Model Railroad Garden Engineer - Seasonal

Position Overview

Perform daily operations and maintenance duties for the Model Railroad Garden at the Chicago Botanic Garden. This is a seasonal part-time position from May through October 2026.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and take down trains for Model Railroad Garden exhibition.
• Welcome and answer questions from the Garden visitors; questions regarding the Model Railroad Garden and general questions about the Chicago Botanic Garden as a whole such as - hours, events, directions to other gardens.
• Ensure exhibition buildings and props are in order each morning and throughout the day.
• Remove debris as necessary from tracks.
• Help keep footpaths and exhibition area clean.
• Monitor exhibition during the day for any breakdowns or derailments throughout the shift, correct the derailment problem, and re-rail the rolling stock as well as watch for any potential problems to report to the operating engineer.
• Address electrical and mechanical problems as they arise whenever possible; communicate with operating or chief engineer about other problems or needed repairs.
• Assist with repairs or other projects as directed.
• Direct the work of volunteer assistant engineers during assigned shift.
• Work in a collaborative manner with all Engineers/Volunteers for a seamless operation.
• Attend annual training and periodic engineers’ meetings.
• Aid in training new staff and volunteers as needed.
• Aid in special Model Railroad Garden events as required.

Qualifications

• One year of experience in customer service, public engagement, or education—or equivalent education.
• Background knowledge and technical expertise to operate G-scale trains, track, and control panels.
• Excellent people skills; the ability to work with the public and in a team environment to create a five-star visitor experience.

Physical Demands

• Must be able to bend, stoop, and lift moderate weight (approximately 15 pounds).
• Position requires standing and walking and some ladder climbing for much of the shift (shift is approximately four to five hours).

Why Apply?

Come work in a setting that is like no other as you support our mission: We cultivate the power of plants to sustain and enrich life. Take the first step toward being one of the employees who make the Garden one of the treasures of the Forest Preserves of Cook County.