Education Program Guide
Company: The Morton Arboretum
Category: Other
Lisle
Type: Part Time
The Morton Arboretum is seeking 2-3 education program guides to join the existing team of staff. Successful candidates in this role will lead students on field trip programs across the arboretum’s expansive ecosystems, connect with teachers and students around science and nature-related content, and assist with virtual and in-classroom programs. You will be working with youth of all ages, to inspire them to care for and conserve trees.
Role: Facilitate nature education programs for schools, scouts, and families by using the Arboretum’s natural landscapes. Help children discover the basic science concepts related to plant and animal life, interrelationships among species, and human influences on the environment, through engaging interpretive techniques and by following education program outlines. The hourly rate is $21.00/hour. This position is also eligible for a competitive benefits package.
Essential Functions:
- Facilitate tours/programs, outreach, and other activities to Preschool – 12th grade students, scout groups, family audiences, and other informal youth groups by following program goals or outlines.
- Present concepts related to the Arboretum’s natural and horticultural areas, special exhibits and events, and plant collections by using engaging interpretive and inquiry-based teaching techniques, both on-site and off-site, in person and virtually. May be offered opportunities to work with specialized audiences to present program content, as opportunities present themselves.
- Guide groups on a variety of Arboretum trails, being alert to weather conditions, students’ level of understanding, and physical capabilities. Follow Arboretum safety guidelines to ensure the group is safe throughout their program or tour.
- Understand and communicate the Arboretum’s mission, vision, strategic plan, programs, and structure in a positive, constructive, and effective manner.
- May serve as a point of contact with teachers and scout leaders for assigned school and scout programs.
- Participate in required training sessions, mentoring assignments, staff meetings, planning sessions, and guide meetings.
- Assist in the daily clean up and set up of programs as needed.
- Demonstrate alignment with the Arboretum’s employee core values.



