SUMMARY:

Facilitates the Kayak for Conservation program, which aims to connect the public to the Chicago River and other local natural areas through an immersive experience on the water and hands-on stewardship including wildlife and litter monitoring. Two facilitators work together to co-lead kayak programs, maintain program equipment and supplies, communicate with program participants and partner organizations, track metrics, and complete other duties to support programs. This is a seasonal, part-time position that will run from the date of hire through mid-October. The work schedule includes Thursdays (~12-8pm), Fridays (~8:30am-4:30pm) and Saturdays (~8:30am-4:30pm).

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND Demonstrate commitment to Shedd’s vision, mission and values.

• Facilitate and co-lead kayak-based conservation programs on the Chicago River.
• Instruct community science activities and wildlife monitoring in a clear, engaging, and approachable manner.
• 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 and Learning Programs teams.
• Represent Shedd’s Kayak for Conservation programs for internal and external audiences, both on the river and at various events.
• Set-up and breakdown 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.

• Deliver compelling and relevant information through programming to audiences of all ages and backgrounds.  
• Engage in friendly conversation with people of all different ages and backgrounds.
• Build expertise on Chicago River, 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

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

• At least two years of successful experience with program facilitation, community engagement, and 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 required.
• Experience kayaking and/or canoeing required. Experience leading water-based programming a plus.
• Experience with citizen science, outdoor volunteers, and/or stewardship preferred.
• Aware of current, local, national and international conservation issues, with the ability to effectively and clearly 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.
• 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.

• A love of the outdoors and working with people is necessary.
• Ability to work as a team member is a must.
• 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 charisma, a sense of humor, and a positive attitude.

• Must be a confident kayaker and able to provide guidance for less experienced paddlers.

• Must be comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions with minimal 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 of time.
• Must have valid driver’s license and willingness to drive company vehicle in city, if needed.

• Must be able to do heavy lifting (up to 50 lbs.).

• 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.

• 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.

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