Public Engagement Programs Lead

Department: Public Engagement

Reports to: Public Engagement Manager

Classification: Part-Time 20-25 hours per week

Background:

The Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance (GPCA) was formed in 1995 and incorporated in 1998 as a private, non-profit organization committed to the restoration and revitalization of the Garfield Park Conservatory. While the Conservatory is owned and operated by the Chicago Park District, GPCA is responsible for developing and funding quality programs and events, promoting community engagement and enhancing visitor services. In its 28 years, the Alliance has facilitated exponential growth, welcoming more than 200,000 visitors in 2025. 

Position Summary:

The Public Engagement Programs Lead is a part-time, year-round, non-exempt position. Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to: 

Position Responsibilities:

•  For art & nature based monthly Wednesday evening drop-in programs for adults, this position will take the program from idea to facilitation.


• This position will assist with facilitation and hosting of additional drop-in and music programs.


• Host programs with external facilitators and organizational collaborators (U of I Extension, Midwest Bonsai Club, Openlands etc.) including day-of logistics and assist with pre-program logistics and hosting duties.


• Ensure accessibility standards are met, and accommodations requests are folded into planning. This includes coordinating ASL and CART services for specific programs and ensuring physical accessibility for programming.


• Oversee ticket sales and waitlists for fee-based and free programs. Administer surveys to get program feedback and incorporate it into future program planning.


• Assist and help facilitate additional programs and special events. 

Other: Location & Schedule:

• Average 20-25 hours per week 


• Other duties as assigned

• Some nights or weekends required 


• The location for this position is on-site at the Garfield Park Conservatory & Gardens


• Working on-site you may be exposed to live insects or critters due to the abundance of living plants housed throughout the Conservatory & Gardens


• Work on select evenings and weekends as needed


• Tuesday – Saturday schedule with some Wednesday evening

Qualifications:

• High School diploma or equivalent, with at least 1 year of working experience in education, preferably with adults


• Interest in museum-based or informal adult education, with a background in art, gardening, science or environmental education


• Strong organizational skills to oversee many moving parts


• Have clear and consistent communication methods to communicate with multiple colleagues including external partners, guests, programming staff, Chicago Park District staff, janitorial staff and security guards


• Must be an enthusiastic and charismatic representative of our organization, enjoy and excel at direct service, and love working with adults from a variety of backgrounds 


• Prioritize inclusive and equitable programming 


• Must be able to work a Tuesday – Saturday schedule with some Wednesday evening programming; all programs require on-site attendance

Preferred Qualifications:

• Preference for West Side (Garfield Park, Austin, North Lawndale, West Humboldt Park) applicants


• Experience in creating or facilitating programming for people with disabilities


• Spanish language fluency 

Garfield Park Conservatory Alliance (GPCA) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Prohibits Discrimination and Harassment of Any Kind.

GPCA is committed to equal employment opportunities for all and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions at GPCA are based on the organizational needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. GPCA will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics. GPCA encourages applicants of all ages.