This position is covered by the collective bargaining agreement between the Chicago Park District and the Service Employees International Union Local 73. Pursuant to the collective bargaining agreement, the District will exhaust internal eligible applicants prior to considering external applicants. The District is assembling a list of qualified candidates for this position that will be considered should the position not be filled with internal eligible applicants.
Title: Program Specialist
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS:
Under supervision, works within a core specialty area and with a large measure of independence to plan, develop, implement and manage programs within the Park District including environmental and educational activities. Performs related duties as required.
EXAMPLES OF DUTIES: Initiates and designs new programs working with parks, communities and outside arts, education or recreation providers to pinpoint areas of interest and need. (External partners may be museums, colleges, arts and recreation organizations, conservation groups). Works to tailor programs to specific park or community needs. Defines specific roles of each external partner (if any) in program development and manages their participations. Oversees projects on a detailed level from conception to completion. Establishes and monitors time lines, costs, budgets and standards for evaluation. At completion, evaluates programs according to these standards. Hires and manages instructional staff and arranges and may participate in any necessary staff training. May help develop and write curriculum. Monitors to make sure that all aspects of programs are implemented as planning. Researches outside funding opportunities, writes grant proposals and undertakes other appropriate fundraising activities. Coordinates the planning and scheduling of environmental education classes and related educational activities for students and adult groups. Oversees the volunteer coordinator's work in recruiting and directing volunteers to teach classes, conduct tours and care for the nature preserve wildlife. Attends meetings with representatives from local schools and colleges to set up environmental education classes for city residents. Meets with community groups to inform them of current activities and future plans. Acts as liaison with environmental and ecological agencies to develop funding sources and preservation activities. Oversees and monitors data collection.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Training and Experience: A Bachelor's Degree in education, recreation/leisure studies, ecology, environmental science, or related discipline in social services, cultural environment or environmental education plus three-five years of project management, programming or nature preservation experience; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Knowledge of education and curriculum design principles.
- Knowledge of nature conservation practices.
- Considerable knowledge of training methods.
- Excellent knowledge of local organizations relevant to specific program areas.
- Knowledge of the structure of government and non-profit agencies.
- Ability to understand and implement elements of community-based programming.
- Ability to evaluate programs based on value to program participants.
- Ability to work cooperatively with community groups and organizations.
- Ability to work cooperatively with community groups and organizations.
- Ability to manage and supervise staff.
- Ability to handle multiple projects.
- Ability to work independently.
- Ability to prepare clear, concise and accurate technical work reports.
- Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
- High level of organization and project management skills.
- Budget preparation and planning skills.
- Computer skills.
- Considerable skill in the application of nature conservation practices and techniques.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: General work area is indoors, in a smoke-free environment, with controlled temperature and fluorescent lighting. Perform tasks that involve use of hands to finger, handle or feel, reaching, walking, bending, stooping, standing, kneeling, climbing, reaching and sitting. This position requires continuous sitting at a desk. Drives motorized vehicle to travel to different locations. Performs lifting tasks up to 25 pounds.
Disclaimer: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Job duties are to be performed with or without reasonable accommodations.
Union: SEIU-Local 73 EEO: Professional FLSA: Exempt
Approved: 12/01/2016