent of Schools or his/her designee.
Collaborates with the Director of STEAM to provide learning experiences to all students.
QUALIFICATIONS
Successful experience leading and/or working with a school related extension.
Strong communication skills; oral and written
AUTHORITY The Helmer Nature Center Director is directly responsible to the Assistant Superintendent of Finance and district leadership staff.
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS This position is responsible for assisting in the development and preparation of nature study programs, displays, nature trails, and exhibits of natural history. The employee reports directly to, and works under the general supervision of, a Supervising Nature Interpreter, Director of Parks and Recreation, Superintendent of Recreational and Educational Programs, or other higher level staff member. Direct supervision of others is not a responsibility of this class, however, the incumbent may provide lead supervision over seasonal and/or part‑time employees, volunteers or interns. Does related work as required.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES Coordinates special events; Develops and maintains nature trails; Develops exhibits on natural history; Plans and conducts environmental and ecological educational programs for groups or individuals; Prepares and presents lectures for presentation at the parks or for community groups, schools, or agencies; Interprets plant and animal life in park areas; Interprets geological background, topography, and natural history of park areas; Assists in maintenance of program facilities; Handles live animals.
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS Good knowledge of the natural environment, including plant and animal life, and geology; ability to develop nature trails and displays; ability to coordinate special events; ability to speak in public and in front of groups; ability to follow oral and written directions; ability to conduct walks, tours, and study programs; ability to recognize and identify wildlife and plants; ability to work well with the public; good judgment; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Graduation from high school or possession of an equivalency diploma plus, EITHER:
(A) Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with an Associate’s degree (or sixty (60) college semester credit hours) with major study (at least eighteen (18) semester credit hours) in Biology, Botany, Education, Environmental or Earth Science, Environmental Studies, Forestry, Forestry and Recreation, Geology, Horticulture, Wildlife Management, or Zoology, or a closely related field; OR
(B) Two (2) years of paid full‑time or its part‑time or volunteer equivalent experience in assembling or developing displays or exhibits for nature study, horticulture, landscaping, or parks management, OR in program development and implementation of interpretive nature or wildlife education; OR
(C) Any equivalent combination of training and experience as defined by the limits of (A) and (B).
*NOTE: Candidates who meet the minimum qualification under (A) must submit an official or student copy of a college transcript, or an itemized list of course work and credits received, at the time of application.
**Volunteer experience must be documented by the participating agency. Employment dates, average number of hours worked per week, and job duties must be included.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENT If you are appointed, you will be required to have a valid license to operate a motor vehicle in New York State or otherwise demonstrate your capacity to meet the transportation needs of the job.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Depending on the position duties, candidates for employment with the Monroe County Government will be required to pass a pre‑employment drug test.
Per Chapter 180 of the Laws of 2000, and by Regulations of the Commissioner of Education, to be employed in a position designated by a school district or BOCES as involving direct contact with students, a clearance for employment from the State Education Department is required.
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JobID: 1592
Position Type: Administration/ Director
Date Posted: 2/10/2026
Location: Helmer Nature Center
Date Available: 06/01/2026
Closing Date: 03/10/2026
POSITION VACANCY POSITION 8 hours per day / 10-month Student Calendar (Full-time)
Hours – 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM or as needed based on scheduled events (includes 1-hour unpaid lunch)
ASSIGNMENT
Helmer Nature Center
154 Pinegrove Avenue
Rochester, New York 14617
REQUIREMENTS HELMER NATURE CENTER PROGRAM OVERVIEW (Link) The Helmer Nature Center (HNC) Director will be responsible for the overall management of the HNC, including, education, finance, facilities and community relations. The Director is responsible for a small staff of full and part-time employees. Permanent appointment upon successful completion of Monroe County Civil Service Nature Interpreter Civil Service Examination with reachable results. Initially, this position will be a provisional appointment through Civil Service and the Civil Service exam will be required, unless you currently hold the appropriate title.
www.westirondequoit.org/community/helmer-nature-center
SALARY RANGE $60,000 - $75,000 annually.
Commensurate with experience.
STARTING DATE Estimated June 1, 2026
APPLICATION PROCEDURE Consideration of a candidate's application requires the following included with your application:
Apply for this specific position on-line at: https://www.applitrack.com/westirondequoit/onlineapp by March 10, 2026
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Letter of Interest
Resume
Letters of Reference (3)
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement West Irondequoit Central School District is in compliance with the U.S. Civil Service Rights Act of 1964 and the TITLE IX Educational Amendments of 1972, Part 86. The School District provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, gender, age, disability, or sexual orientation. Any student, parent, employee, or the general public that has an inquiry regarding the non-discrimination policy may direct the inquiry to:
Title IX Coordinator West Irondequoit CSD 321 List Avenue Rochester, New York 14617
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY The Helmer Nature Center (HNC) Director will be responsible for the overall management of the HNC, including, education, finance, facilities and community relations. The Director is responsible for a small staff of full and part-time employees. The Director is responsible to the Assistant Superintendent for Finance.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Is familiar with and contributes to the successful implementation of the District's Strategic Action Plan, our Mission and core commitments:
Improving Educational Opportunity
Work with staff in planning and implementing all school age programs.
