Natural resources instructor job description

ABOUT US

Schaumburg Park District is an award-winning parks and recreation agency that provides The Schaumburg Park District is an award-winning parks and recreation agency that provides its 80,000 residents with a wide variety of recreational programs, classes, and events, as well as facilities, parks and open spaces! Spring Valley features 135 acres of prairie, woodlands and wetlands, three miles of walking trails, a nature center, an 1880s living history farm and the Bison’s Bluff Nature Playground.

JOB SUMMARY

Under the supervision of the Environmental Education Program Supervisor, Nature Center Instructors are responsible for leading environmental education programs for all age and interest groups within the community, with an emphasis on elementary school-aged children. Nature Center Instructors lead educational and hands-on activities related to specific program themes, maintaining the interest of their participants throughout the program. They will assist with program set-up and clean-up, ensuring that program areas are available to be used for other activities. They will work with the supervisor to adapt programs to accurately meet the written program objectives and the needs of the group. They will also attend all trainings pertaining to their job.

QUALIFICATIONS

The best applicant will have had some experience in leading either classroom education or informal environmental or outdoor interpretation. They should have a strong interest in nature and enjoy working with children. They must have excellent oral and written communication skills, as well as strong organizational skills. They will be able to work both independently, as well as part of a team. They will be able to work in the out-of-doors in all types of weather. Having previous experience with outdoor program development and presentation is preferred, but not required. Having some knowledge and understanding of Illinois ecosystems, plants, and wildlife is preferred. Having a flexible working schedule is preferred. Possess certification in CPR/AED preferred; training is provided if not certified.

SCHEDULING & PAY

This is a part-time position with variable hours (all four seasons available) starting pay is $13.00/hour. Schedule can vary from week to week. Youth group programs generally run 9:00am-2:00pm during weekdays; summer camps run between the hours of 9:00am-4:00pm. Occasional evening or weekend hours may be available and assigned by supervisor.

PERKS & PRIVILEGES: These are PART-TIME LEVEL 3 positions and are eligible for the following:

• Free fitness center membership!
• Free admission to indoor and outdoor pools!
• One free program registration per season for self or family*! (*see definition*)
• 10% discount on other program registrations
• Free paddle boat rental at Volkening Lake!
• Free open gym admission! And more!

** Position will be open until filled. ** Schaumburg Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. **

Keywords: park, parks, recreation, fun, community, nature, nature center, environment, environmental education, education, classroom, teaching, instructing, elementary education, programs, programming, recreation programming, outdoor programming, outdoors, biology, natural sciences, outdoors, hiking, camp, ecosystems, plants, wildlife, trees, horticulture, flowers