Visitor Services Specialist (Temporary)

*This is a temporary position that will last 3-6 months depending on business needs.*

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County provides opportunities for people to connect with nature. We offer to the public 60 forest preserves, 166 miles of trails, 47 miles of rivers and streams, and 6 nature and cultural centers. We have 6 million visitors each year.

The district's mission is, "to acquire and hold lands containing forests, prairies, wetlands and associated plant communities or lands capable of being restored to such natural conditions for the purpose of protecting and preserving the flora, fauna and scenic beauty for the education, pleasure, and recreation of its citizens.

Job Summary

This position facilitates visitor use of forest preserve district sites and facilities in compliance with all relevant ordinances, policies, and procedures. Provides excellent customer service in all interactions with the public, staff, and other clients.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Receive and direct or respond to all incoming communications, including in-person, telephone, email, fax, and social media inquiries.
• Ensure visitor uses of preserves and facilities comply with district ordinances, rules, regulations, and applicable fees.
• Process permit applications for facilities and activities, including off-leash dog areas, model craft areas, watercraft, and photography.
• Manage reservations for shelters, campgrounds, and recreation areas, ensuring users understand associated rules and regulations.
• Administer ActiveNet settings to provide accurate location, availability, and amenity information to public and internal users.
• Assist patrons with managing and troubleshooting their ActiveNet accounts.
• Ensure reservations are accompanied by required Certificates of Insurance.
• Process payments (in-person and over the phone) and manage the POS system, including opening, closing, and financial reporting.
• Record and report performance data regarding department activities, preserve usage, and facilities.
• Work with special-use permit applicants to ensure compliant use of district properties and facilities.
• Assist patrons with the purchase of Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) products, ensuring proper recordkeeping and equipment operation.
• Provide reception and switchboard services for the district's headquarters.
• Manage the check-in/out process for district and IDNR education loan boxes.
• Serve as a liaison between the public and staff regarding recreation and education program requests.
• Foster a working environment that promotes safe work habits; Become familiar with and observe all applicable safety rules, policies, and work procedures; Follow all safety rules that pertain to the duties performed and support all aspects of the District's safety and risk management program; Keep work area clean, orderly, and free of hazards; Immediately report all unsafe conditions and incidents.
• Maintain a supportive working environment and demonstrate a desire to exceed the expectations of internal and external customers.
• Perform other duties as required.

Requirements:

• Must be 18 years of age or older at the time of hire.
• High School Diploma/GED; 1 - 3 years of related experience; or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Familiarity with ActiveNet registration systems or similar software preferred.
• Experience with customer service, point-of-sale systems, and financial transactions.
• Experience with providing exceptional customer service and resolving conflicts effectively.
• Skilled in applying and interpreting procedures, rules, and regulations.
• Skilled in managing and prioritizing multiple tasks in a busy environment.
• Familiarity with processing financial transactions accurately using POS systems.
• Demonstrated success in establishing and maintaining productive working relationships.
• Strong communication skills, both verbally and in writing.
• Strong organizational skills to maintain accurate records and data.
• Spanish bilingual preferred.

Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 4:30 pm. This is a temporary position that will last 3-6 months depending on business needs.

Starting Salary: $20.79 - 22.05 per hour.

Benefits: Medical (PPO and HMO plans through Blue Cross Blue Shield), Dental, Vision.

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace built on a foundation of respect, integrity, teamwork, and excellence. Our organization provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

For more information, or to apply now, you must go to the website below. Please DO NOT email your resume to us as we only accept applications through our website.

https://dupageforest.isolvedhire.com/jobs/1426706-472340.html