Job Details Job Location
Wildwood Nature Center - Park Ridge, IL
Salary Range
$18.00 - $19.50 Hourly
Description OVERVIEW
The Park Ridge Park District Wildwood Nature and Program Center has a unique opening for a creative, nature loving individual that enjoys the outdoors, animals, & teaching people of all ages, with an emphasis on ages 11 and under. We are a five acre park that has one and a half acres of restored native tallgrass prairie, two ponds, a campfire circle, covered pavilion with a fireplace, walking trails, and a small woodland area. Our Wildwood Program Center building features three classrooms and our Wildwood Nature Center building houses an animal exhibit room that is home to over 50 animals and our Nature Nook playroom. Wildwood also has additional nature programming in two classrooms at an adjacent facility.
Description: The Program Assistant works with other Nature Center staff members under the direction of the Nature Program Coordinators and embraces a philosophy that encourages outdoor exploration, hands on learning, and appreciation of the natural world. This position is responsible for assisting with the curriculum development, preparation of programs and events for all ages, and instructs environmental education programs for children, ages twelve months through high school, and adults, with the majority of the programming for ages two through eight years old. Individual must be comfortable handling animals for programs and visitor interaction. This position is also the Lead Teacher in one of the Nature Preschool or Nature Playschool classrooms. Will assist with overseeing and guiding part-time staff and volunteers, oversee a camp program in the summer, and lead nature trips.
Qualifications: Requires one to two years' of experience working with children, preferably in a Nature Center or environmental education setting. An intermediate level written and verbal communication in the English language is required as well as knowledge of Microsoft Word, Publisher, and Excel. Knowledge of RecTrac Registration System a plus. Must be CPR/AED and First-Aid certified or have the ability to become certified (through the Park District) within 90 days of hire date. Must be at least 21 years old and have a valid Illinois Driver's License in order to drive a District vehicle.
Education: Bachelor's Degree in Outdoor/Environmental Education, Forestry, Environmental Science, Education, Biology or related field of study. Skills and knowledge of environmental interpretation with experience presenting environmental education and interpretive programs to diverse audiences including children 18 months through high school, adults and community groups preferred. Knowledge of local flora and fauna preferred.
Availability: Approximately 25-40 hours per week, averaging 29 hours a week year-round. Hours vary based on program schedule; evening, weekend, and holiday hours are to be expected.
Benefits: This is an IMRF (Pension) position, in addition our employees enjoy a multitude of facility benefits valued up to $6,000 such as:
Memberships at our: Fitness Center and Activity Center (for Active Adults 55+) Indoor and Outdoor Pool Use Private Room Rental for Your Special Occasions Classes such as: Fitness, Tae Kwon Do, dog obedience Discounted Preschool and Summer Camps for dependents
Select the following link for a full summary of benefits: Part-time Staff Benefit Highlights
Job Description: Select the following link to view full job description: Program Assistant job description