Seasonal Conservation Action Facilitator (Full-Time)

Shedd Aquarium•Chicago, IL

2d•$21

About The Position

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 for 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.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in environmental science or other applicable field preferred. Related experience is accepted instead of a degree.
6 Months+ of successful experience with program facilitation, interpretation, community engagement, public outreach, or education, preferably in a non-profit, informal setting. Outdoor education is preferred.
Experience in education or leading environmental/conservation programming.
Experience kayaking and/or canoeing, or a willingness to learn within 1-Month of hire is required.
Awareness of current, local, national, and international conservation issues, with the ability to effectively and clearly communicate them to various audiences.
Highly organized with an attention to detail.
Excellent written communication skills and a talent for planning and tracking data and activities.
Proficient with the Microsoft Office suite.
A love of the outdoors and working with people is necessary.
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.
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 of time.
Must have a valid driver’s license and willingness to drive the company vehicle in the city, if needed.
Must be able to do heavy lifting (up to 50 lbs.).

Nice To Haves

Experience leading water-based programming is a plus.
Experience with community science, outdoor volunteers, and/or stewardship preferred.
Awareness of Chicago region plants, animals, ecology, and restoration practices is a plus.
Experience with customer-relationship management software is a plus.
Advanced wilderness/outdoor training is a plus.
Bilingual, Spanish & English is preferred.
Experience with interpretive programs is a plus.
Demonstrated ability to handle a large workload in a fast-paced, collaborative environment preferred.
Kayak/water-based safety training preferred
CPR and first aid certification preferred.
Wilderness first aid certification is a plus.
National Association for Interpretation Certified Interpretive Guide or Host status is a plus.

Responsibilities

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.
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.