Job Description

Westgate Resorts is seeking an enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and engaging Smoky Mountain Naturalist to lead guests through memorable educational excursions and activities in and around the Great Smoky Mountains region. This role combines naturalist expertise with the ability to plan, organize, and guide excursions and special events for guests of all ages bringing the rich ecology, history, and culture of the Southern Appalachian Mountains to life.

As Smoky Mountain Naturalist, you will:

• Lead interpretive hikes, excursions, and nature-based programs that highlight the Southern Appalachian Mountains’ unique ecology, wildlife, plants, and history
• Share knowledge in a clear, engaging, and guest-focused manner with participants of all ages
• Create, develop, and roll out educational curriculum and interpretive programs related to Southern Appalachian ecology, history, and culture
• Design and implement interpretive signage throughout the resort that highlights local flora, fauna, and natural resources
• Train and mentor the Resort Experience team on naturalist programs to ensure consistency and interpretive integrity
• Plan, prepare, and execute special events and excursions that align with brand standards and safety protocols
• Maintain contact with local vendors, guides, and educational partners to enhance excursion offerings and strengthen community partnerships
• Network and collaborate with area naturalists to expand professional knowledge and skillsets
• Assist with budgeting, scheduling, and coordinating activities, while maintaining accurate records and tracking guest participation
• Handle guest registrations, payments, and inquiries as needed, ensuring prompt and professional services
• Maintain activity areas, equipment, and supplies in a safe, clean, and organized manner
• Continuously assess and enhance programming based on guest feedback and industry best practices
• Work flexible schedules, including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, to highlight natural resources at their best

To excel in this role, you must embody our core values of integrity, passion, and a strong work ethic. These values are essential to our success, and we are looking for someone who shares our commitment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor’s degree in biology, environmental science, ecology, forestry, wildlife management, natural resources, hospitality, or related field preferred
• Willingness to complete the Southern Appalachian Naturalist Certification Program through the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont (provided by the resort)
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs, work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions, and manage the physical demands of leading hikes and excursions
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
• Ability to pass a background check, drug screening, and verify eligibility to work in the United States

Additional Information

Why Westgate?

• Comprehensive health benefits – medical, dental and vision
• Paid Time Off (PTO) – vacation, sick, and personal
• Paid Holidays
• 401K with generous company match
• Get access to your pay as you need it with our Daily Pay benefit
• Family benefits including pregnancy, and parental leave and adoption assistance
• Wellness Programs
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Tuition Assistance
• Military Leave
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Life, Disability, Accident, Critical Illness & Hospital Insurance
• Pet Insurance
• Exclusive discounts for Team Member (i.e., hotels, cruise, resorts, restaurants, entertainment, etc.)
• Advancement & development opportunities
• Community Involvement Programs

Westgate Resorts is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. __ All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status or any other protected status under federal, state or local law. If you have a disability and believe you need a reasonable accommodation in order to complete your application or any part of the recruiting process, please email WGAccommodations@wgresorts.com with the job title and the location of the position for which you are applying.