Program Assistant - Environmental Education

Deadline to apply: August 8, 2025. Position will stay open until filled, if not by then.

Average of 16 hours/week. This will consist of set office hours. Some nights and weekends will be required.

Program Assistants create, lead and organize environmental, outdoor education and community recreation programs for all ages and assist full-time staff with program or event needs.

Goals and Objectives

• Fulfill CWPD mission through program offerings


• Create new environmental, outdoor education and/or recreation programs


• Implement activities and programs are desired or needed by the community


• Execute outreach programming for schools and community groups

Duties and Responsibilities

• Create “fun, healthy and outstanding park experience that connects the community with the outdoors”


• Lead school and community group program requests


• Project professionalism at programs to continue a positive public response toward the Park District


• Research industry trends and apply when appropriate


• Offer new program ideas, and improvements to existing programs


• Obtain/prepare all items necessary for each program


• Coordinate, schedule and lead monthly Archery programs and assist with basic equipment maintenance


• Set-up and clean-up of program locations


• Represent CWPD in a professional manner with residents, customers, etc.


• Make recommendations and purchases of program equipment and supplies


• Follow CWPD brand guidelines

Key Technical Skills and Knowledge Required

• Proven experience working with children


• Knowledge of how to effectively manage and create a program


• Group and program leadership skills


• Communicate with staff, partners, and the public with both spoken and written word.


• Ability to provide appropriate information to a wide range of ages and abilities


• Prepare periodic reports, maintain files and records using standard office software including Microsoft Office Suite


• Maintain First Aid, CPR, AED, and Bloodborne Pathogen certifications


• Willing to Obtain and maintain National Archery in the Schools Basic Archery Instructor Certification within 6 months of employment

Minimum Qualifications

• Be able to lift objects up to 50 lbs.


• Be able to read, write, and follow oral and written instructions


• Pass a pre-employment drug test, physical examination and background check


• Possess either a High School or General Education Diploma

Preferred Qualifications

• 1 to 2 years experience coordinating recreation or outdoor programming


• Undergraduate degree completed or in progress in a related field such as parks and recreation, outdoor education, or education