NATURALIST

Work in this position occurs mostly on weekdays between the hours of 9:00 am to 2:00 pm.

JOB SUMMARY: Naturalists must be able to effectively provide quality outdoor and environmental education programs to diverse groups, including but not limited to pre-K through 12 students and teachers, scout, homeschool, and other community groups. The H-F Park District’s mission statement is “to enhance the quality of life through diverse recreational opportunities, facilities and parks while caring for the environment”.

ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Provide outstanding customer service to our internal and external guests by providing friendly, responsive, courteous and helpful service.
- Prepare for, and conduct environmental education on-site and outreach programs for schools, preschools, scouts, birthday, homeschool, and other community groups.
- Coordinate with other Naturalists in daily planning.
- Collect waivers as necessary.
- Assist with special events.
- Some evening and weekend work required.
- Assist with habitat management efforts at Irons Oaks.
- Other related job duties as assigned.

COGNITIVE SKILLS REQUIRED:
- Assist in the implementation of Irons Oaks Environmental Education projects and programs.
- Understand program and educational goals and objectives.
- Be able to communicate program goals and objectives with Irons Oaks staff, teachers, and participants.
- Respond to questions from program participants, recognize changes in ecosystems.
- Respond to participants at the appropriate level.
- Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

JOB SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:
- Working knowledge of natural systems, ecology and biodiversity.
- Understanding of environmental issues and education processes.
- Must be able to effectively communicate with groups of all ages.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING:
- Minimum 2 years college credit.
- Experience in or strong interest in outdoor and environmental education.
- AED and CPR certification.
- Participate in Irons Oaks trainings.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
STANDING: Frequently
SITTING: Frequently
WALKING: Frequently
LIFTING: Frequently: minimum 25 lbs. maximum 50 lbs. 75 lbs. with assistance.
STOOPING: Frequently
REACHING: Frequently
CLIMBING: Occasionally
VERBAL: Proficient ability to communicate concepts and activities
with various age groups.
VISION: Safety, write and read English

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS:
- Will be exposed to all weather conditions.
- Will conduct environmental programs at Irons Oaks (indoors and outdoors), schools, schoolyard habitats and off-site natural areas.

Part-Time Benefits:

• Discounted individual fitness membership at Racquet Fitness Center
• Discounted golf fees and driving range tokens at Coyote Run
• Individual admission to open skate at H-F Ice Arena
• Individual Lions pool pass
• 20% off (1) facility rental/year
• 20% off birthday party package for child(ren)
• 20% off program fees
• Irons Oaks ropes course & climbing tower
• Individual ski rental at Irons Oaks (cross-country skiing)
• 457 Retirement Plan
• Participation in Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund - only available if required minimum hours are met (work more than 1,000 hours in a year).
• Additional benefits for facility employees only.
• Paid CPR/AED training and certification.
• Paid Leave Time Off

Salary : $16 - $18