Environmental Program Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

Summary:

Under the direction of the Manager of Peck Farm Park Interpretive Center, the Program Assistant is responsible for assisting with and leading classes, programs; general office duties at Peck Farm Park; assisting with exhibits; general maintenance of the facilities as needed; and special duties as assigned.

Supervisor:

The Part-time Peck Farm Park Program Assistant reports to the Manager of Peck Farm Park Program Coordinator, Manager of Peck Farm Park Interpretive Center, Superintendent of Recreation and the Executive Director.

Hours:
Hours may fluctuate with season, program and/or office needs. Due to the nature of the work, evening and weekend hours are required. Schedule: M-F: as assigned and S-Sunday: as assigned.

Essential Functions:
1.    Assist with and lead, as necessary, interpretative programs at Peck Farm Park with an emphasis in environmental education, natural and cultural history, for individuals and groups of all ages, including families, scout groups, school groups, preschoolers, and birthday party groups.
2.    Understand and interpret recreational, educational, historical and environmental resources at Peck Farm Park to all visitors.
3.    Maintain displays and exhibits for the Nature Discovery, Hawks Hollow and History Rooms. General maintenance of the Peck House and park grounds as needed.
4.    Understand and share the natural and cultural history of Peck Farm Park.
5.    General office duties as required. 
Marginal Functions:
1.    Assist with Special Events as needed.
2.    Complete special projects as assigned.
3.    Assist all employees of the Park District as needed.

Communications:

1. Inform the Program Coordinator, Peck Farm Park Manager, Superintendent of Recreation and Executive Director of all pertinent matters and work schedule.

1. Establish a pleasant attitude on the telephone and in person.

1. Communicate all necessary information to main office staff.

Safety Program:

1.         Responsible for knowing the Park District’s safety procedures and requirements. This includes completion and follow-through on all accident reports, emergency safety procedures, reporting of hazardous equipment, facilities or conditions, and the conduct of any employee to their supervisor. Report all incidents and potential hazards to the safety committee as soon as possible.

Physical Requirements:

1.   Handle Park District materials up to 50 pounds. Assistance will be provided when necessary.

2.   Capable of remaining outdoors for long periods of time during programs or garden/natural areas work in the heat of summer and cold of winter.

Cognitive Considerations:

1.   Resolve differences and problems that arise with patrons and work together with employees.

2.   The Program Instructor/ Gift Shop Attendant must exhibit good problem-solving ability and good judgment in keeping with the mission of the Park District.

Communications:

1. Inform the Program Coordinator, Peck Farm Park Manager, Superintendent of Recreation and Executive Director of all pertinent matters and work schedule.

1. Establish a pleasant attitude on the telephone and in person.

1. Communicate all necessary information to main office staff.

Safety Program:

1.         Responsible for knowing the Park District’s safety procedures and requirements. This includes completion and follow-through on all accident reports, emergency safety procedures, reporting of hazardous equipment, facilities or conditions, and the conduct of any employee to their supervisor. Report all incidents and potential hazards to the safety committee as soon as possible.

Physical Requirements:

1.   Handle Park District materials up to 50 pounds. Assistance will be provided when necessary.

2.   Capable of remaining outdoors for long periods of time during programs or garden/natural areas work in the heat of summer and cold of winter.

Cognitive Considerations:

1.   Resolve differences and problems that arise with patrons and work together with employees.

2.   The Program Instructor/ Gift Shop Attendant must exhibit good problem-solving ability and good judgment in keeping with the mission of the Park District.

Qualifications:

1-3 years’ experience leading youth programs. Experience working in park settings and planning and facilitating non-formal education programs. Familiarity with the principles and techniques of interpretation and with environmental education curricula. must have experience in public relations and office work or a combination of education, experience and training which provides the following required knowledge and skills; modern office support skills and procedures.