TITLE: Nature Program Lead
CATEGORY: Part-time
SALARY: $16 per hour
To apply for this great opportunity: Email your resume to Laura Saletta at laura@obtpd.org
Who we are: The Lake View Nature Center, located by the pond at Terrace View Park, is dedicated to bringing fun, hands-on environmental education and recreation opportunities to residents and the general public, promoting awareness and appreciation of the natural world. We are proud of our live animal exhibit, and our vast collection of preserved specimens.
Who we need: The Nature Program Lead should have at least 1 year of experience in a nature education or recreational program position. A high comfort level of handling and caring for live animals (including snakes and invertebrates) is essential. Must be willing to work most Saturdays. Reliable transportation is necessary. Experience working with persons with disabilities in a recreation setting, community agency, or school setting is preferred.
What you’ll do: The Nature Program Lead is responsible for the development and facilitation of nature-based curriculum. The Nature Program Lead will also help in the maintenance of the habitats and feeding of the live animal collection. The Nature Program Lead is a part-time employee working an average of 16 hours per week. Work pace is moderate to active depending on the task required.
What you’ll get: The starting pay for this position is $16.00/hour. Employment with the Oakbrook Terrace Park District also includes Fitness Center membership, paid trainings (including CPR/AED training), and park district gear and apparel.
QUALIFICATIONS:
The Nature Program Lead should have at least 1 year of experience in a nature education or recreational program position. A high comfort level of handling and caring for live animals (including snakes and invertebrates) is essential. The Nature Program Lead must have experience working with Microsoft computer programs. Reliable transportation is necessary. Experience working with persons with disabilities in a recreation setting, community agency, or school setting is preferred.
IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR:
The Nature Program Lead is under the supervision of the Nature Center Coordinator.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Plan and teach nature classes offered in the Park District seasonal brochure. Must be willing to work most Saturdays among the regularly assigned shifts.
- Create and keep organized lesson materials for brochure classes and group offerings.
- Maintain the habitats and feeding of the live animal collection, including snakes, turtles, invertebrates, and birds.
- Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the exhibit space and materials.
- Lead or assist with programs for visiting groups, including community groups, Scouts, or birthday parties.
- Attend scheduled Nature Center staff meetings.
- Attend Park District trainings as required.
- Assist at Park District events as needed.
- Assist with other various Nature Center duties as needed.
DESIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND TRAITS:
- Efficient and timely communicator.
- Punctual and dependable.
- Excellent customer service skills (patrons and inquiries).
- Work well with all departments and personalities.
MARGINAL FUNCTIONS:
- Have a basic knowledge of all Park District programs and special events or know how and where to obtain the information.
- Assist all employees of the Park District as needed.
PSYCHOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS:
The Nature Program Lead may feel added pressure from the needs for multiple areas of focus while teaching. The Nature Program Lead must remain calm and continue to maintain a safe and positive experience. The Nature Program Lead must continually develop creative responses to problems, while complying with Park District standards.
PHYSIOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS:
The Nature Program Lead must be able to bend, stoop, lift items weighing up to 30 pounds, turn, sit, and stand for short or extended periods of time.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS:
The Nature Program Lead may be exposed to elements when leading outdoor activities. Many activities are performed outdoors. Conditions to consider may include extreme temperatures, precipitation, and sunlight exposure.
COGNITIVE CONSIDERATIONS:
The Nature Program Lead must exhibit good problem-solving abilities and good judgment in keeping with the mission of the Park District. The Nature Program Lead must follow the loss prevention and safety policies of the Park District.