TITLE: Seasonal Conservation Action Facilitator 
DEPARTMENT: Conservation Action
REPORTS TO: Conservation Action Coordinator
STATUS: Full-Time/Temp (5 Months)/Non-Exempt
PAY RATE: $21.00/hr.
 
POSITION OVERVIEW: The Seasonal Conservation Action Facilitator, facilitates conservation action programs including Kayak for Conservation, Action Days, plastic pollution outreach, and others as needed. Conservation action programs connect Shedd audiences with opportunities to take action for animals and make a difference in the aquatic world. The facilitator will lead programs (with a co-facilitator or solo as appropriate) safely and with enthusiasm, maintain program equipment and supplies, communicate with program participants and partner organizations, track metrics, and complete other duties to support programs. 

TIME COMMITMENT: The position will last from May to October.

• The primary schedule is Tuesday-Saturday.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.   

• Demonstrate commitment to Shedd’s vision, mission and values.
• Program Facilitation
  • Facilitate and co-lead conservation programs in a clear, engaging, and approachable manner.
  • Instruct community science activities and wildlife monitoring and maintain recorded data.
  • Assist with program registration and communication with participants and partners, both in person and online, as needed.
  • Organize program supplies and equipment.
  • Track metrics for achieving program goals in an organized and timely manner.
  • Support collaborative efforts with other Shedd departments, including but not limited to the Corporate Partnerships, Community Partnerships and Impact, Conservation Research and Learning Programs teams.
  • Represent Shedd’s conservation programs for internal and external audiences, both in the field and at various events.
  • Set up and break down program materials.
  • If needed, drive a Shedd, rental, and/or personal vehicle to program locations.
  • Ensure best practices and safety protocols are followed at all times during programs to ensure fun and safe experience.
• Communications
  • Deliver compelling and relevant information through programming to audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
  • Adhere to a script for Kayak for Conservation program delivery
  • Engage in friendly conversation with people of all different ages and backgrounds.
  • Build expertise on local ecology, local water conservation issues, and other related topics. Share related news on these topics with Shedd teams.
  • Serve as Shedd spokesperson for media and other public appearances as assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS: The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. 

Education: 

• BS degree in environmental science or other applicable field preferred. Related experience is accepted in lieu of a degree. 

Experience:

• 6+ months of successful experience with program facilitation, interpretation, community engagement, public outreach, or education, preferably in a non-profit, informal setting. Preference for applicants with outdoor education experience.
• Experience in education or leading environmental/conservation programming.
• Experience kayaking and/or canoeing a plus. A willingness to learn within 1-month of hire if no previous experience is required.
• Experience leading water-based programming is a plus.
• Experience with community science, outdoor volunteers, and/or stewardship preferred.
• Aware of current, local, national, and international conservation issues, with the ability to effectively communicate them to various audiences.
• Awareness of Chicago region plants, animals, ecology, and restoration practices a plus.
• Experience with customer-relationship management software a plus.
• Certification or experience with interpretive programs is a plus.
• Highly organized with an attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to handle large workload in a fast-paced, collaborative environment preferred.
• Excellent written communication skills and a talent for planning and tracking data and activities.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office suite.

Special Knowledge & Skills:

• A love of the outdoors and working with people.
• Ability to work as a team member.
• Comfortable handling wildlife, including fish and crustaceans.
• Positive attitude and supportive of colleagues in a team-based environment.
• Driven, self-starter.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and remain flexible and positive despite challenges (e.g., weather conditions, changes in group size, etc.)
• Poised, articulate professional with a positive attitude.

Preferred Skills:

• Advanced wilderness/outdoor training a plus.
• Technology experience beyond basic computer skills and willingness to learn new technologies.
• A personal vehicle to travel to/from program sites is preferred but not required.
• Bi-lingual applicants and the ability to deliver programs in 2 or more languages a plus.

Certifications:

• Kayak/water-based safety training preferred
• CPR and first aid certified preferred. Wilderness first aid certification a plus.
• National Association for Interpretation Certified Interpretive Guide or Host status a plus.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be comfortable with kayaking and providing guidance for less experienced paddlers within 1-month of hire (training provided).
• Must be comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions with limited amenities.
• Ability to lift heavy objects (up to 50 lbs), including kayaks
• Must be able to work flexible hours including early mornings, evenings, and Saturdays.
• Must be able to walk/stand/sit for extended periods.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and willingness to drive a company vehicle in the city, if needed.
• Must be able to do heavy lifting (up to 50 lbs.).

BENEFITS WORKING AT SHEDD: We offer competitive compensation packages and opportunities for professional growth within our organization. 

• Accrued Paid Time Off
• 401(k)
• Discounted Parking and Public Transit Subsidies
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Wellness program
• Employee discounts
• Employee Tickets

Reasonable Accommodations: 
Shedd Aquarium is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need reasonable accommodations for any part of the employment process, please email us at jobs@sheddaquarium.org. 

We strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ+ community, veterans and active duty military, parents, individuals with disabilities, and individuals from all cultural backgrounds to apply. Shedd Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team.