Ecology Center Program Instructor II

About the role

This position assists in the planning, development and facilitating of environmental education programs at the Evanston Ecology Center. Programs may include special events, school field trips, scout groups, canoe trips, summer camps, mini-camps and youth and adult programming, and other environmental education programs.

Responsibilities

• Leads, develops, plans and instructs participants in various activities.
• Classes are located at the three Ecology Center sites as well as at various parks, natural areas, community centers, and schools.
• Develop and prepare class materials and lesson plans that will foster a participant’s knowledge of the environment and natural world.
• Provide pre and post class/ camp organization, including taking attendance, and set-up and take down of equipment.
• Recommend future course offerings and the purchase of necessary supplies.
• Provide animal care including feeding, cleaning and recommending supplies and food for ordering, as needed.
• Assists with the development and facilitation of the Farmette and corresponding programs; including, maintaining, weeding, watering, ordering supplies, planting, as well as working with the Program Coordinator in the development and facilitation of garden education programming.
• Attend staff meetings, as required.

Requirements

• Canoeing experience preferred.
• Encourage and demonstrate safe work habits through use of established safety program guidelines.
• Complete necessary forms for accidents and incidents.
• Maintain CPR and AED certification.
• Adhere to and enforce staff compliance with organizational policies, procedures and the strategic plan.
• Represent Ecology Center positively and ethically to patrons, guests and staff.
• Develop and maintain effective internal and external oral and written communications.
• Be at work station, ready for center defined duties at required times.
• Be available for overtime when requested.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or actively seeking a Bachelors degree in Biology, environmental education, outdoor education or related field preferred.
• 2-3 years experience developing and leading education programs preferred.

Skills

• Good oral and written communication skills.
• Good external and internal customer service skills.
• Good planning, organizational and problem solving skills.

Pay

$20.75 per hour

Schedule

Average of 18 hours per week. Program Instructor II's are expected to work 2-3 regular days per week and approximately 2 weekend days per month. Instructor shifts are generally 6-8 hours, with a required 30-minute lunch break, unpaid.