Naturalist, Heller Nature Center

~ Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan, the Park District of Highland Park has a mystique all its own just waiting to be discovered. ~

Founded over a century ago, it is one of the oldest park districts in Illinois. Explore the district’s unique historic parks and find secret gardens, hidden ponds, and a one-of-a-kind beachfront Interpretive Center.

What other place produces Olympic athletes and its own honey, let alone thousands of programs, camps and events that will knock your socks off? Whether you are interested in discovering nature on a spectacular white sand beach or in the quiet woods, trying a new sport or fitness program, testing your creative talents with visual or performing arts class …or just having fun at one of our world class events, there is no reason to wait. Start your Adventure Today!

The Park District serves over 30,000 residents in the City of Highland Park, Illinois and a small portion of the Village of Deerfield and is located approximately 25 miles north of Chicago.

Position Overview

Under the supervision of the Heller Nature Center Manager and with direct supervision from the Naturalist/Program Supervisor, the Naturalist is responsible for conducting a wide variety of environmental education, interpretive and outdoor recreation programs at Heller Nature Center, Rosewood Interpretive Center and other locations in the area; planning and direct Outdoor Adventure Camp, Sand Trackers and Hook, Line and Sinker camp and assist with the management of the center’s apiary and beekeeping program.

• Hours: Hours and schedules may vary depending on seasonal workloads and needs
• Classification: Full-time, non-exempt

Responsibilities

• Teach a variety of programs and assist in developing programs, services and events related but not limited to Heller’s teams course, public programs, early childhood, school and after school programs, special events, scout and custom programs and birthday parties at the Heller Nature Center, Rosewood Beach Interpretive Center and other locations in the area.
• Assist with Heller’s beekeeping program and maintenance of hives.
• Contribute to brochure copy.
• Planning and directing the Sand Trackers, Outdoor Adventure Camp and Girls Outdoor Challenge summer camps.
• Prepare weekly program materials, check registration, correspond to patrons, provide site supervision, extraordinary customer service, distribute information and answer questions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in education, natural science or outdoor recreation with 2 years’ experience in environmental education/interpretation or a related field.
• Demonstrated ability to work enthusiastically with a broad clientele (preschool-adult).
• Skilled at developing innovative programs.
• Must be able to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Must possess general first aid knowledge and have the physical ability to perform tasks in outdoor situations.

Compensation

• Salary: Hiring Range is $41,343-$43,000 DOQ
• Benefits: Excellent benefit package, including health, dental, and pension

~ The Park District of Highland Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer ~