The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County provides opportunities for people to connect with nature. We offer to the public 60 forest preserves, 166 miles of trails, 47 miles of rivers and streams, and 6 nature and cultural centers. We have 6 million visitors each year. The District's mission is, to acquire and hold lands containing forests, prairies, wetlands and associated plant communities or lands capable of being restored to such natural conditions for the purpose of protecting and preserving the flora, fauna and scenic beauty for the education, pleasure, and recreation of its citizens. Job Summary This position supports educational programming at district heritage sites while receiving on the job training to complement their education. Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Conduct historical research and compile information about the history of the site and the District.
- Assist in the development of programs and educational materials.
- Deliver interpretive programs and guided tours to visitors of all ages.
- Assist in facilitating historically themed activities for children's day camp groups.
- Collaborate with local schools, community groups, and organizations to expand the reach of educational initiatives.
- Assist in caring for historical artifacts.
- Greet and provide direction to visitors.
- Clean program areas as needed.
- Foster a working environment that promotes safe work habits; Become familiar with and observe all applicable safety rules, policies, and work procedures; Follow all safety rules that pertain to the duties performed and support all aspects of the District's safety and risk management program; Keep work area clean, orderly, and free of hazards; Immediately report all unsafe conditions and incidents.
- Maintain a supportive working environment and demonstrate a desire to exceed the expectations of internal and external customers.
- Perform other duties as required.
Requirements:
- 18 years of age or older at time of hire.
- Pursuing or recently completed a degree in history, education, museum studies, or a related field.
- One season of experience working with children in an educational or recreational program, or one season of museum interpretation, or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
- Must have and maintain Illinois Mandated Reporter certification or obtain upon hire (training provided).
- Must have and maintain CPR, AED, and First Aid Certification or obtain upon hire (training provided).
- Knowledge of research methods using primary and secondary sources.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and familiarity with collections management programs (PastPerfect) preferred.
- Comfortable interacting with youth of varying age ranges.
Schedule: Position starts 6/29/25 and ends around 8/8/25. Work hours are Thursday through Monday or Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM. Pay: $17 - $21 an hour. Work Environment: Indoors and outdoors in all types of weather conditions. Work involves lifting and maneuvering large objects and interacting with farm animals. Location: Kline Creek Farm in West Chicago, IL. Other Information: Work uniform consists of 1890s historical clothing that will be provided by the District. Historically appropriate shoes are required but not provided. The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace built on a foundation of respect, integrity, teamwork, and excellence. Our organization provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.