Meet with teachers to support New York State standards.
Prepare and provide for HNC staff development.
Prepare and provide staff development through the TLC.
Responsible for National and state programs for recognition and accreditation.
Facilities
Oversee development and maintenance of the Helmer Nature Center.
Work in conjunction with Director of Environmental Services and Assistant Superintendent for Finance to ensure all trails are safe and clean.
Collaborates with the Director of STEAM for use of the STEAM space.
Develop an annual budget planning for both general fund and trust and agency accounts
Responsible for fund raising as necessary
Responsible for grant seeking and writing as necessary
Works with the district's treasurer to ensure financial accountability and responsibility
Community Relations
Coordinator and member of ACTION Council.
Act as liaison with the media in coordination with the Director of Public Information.
Responsible for maintaining community relations with the Board of Education, PTSA, HNC neighbors and other community leaders.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Assistant Superintendent for Finance.
Personnel
Works in conjunction with Personnel to recruit all HNC staff.
Responsible for the supervision of all staff including the site coordinator, naturalists and interns.
Duties
Oversees the Helmer Nature Center Staff Naturalists, assistants, and volunteers.
Plans and executes the District Pre‑K - 12 programs for the Helmer Nature Center.
Member of the Helmer Nature Center Action Council.
Develops, coordinates and administers budget for the Helmer Nature Center.
Responsible for grant writing for the HNC.
Responsible for community activities.
Performs such other tasks and assumes such other responsibilities as directed by the Superintendent of Schools or his/her designee.
Collaborates with the Director of STEAM to provide learning experiences to all students.
QUALIFICATIONS
Successful experience leading and/or working with a school related extension.
Strong communication skills; oral and written
AUTHORITY The Helmer Nature Center Director is directly responsible to the Assistant Superintendent of Finance and district leadership staff.
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS This position is responsible for assisting in the development and preparation of nature study programs, displays, nature trails, and exhibits of natural history. The employee reports directly to, and works under the general supervision of, a Supervising Nature Interpreter, Director of Parks and Recreation, Superintendent of Recreational and Educational Programs, or other higher level staff member. Direct supervision of others is not a responsibility of this class, however, the incumbent may provide lead supervision over seasonal and/or part‑time employees, volunteers or interns. Does related work as required.
TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES Coordinates special events; Develops and maintains nature trails; Develops exhibits on natural history; Plans and conducts environmental and ecological educational programs for groups or individuals; Prepares and presents lectures for presentation at the parks or for community groups, schools, or agencies; Interprets plant and animal life in park areas; Interprets geological background, topography, and natural history of park areas; Assists in maintenance of program facilities; Handles live animals.
FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS Good knowledge of the natural environment, including plant and animal life, and geology; ability to develop nature trails and displays; ability to coordinate special events; ability to speak in public and in front of groups; ability to follow oral and written directions; ability to conduct walks, tours, and study programs; ability to recognize and identify wildlife and plants; ability to work well with the public; good judgment; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Graduation from high school or possession of an equivalency diploma plus, EITHER:
(A) Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered college or university with an Associate’s degree (or sixty (60) college semester credit hours) with major study (at least eighteen (18) semester credit hours) in Biology, Botany, Education, Environmental or Earth Science, Environmental Studies, Forestry, Forestry and Recreation, Geology, Horticulture, Wildlife Management, or Zoology, or a closely related field; OR
(B) Two (2) years of paid full‑time or its part‑time or volunteer equivalent experience in assembling or developing displays or exhibits for nature study, horticulture, landscaping, or parks management, OR in program development and implementation of interpretive nature or wildlife education; OR
(C) Any equivalent combination of training and experience as defined by the limits of (A) and (B).
*NOTE: Candidates who meet the minimum qualification under (A) must submit an official or student copy of a college transcript, or an itemized list of course work and credits received, at the time of application.
**Volunteer experience must be documented by the participating agency. Employment dates, average number of hours worked per week, and job duties must be included.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENT If you are appointed, you will be required to have a valid license to operate a motor vehicle in New York State or otherwise demonstrate your capacity to meet the transportation needs of the job.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Depending on the position duties, candidates for employment with the Monroe County Government will be required to pass a pre‑employment drug test.
Per Chapter 180 of the Laws of 2000, and by Regulations of the Commissioner of Education, to be employed in a position designated by a school district or BOCES as involving direct contact with students, a clearance for employment from the State Education Department is required.
#J-18808-Ljbffr