Temporary Naturalist

Temporary Naturalists plan and carry out public nature programs and lead four weeks of Adventure Camp. Public programs are for all ages and campers are 10-15 years old.  

SCHEDULE 

• 40 hours/week, May 13 – August 9, with opportunities for overtime.  
• Employees must work some evenings, weekends and two camp overnights.  
• This schedule is weather dependent. 
• July 4 is a  required work day. 
• May 27 and June 19 are not work days. 
• This schedule is subject to change, at the discretion of the Park District. 

Up to five days off may be requested off, if done so by May 27. Time off requests will be considered in the order they are received. Exceptions will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. 

APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS 

• Must be at least 18 to apply. 
• Must have reliable transportation.  
• Must have proven leadership/supervisory experience.   
• Must have a strong interest in working with children and being outdoors 
• Must be insurable by Park District to operate vehicles.  

JOB DESCRIPTION 

SUMMARY  

Temporary Naturalists plan and carry out public nature programs, camp programs, and lead four weeks of Adventure Camp. Public programs are for all ages and campers are 10-15 years old.  Our goal is to make amazing lifelong camp memories for all campers.  

SPECIFIC DUTIES & EXPECTATIONS  

Administrative   

• Maintain accurate program records.    
• Submit weekly planning schedule for assigned public programs ahead of time.    
• Coordinate Adventure Camp paperwork and participants.    

Programming     

• Plan and carry out various public programs throughout the summer.   
• Assist with Nature Day Camp if the need arises.    
• Plan and carryout special programming at Recreation Day Camps and Nature Day Camps as requested.  
• Carry out programs requested by other agencies.   
• Coordinate and carry out Adventure Camp. Including leading two groups of 10 campers with additional staff.   
• Demonstrate, lead and teach activities to program participants.   
• Serve as an outdoor education resource person for staff.   
• Research ideas for new program activities.    
• Teach a sense of care for the natural environment through proper actions and activities.    
• Ability to work a varied schedule including evenings and weekends in addition to Adventure Camp weeks.  

• Make recommendations for program and process improvement.      
  

GENERAL DUTIES & EXPECTATIONS  

• Attend all staff training sessions including CPR and First Aid Certification.    
• Ensure the safety of all campers by maintaining a safe, clean and controlled area.   
• Educate all park users on park rules and regulations.    
• By setting an example, encourage proper use of parks and park equipment.   
  
• Perform basic first aid as necessary.    
• Other duties as assigned   

JOB FIT  

• Must work many evenings and weekends. 
• Staff must be able and prepared to work much of the shift outdoors