Jobs and Careers

Program Specialist - Northerly Island

United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 17 Apr 2025

💰 $70,558/yr

About the role

Title: Program Specialist - Northerly Island

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS:

Under supervision, working within a core specialty area and with large measure of independence to plan, develop, implement and manage programs within the Chicago Park District, including environmental and educational activities at Northerly Island Park. Performs related duties as required.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Initiates and designs environmental education programs at Northerly Island Park, working with schools, communities, parks, and arts or recreation providers to create environmental education programs.
Specifically, environmental education day camps and field trips with K-12 youth, and public events and activities for all ages.
Works to tailor programs to specific park, school, or community needs.
Oversees projects on a detailed level from conception to completion.
Establishes and monitors timelines, costs, budgets, and standards for evaluation.
At completion, evaluates programs according to these standards.
Interviews and manages instructional staff and may participate in any necessary staff training.
Develops, writes, and implements environmental education and eco-recreational curriculum.
Monitors to make sure that all aspects of programs are implemented as planned.
Leads programs and environmental education activities directly with the public and youth.
Research outside funding opportunities, writes grant proposals and undertakes other appropriate fundraising activities.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Training and Experience:

A bachelor’s degree in education, ecology, environmental science, or related discipline, plus three years of programming, teaching, or project management experience with a community-based agency in assigned core area.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of environmental education and curriculum design principles; knowledge of nature conservation practices and techniques; ability to understand and implement elements of community based programming; ability to evaluate programs based on value to program participants; ability to work cooperatively with community groups and organizations; ability to manage and supervise staff; ability to handle multiple projects; ability to work independently; ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; high level of organizational and project management skills; budget preparation and planning skills; computer skills; excellent knowledge of local organizations relevant to specific program area; evidence of customer service focus practices.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:
General work area is both indoors and outdoors, in a smoke-free environment, with controlled temperature and fluorescent lighting. Perform tasks that involve use of hands to finger, handle or feel, reaching, walking, bending, stooping, standing, kneeling, climbing, reaching and sitting. This position requires continuous sitting at a desk. Drives motorized vehicle to travel to different locations. Performs lifting tasks up to 25 pounds.

BENEFITS:

As a full-time Chicago Park District employee, eligible employees receive a comprehensive benefits package including:

Competitive Group Insurance benefits including health, life, dental and vision plans.
13-20 days of paid vacation time annually (13 days in first year of employment).
12 days of paid sick time annually which carryover year to year.
4 paid personal days per year.
13 paid holidays per year.
12 weeks of paid parental leave (upon meeting FMLA eligibility).
Pension plan through the Park Employees' and Retirement Board Employees'
Annuity and Benefit Fund, a system covered by the State of Illinois' Reciprocal Act.
Deferred Compensation Program – voluntary supplemental retirement plan.
Optional pre-tax programs – Transit
Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility.
Free Admission to most Chicago museums.