Current jobs related to Environmental Interpreter - Wheaton - Forest Preserve District of DuPage County

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County provides opportunities for people to connect with nature. We offer to the public 60 forest preserves, 166 miles of trails, 47 miles of rivers and streams, and 6 nature and cultural centers. We have 6 million visitors each year.

The District's mission is, "to acquire and hold lands containing forests, prairies, wetlands and associated plant communities or lands capable of being restored to such natural conditions for the purpose of protecting and preserving the flora, fauna and scenic beauty for the education, pleasure and recreation of it's citizens.

Job Summary

This position provides public engagement and interpretation by researching, developing, evaluating, promoting and presenting environmental or cultural programs at District facilities and throughout the forest preserve system.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

* Offer interpretive programming to the general public, youth, and school groups on the topics of natural history, conservation, restoration efforts, natural resources, wildlife, ecology, etc.
* Collaborate with other District staff to develop and deliver meaningful public experiences.
* Serve as a resource for information and expertise to the general public and to outside agencies.
* Train and oversee volunteers presenting programs and/or assisting with research and program development in daily activities.
* Collaborate with Community Relations to provide interpretive writing, speaking and promotion of the District and its initiatives newspaper/magazine articles, press releases, radio interviews, social media, exhibits, etc.
* Participate and collaborate in District-wide initiatives, including special committees and teams to enhance new and existing programs and offerings.
* Conduct and lead educational field studies by sampling for species, setting up study plots, and hauling equipment
* Assist with and help oversee public District summer camps, plant sales, and activities.
* Foster a working environment that promotes safe work habits; Become familiar with and observe all applicable safety rules, policies, and work procedures; Follow all safety rules that pertain to the duties performed and support all aspects of the District's safety and risk management program; Keep work area clean, orderly, and free of hazards; Immediately report all unsafe conditions and incidents.
* Maintain a supportive working environment and demonstrate a desire to exceed the expectations of internal and external customers.
* Perform other duties as required.

Requirements:

* 18 years of age or older at the time of hire.
* Bachelor's degree in biology, education, natural history, ecology, or a related field and 1 - 3 years of related experience or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
* Certified Interpretive Guide through the National Association of Interpretation preferred upon hire date. Required after hire date depending on availability.
* Must have and maintain CPR, AED, and First Aid certification or obtain upon hire (training provided).
* Must have and maintain Illinois Mandated Reporter certification or obtain upon hire (training provided).
* Valid Driver's License in good standing.
* Familiarity with native wildlife and history.
* Effective in establishing and maintaining productive workplace relationships.
* Knowledge of principles and methods of curriculum and training design.
* Effective public speaking skills.
* Ability to interpret and communicate District information and policies to the general public.
* Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
* Experience handling and placing purchase orders.
* Strong interpersonal skills, allowing for courteous, respectful, and productive interaction with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, visitors, and participants.

Starting Pay:

$25.74 - $28.97 per hour.

Schedule:

Full Time schedule requiring some availability for special events and activities outside of normal work hours.

Benefits:

Medical (PPO and HMO plans through Blue Cross Blue Shield), Dental, Vision, Flex Spending, Wellness Screenings, Life Insurance, Tuition Reimbursement, 12 paid Holidays, 12 paid Vacation Days, 5 paid Personal Days, 8 paid sick days, Pension through Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF).

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace built on a foundation of respect, integrity, teamwork, and excellence. Our organization provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.