Job Description

TITLE: Special Projects Assistant – Natural Areas

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS: Under direct supervision, assists staff members in the research, development, implementation and promotion of Park District special projects. Provides technical support and assistance to staff in the implementation of assigned Natural Areas projects and programs. Performs a variety of entry level duties, including clerical and administrative duties. Performs related duties as required.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES:

• Assists with research, data collection, documentation, and reporting in support of Natural Areas and ecological monitoring projects.

• Performs field work related to Park District Natural Areas programs, including ecological monitoring and data collection activities.

• Collects, records, and summarizes data related to native seed and plug, shrub, and tree establishment and survivorship.

• Collects, verifies, and enters field and program data using established procedures.

• Prepares or assists in the preparation of written reports and summaries.

• Follows through with requests for information by compiling accurate data and preparing or providing responses.

• Compiles and summarizes internal reports and data for staff use.

• Works with various departmental staff members to gather and convey information.

• As directed, attends project meetings as a Park District representative.

• Communicates with staff, community groups, and the general public to support Natural Areas programs and projects.

• Assists with informational materials or outreach activities related to Natural Areas projects, as directed.

• May maintain records and documentation required for program evaluation and accountability. Including budget allocations, itemized costs,and expenditures.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Training and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in any field plus two (2) years of relevant experience, and related college-level coursework or training in ecology, botany, GIS, or field-based monitoring protocols; OR Associate’s degree plus four (4) years of relevant experience; OR High School Diploma or GED plus six (6) years of relevant experience.

Relevant experience means documented, field-based ecological restoration or ecological monitoring work, including associated data collection and documentation.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of basic ecological principles and field-based research or monitoring practices.

• Ability to follow established procedures and protocols for data collection and documentation.

• Ability to research information and prepare clear written or oral reports.

• Ability to communicate effectively with field personnel, community groups, and the general public.

• Ability to accurately record, organize, and maintain records manually or using standard computer applications.

• Ability to use standard computer applications and data entry or mapping tools, as assigned.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience assisting with ecological fieldwork or monitoring projects in the Midwest, including basic plant identification.

• Familiarity with geospatial data collection tools such as ArcGIS Field Maps or similar mobile mapping applications.

• Experience assisting with the preparation of basic technical or summary reports.

• Exposure to data visualization or analysis tools (R Studio).

• Experience with a research, monitoring, ecological, or conservation program.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

This position requires frequent sitting and communication, and regular standing and walking. The employee is occasionally required to use hands to handle or operate objects, tools, or controls, and to reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move items weighing up to 25 pounds.

Work is performed in both office and outdoor field settings. The employee must be able to work in all weather conditions and perform physically demanding field work, including walking over uneven terrain, carrying equipment, and bending or kneeling.

Pay Rate $22.66 per hour

Career Service: Exempt EEO: Para-Professional FLSA: Non-Exempt

Updated: 02/08/2026