Wildlife Interpreter

Forest Preserve District of DuPage County; Glen Ellyn (IL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 58,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

IMRF pension

Tuition Reimbursement

Professional Organization Membership

Health and Dental Insurance (after 1yr

Paid Holidays and Vacation

Life Insurance

Deferred Compensation

Job summary

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County in Glen Ellyn, IL invites applications for a Wildlife Interpreter. You will develop and deliver interpretive programs, support education animals, and engage visitors across the forest preserve system.

The role requires a bachelor’s degree in a related field, strong public speaking skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with staff and volunteers. Schedule includes Tue/Thu/Sat with some evenings and weekends; part-time position with benefits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's level degree or equivalent experience in biology, ecology, or education.
• CPR, AED and First Aid certification within 6 months of hire.
• Illinois Mandated Reporter certification required upon hire.
• Experience with interpretive writing and public outreach is preferred.
• Valid driver's license in good standing.

Responsibilities

• Offer interpretive programming to the public, youth, and school groups.
• Collaborate with staff to develop and deliver meaningful public experiences.
• Serve as a resource for information to the public and outside agencies.
• Train and oversee volunteers to present programs and assist in activities.
• Contribute to district communications, including articles and social media.
• Participate in district-wide initiatives to enhance programs.

Skills

Public speaking

Interpersonal skills

Public education outreach

Research and program development

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, or related field

CPR/First Aid certification

Illinois Mandated Reporter certification

Certified Interpretive Guide (preferred)

Valid driver's license

Job description

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is seeking a Wildlife Interpreter to join our Community Engagement team located in Glen Ellyn, IL. This position is ideal for someone who is passionate about native wildlife, enjoys sharing knowledge with the public, and thrives in a collaborative, hands-on environment. As a key member of our education staff, you'll research, develop, and deliver interpretive programs, support the care and training of non-releasable education animals, and help create meaningful experiences for visitors throughout the forest preserve system.

Starting pay: $26.65 - $27.78

The position includes a comprehensive and generous benefits package featuring:

• Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) pension program
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employer-funded Professional Organization Membership
• Health and Dental Insurance (After 1 year of eligible service)
• Paid Holidays and Vacation
• Life Insurance
• Deferred Compensation options

About Us

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, located twenty (20) miles west of Chicago, IL, is a highly acclaimed government agency that has enhanced the quality of life for residents for over 100 years. We believe in conservation, teamwork, and public service. Our mission is to protect and improve the county's natural areas while providing high-quality educational and recreational experiences for the people who call DuPage home.

Schedule

Schedule is typically Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Some evenings and weekends may be required for programs and special events. Part-time

Key Responsibilities

• Offer interpretive programming to the general public, youth, and school groups.
• Collaborate with other District staff to develop and deliver meaningful public experiences.
• Serve as a resource for information and expertise to the general public and to outside agencies.
• Train and oversee volunteers to present programs and assist in daily activities.
• Collaborate with Community Relations to provide interpretive writing, speaking and promotion of the district and its initiatives newspaper/magazine articles, press releases, radio interviews, social media, exhibits, etc.
• Participate and collaborate in District-wide initiatives, including special committees and teams to enhance new and existing programs and offerings.

Key Qualifications

• Must be 18 years of age or older at the time of hire
• Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, natural history, education, or related field; 1-3 years of related experience, or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
• CPR, AED, and First Aid certification required within 6 months of hire
• Illinois Mandated Reporter certification required upon hire
• Valid driver's license in good standing
• Certified Interpretive Guide through the National Association for Interpretation preferred
• Familiarity with native wildlife and natural history
• Effective public speaking skills and strong verbal/written communication
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with staff, volunteers, and the public
• Knowledge of curriculum development and training design
• Ability to clearly communicate District information and policies

Additional information about the position and job duties can be found in the attached job description.

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is an equal opportunity employer.