HKDC Nature Programs Facilitator II

Job Summary – About the Role

Deliver high quality recreation services for residents, visitors and the St. Charles community by adhering to the District’s safety and administrative policies and procedures.

Knowledge, Skills & Experience

This position is well suited for someone with a friendly and positive personality who is productive and shows initiative, is an effective written and oral communicator, is reliable and safety-minded.

Required:              Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Education, Natural Resources, Biological sciences or Education required. Valid driver’s license required. Must have basic understanding of regional ecosystems, including plant and animal life. At least two years of experience communicating effectively with diverse audiences, including students, families and the general public. Interpretation of natural resources in formal and informal program settings. Excellent customer service skills. Willingness to work in a variety of weather conditions and flexibility to work nights and weekends as nature center operations demand. Maintain First Aid/CPR/AED certification and DCFS Mandated Reporter Certification or obtain certification within 30 days of hire.

Preferred: Experience in development, design and implementation of nature education programs preferred.

Essential Functions of the Position

Park District Cornerstones

• Follow all departmental safety rules that pertain to the duties performed and support all aspects of Park District’s safety and risk management program.
• Work cooperatively and collaboratively with residents, colleagues, the public, PDRMA and other agencies or organizations as delegated.
• Recommends improvements and efficiencies to better accomplish individual and district goals in the best interests of the St. Charles Park District community.
• Comply with park district policies and administrative procedures.

Responsibilities

Under the direction and supervision of the Superintendent of Parks and Planning, the Assistant Superintendent of Outdoor Education and the Manager of Nature Programs, the Nature Programs Facilitator II shall complete all assigned duties to the best of their abilities, offering suggestions of better ways to accomplish tasks and be ever mindful of the best interests of the Park District and fellow employees. This position is part-time as defined within the Park District’s Personnel Manual.  Generally described, this position averages 25 hours per week on an annual basis.  This position requires extensive knowledge and ability to:

• Lead and present nature programs and other visitor experiences for a variety of audiences.
• Under the direction of supervisors, develop new programs, exhibits and visitor activities.
• Participate in program set-up and tear-down.
• Attend program training sessions and develop proficiency in program content and concepts.
• Greet program participants in a friendly and professional manner.
• Relate life science, earth science and physical science concepts and content in an age-appropriate and engaging manner.
• Travel as needed to off-site venues for program delivery.
• Facilitate casual visitor experiences at the Hickory Knolls Discovery Center and in park district natural areas.
• Assist in the care of live animals in the center’s exhibit areas.
• Provide customer service, including reservation and event assistance for the center’s rental customers.
• Answer telephones, greet and accommodate customers.
• Assist Hickory Knolls Discovery Center staff in the completion of their duties.
• Maintain orderly, professional and safe workspaces.
• Have a working knowledge of and ability to communicate and enforce Park District procedures, rules and policies.

Marginal Functions of the Position

• Perform light cleaning and custodial duties.
• Assume other responsibilities as assigned.

Physical and Environmental Requirements

EEO Statement and Accommodations

The St Charles Park District is an equal opportunity employer under all state and federal laws and regulations.  The job responsibilities are subject to accommodations pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. If you require assistance or accommodation with the application process, please contact the Business Department at 630-584-1055.

The Park District offers the following benefits to all Part-Time Category II employees:

• Time Off: The Park District provides paid vacation days in accordance with the Park District’s vacation policies, rules, and regulations. 
• Retirement: Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) pension plan
  • Includes Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Benefit
• Additional District Incentives
  • Paid Training
  • Discounts for Programs

Salary : $17