Environmental Education Manager

~ At the Forest Preserve District of Kane County our mission is to acquire, hold and maintain lands in Kane County that contribute to the preservation of natural  and historic resources, flora and fauna; and to restore, restock, protect and preserve such lands for the education and pleasure of all its citizens. ~ 

Position Summary

The Forest Preserve District of Kane County’s Community Affairs Department is accepting applications for one (1) Environmental Education Manager.       

This role is responsible for all aspects of environmental education programming for the District including creation, development, planning, implementation, budget and revenue generation; supervision of the Naturalist staff; oversight of Nature Center operations; and coordination with fellow department staff on Nature Center uses.

• Worksite Location: Creek Bend Nature Center, Leroy Oakes Forest Preserve, St. Charles, Illinois; approximately 60 miles west of Chicago. 
• Hours/Schedule: As required  to carry out job assignments and responsibilities.

Essential Position Duties & Functions

Operations:

• Develops and implements District’s environmental education program throughout Kane County — at the Nature Center, at forest preserves, and at sites off District property.
• Oversees and directs the activities of the Naturalists in fulfilling the mission of the Forest Preserve District as well as the mission of the environmental education program: To foster an understanding of ecological concepts and natural systems; to promote awareness of our interrelationship with those systems; and to encourage a personal responsibility to respect and care for the earth.
• Identifies and implements ways to improve and/or generate Nature Center and nature program attendance, revenue, sponsorship, registration and enjoyment by creating fun, unique, interesting and informational environmental education experiences.
• Shares in leading various nature programs, along with District naturalists.
• Manages budget for environmental education program; makes budget requests/suggestions to Director of Community Affairs and monitors expenses/revenues throughout the year.
• Writes and/or provides ideas, text and/or photos as needed for social media, website, interpretive signage, brochures, newsletters, flyers, articles and other District information.
• Promotes the District’s environmental education program and the District as a whole by attending relevant meetings, conferences, workshops and/or special events.
• Works with District staff and independent contractors to prepare grant applications in relation to the Nature Center or environmental education program.
• Coordinates with the Volunteer Coordinator to ensure a broad base of public involvement for appropriate volunteer positions: Nature Center Host, Nature Program Volunteer and Special Event Volunteer.
• Coordinates ways to enhance and support Environmental Education activities with other staff and allied groups, instructors and experts.
• Coordinates educational programs and teacher-training with educational institutions, and coordinates educational programs with various scout and youth groups, from across Kane County.
• Identifies and coordinates any necessary Nature Center building maintenance with Planning & Operations department and/or outside vendors.
• Prepares monthly reports detailing program revenues, expenses, attendance and satisfaction reports.
• Composes quarterly schedules of nature programs and activities for review by the Director of Community Affairs, and then generates text for the District’s quarterly newsletter, The TreeLine.
• Performs the job safely and in compliance with District policies, procedures, work and safety rules, and the Employee Handbook.
• Possesses and maintains a valid and current Illinois Driver’s License free from suspension or revocation during term of employment; must maintain insurability with the District’s fleet insurance carrier.
• Works irregular hours, including weekends, evenings and holidays.
• Performs other duties as assigned or required. 

Staff Supervision:

• Supervises Naturalist, Naturalist Assistant and Seasonal Naturalist; carries out managerial responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws.
• Additional duties and functions may be essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum Age Requirement: 21 years of age.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in biology, geology, environmental science, education or closely related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 6 - 8 years of demonstrated success in environmental education that includes 2 years of management experience; or an equivalent combination of relevant education, experience and training.
• Experience in making effective oral, written and graphic presentations.
• Experience in using computer systems for educational programming, graphics and reports.
• Certifications/Licenses: CPR/1st AID/AED certification within one year of employment.

To Apply

• Please click "Apply on Company Website" below -- as  all candidates must apply online!  
• Application Deadline is May 1, 2019.
• Applications MUST include a professional cover letter.
• Applications without a professional cover letter will not be considered.