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Volunteer with Seattle Parks & Recreation: Become a SUNGuide!

Seattle Urban Nature Guides enhance, promote and foster appreciation of nature by connecting families and students with their Seattle parklands and providing educational opportunities for all.

As a SUNGuide, you will:

  • Develop Job Skills such as public speaking, education techniques and group engagement
  • Enjoy a community of fellow volunteers and city staff
  • Receive FREE Training on environmental education techniques and equity concepts to connect with a wide variety of audiences
  • Lead hands on learning experiences in a variety of settings from playgrounds to beaches
  • Familiarize yourself with Seattle’s diverse parklands while helping others do the same 

Commitment:

  • Lead a minimum of 8 education events each year
  • Complete a required 4 Saturdays (8:45am – 3:15pm) and 2 evening virtual trainings
  • Be available during the week to lead school field trips, or weekends and evenings for community and public programs
  • Recommended to attend Fall Training 2023

Locations:

  • Trainings take place at various parks in Seattle
  • Programs and events will be held at parklands throughout Seattle

Service Days & Hours: 

  • Monday-Sunday
  • Programs and events are an average of 2 hours

To Apply

Review the position description and apply online. Questions? Contact Penny Rose at penny.rose@seattle.gov  

Seattle Urban Nature Guides enhance, promote and foster appreciation of nature by connecting families and students with their Seattle parklands and by providing educational opportunities for all.

Programs may take place in areas of rough terrain.

Duties:

  • Complete spring training; recommended to attend fall training.
  • Guide and support a minimum of 8 interpretive and educational programs with school and/or community groups.
  • Communicate regularly with city staff for scheduling, upcoming events, and other details.

Benefits:

  • Discover the natural and cultural history of parklands within Seattle.
  • Develop and hone communication, education, and group engagement skills.
  • Increase knowledge and understanding of equity.
  • Flexibility of choosing your own volunteer shifts.
  • Share fun, fellowship and community with others who enjoy nature and the appreciation of parklands throughout Seattle.

Requirements:

  • Attend the orientation and all training dates.
  • Observations of experienced SUNGuides or city education staff prior to solo leading.
  • Guide or assist with 8 programs or events by the spring of 2024.
  • Guide 2 programs or events by Fall 2023 (for admission into Fall training).
  • Enjoy working with a diverse range of audiences.
  • Follow policies and procedures of the Seattle Department of Parks and Recreation.
  • Complete a background check.
  • Provide proof of vaccination.
  • Must be 18 years or older.
  • Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Provide your own mode of transportation to event locations. If driving as a volunteer, must have proof of auto insurance, driver’s license and complete a defensive driving course.

Note: you are NOT required to drive as a volunteer

Training:

  • 1 on-line orientation session.
  • 4 days of field training and 2 virtual sessions.

Continuing Education Sessions:

  • Skill-building, natural history classes and evaluations are offered throughout the year.