Program Coordinator – Ecology Center Evanston Parks and Recreation Department

Under the direction of the Conservation and Outdoor Division Manager, this position will be primarily responsible for the development, coordination, and implementation of comprehensive environmental/outdoor recreation programs for the citizens of Evanston. Programs could include, but are not limited to, summer camp, activities, seminars, field trips, special events and facility rentals. The Program Coordinator may act as the supervisor on duty in the absence of the Division Manager.

The position is also responsible for supervising employees, contracted vendors, and volunteers.

• Develops, implements, supervises, coordinates, and evaluates programs, special events, drop in programs, family activities and a variety of workshops and seminars related to environmental education and recreation. Classes are located at the Ecology Center as well as at the various sites throughout the City of Evanston.
• Recruits, interviews, and recommends part-time employees, seasonal employees, and contracted vendors for center programs.
• Trains, supervises, and evaluates employees and volunteer staff in the programs under his/her direction, including assigning specific tasks and works hours accordingly.
• Answers questions from 311, customer phone calls, emails, as well as in-person questions, comments, and concerns.
• Assists with conducting community outreach to local organizations, schools, and affiliate organizations.
• Ensures programs and services are well organized, meet their objective and are safe for all participants.
• Prepares a variety of written program material, reports, and correspondence, maintains files as required in addition to the preparation of financial records such as including budget recommendations, revenue and expense reports, and the preparation of invoices for payments.
• Consults with other Program Coordinators and the Division Manager regularly regarding center activities and programs.
• Manages volunteers for ecology program offerings and special events.
• Assists the Division Manager with developing, executing, implementing, and adhering to the annual program budget, and strategic and operational plan for the department/center.
• Works to develop collaborative partnerships with organizations in the public, non-profit organizations such as the Evanston Environmental Association, Citizen’s Greener Evanston, Evanston Garden Clubs, etc.
• Collaborates with Community Services division staff in the development and continued improvements and modifications of all program offerings at the Ecology Center.
• Prepares and creates displays and exhibits.
• Enforces rules pertaining to the overall health and safety of the participants.
• Reports any unsafe conditions to the Division Manager or submits work order requests to the City’s 311 system.
• Attends training(s) and conferences to enhance personal development and gain more knowledge.
• Attends department and other meetings as required.
• Purchases program supplies on an as needed basis and within budget.
• Ensures that all employees and volunteers under his/her direction are practicing excellent customer service, and that all policies and procedures are properly implemented.