Nature Camp Aide

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: Must be a minimum of 16 years of age. Should have an affinity for working with children and an understanding of children’s developmental skills and abilities. Should show interest in the natural world and be willing and able to work in a variety of weather conditions and evenings as needed. Maintain DCFS Mandated Reporter and First Aid/CPR/AED certifications or obtain certifications within 30 days of hire.

Preferred: Minimum of 2 years of high school completed and some college preferred. Previous experience working with children 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 Nature School, Camps & Youth Programs Supervisor, the Nature Camp Aide shall complete their assigned duties to the best of their abilities, offering suggestions of better ways to accomplish jobs and be ever mindful of the best interests of the St. Charles Park District and of fellow employees. This position requires extensive knowledge and ability to:

• Attend nature camp training prior to the first day of camp and participate in ongoing training sessions throughout the summer.
• Assist in engaging and exciting campers about nature topics.
• Assist in relating principles of life sciences, earth sciences and physical sciences using age- appropriate language to a variety of grade levels.
• React quickly to natural phenomena to take advantage of teachable moments.
• Arrive promptly at teaching sites to assist in program setup.
• Engage program participants in activities during camper drop-off.
• Greet program participants in a friendly and professional manner.
• Assist in utilizing effective group management in an outdoor setting.
• Perform CPR and First Aid as needed. Certified or ability to become certified.
• Monitor and request supplies as needed.
• Fill in as Nature Camp Aide with any age group as needed.
• Assist in program cleanup prior to end of work day.
• Follow all safety procedures that pertain to the duties performed.
• Support all aspects of the Park District’s Safety Program.

Marginal Functions of the Position

• Perform other related duties and/or special projects 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 III employees:

• District Incentives
  • Paid Training
  • Discounts for Programs

Salary : $16