Program Instructor

Job SummaryUnder the direction of the Heller Nature Center Manager and with direct supervision from Naturalist Program Supervisor, the Program Instructor is responsible for conducting a wide variety of environmental education, interpretive and outdoor recreation programs.Supervisory ResponsibilitiesThis position has no supervisory responsibilities.Essential Job DutiesIncludes, but not limited to the following. Other duties may be assigned. • Conduct environmental education programs for school groups.• Conduct environmental education, interpretive and outdoor recreation programs for home school groups, scout groups, custom groups and the public as needed.• Conduct birthday party programs as needed.• Lead selected birthday hike or program. • Conduct pre-party confirmation calls to provide an introduction to the customer and review party details. • Setup and takedown of party and/or program materials. • Supervise and assist party participants. • Conduct teams course programs as needed.• Conduct early childhood classes as needed.• Assist with management of beehives as needed.• Staff rentals as needed.• Conduct classroom setup and take down.• Assist with special events.• Greet public, answer phones and disseminate information as needed.• Attend staff and planning meetings as required.• Assist in developing curriculum as needed.• Provide site supervision and conduct programs on weekends, holidays and other times as needed.• Enforce rules and regulations put forth by the Nature Center. • Follow emergency action plan (EAP) in the case of emergency. • Perform other Park District-related duties as assigned.Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree (B. A.) from four-year college or university; or one to two years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.Certificates, Licenses, Registrations: American Red Cross CPR/AED certification, Related field certification.Schedule: Hours vary based on seasonal needs and programs. Occasional Weekend and Holiday hours expected. Wage Range: $20.50-$23.00 per hourClassification: Part-time/Non-exemptPhysical Requirements: The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; talk or hear; grasp/manipulate and reach with fingers, hands and arms. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. Working Conditions: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to outside weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.Benefits:• Health & Fitness Membership• Outdoor Pool Membership and Seasonal Beach Access• Program and Facility Discounts on a variety of recreational activities including Golf and Raquet Sports.The Park District of Highland Park is an equal opportunity employer.

Created: 2026-04-02