Job Opportunities at Macon County Conservation District

2026 Audubon Internship

Under direction of the Director of Program Services and in partnership with the Decatur Area Audubon Society (DAAS), the Audubon Intern will develop and present programs on the natural and cultural history of Macon County, assist with Macon County Conservation District (MCCD) summer camps, staff community booths for DAAS, and assist with promoting DAAS.

Deadline: Friday, March 27, 2026 at 5pm
Pay: $15/hour

Terms of position: This position is expected to have a seasonal term of mid-May through August, with an option to extend through mid-November. The position will have a Monday-Friday schedule with some evening and/or weekend hours. The position is up to 38 hours per week for the duration.

To apply: Download an application. Return completed application along with a resume by email or mail to Alysia Callison at the address below.

To inquire with questions, contact:
Alysia Callison, Director of Program Services
Macon County Conservation District
3939 Nearing Lane
Decatur, IL 62521
(217) 423-7708
ACallison@MaconCCD.org

Job Title: Audubon Intern
Department: Program Services
Reports To: Director of Program Services
Position Status: Full-Time/Non-Exempt

Summary: Under direction of the Director of Program Services and in partnership with the Decatur Area Audubon Society (DAAS), the Audubon Intern will develop and present programs on the natural and cultural history of Macon County, assist with Macon County Conservation District (MCCD) summer camps, staff community booths for DAAS, and assist with promoting DAAS.

Hours: This position is expected to have a seasonal term of mid-May through August, with an option to extend through mid-November. The position will have a Monday-Friday schedule with some evening and/or weekend hours. The position is up to 38 hours per week for the duration.

Required Qualifications:

  • Graduation from or current enrollment in a biology, wildlife, ecology, zoology, history, museum, education, or other relevant program at an accredited college or university or community college
  • Must meet a minimum age requirement (21 for bus/van drivers, 18 for all other vehicles), have driving experience, and have a good driving record that meets or exceeds agency standards
  • CPR/AED/First Aid certified or capacity to receive within 3 months of hire (training may be provided)
  • Complete a successful background check and drug screening
  • Problem-solving and communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:

  • If applying as an intern, official internship status is not required but encouraged
  • Experience working with children, whether in a camp, youth program, recreation, or a related field

Key Responsibilities:

  • Present educational nature and history programs both on-site and off-site, including for local libraries, school groups, scout groups, and more. Interpret, explain, and answer questions concerning ecology, history, habitat, flora, fauna, and human interaction with the environment.
  • Develop and lead MCCD’s Extreme Camp with assistance from MCCD staff, including developing itineraries, prepping supplies, driving a passenger van, and communicating with parents.
  • Help staff plan, set up, or remove exhibits.
  • Maintain DAAS informational table and displays.
  • Assist with preparation and staffing of outreach tables at community events.
  • Assist with planning and leading activities for special events.
  • Assist with DAAS publicity and marketing including the creation of flyers, brochures, and other materials.
  • Assist with DAAS social media presence.
  • Write articles for DAAS newsletter.
  • Greet visitors and provide information over the phone or in person.
  • Assist with room reservations, set up, and take down as needed.
  • Maintains satisfactory working relationships with MCCD employees, DAAS members, and the general public.
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties described above.

Marginal Functions:

  • Supervises volunteers who help with nature and history programs.
  • Must be capable of working independently.

Psychological Considerations:

  • Must be capable of working with people of all ages.
  • Must be able to work with wildlife including reptiles and insects.

Physiological Considerations:

  • Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds.
  • Ability to stand, walk, and sit.
  • Physical dexterity and fine motor skills to operate computer and audiovisual equipment.

Environmental Considerations:

  • Exposed to various weather conditions including rain and extreme heat.
  • Indoor environmental considerations include those typical of an office.

Cognitive Considerations:

  • Must be able to understand written and verbal instructions
  • Must be able to solve practical problems
  • Must use good safety awareness and judgment
  • May be required to respond to emergencies

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements.

2026 Intern Interpreter

Under direction of the Director of Program Services, the Intern Interpreter will develop and present programs on the natural and cultural history of Macon County; assist with the planning, development, and facilitation of the District’s History Camp; assists with other District camps as needed; and assists with other duties as assigned.

Deadline: Friday, March 27, 2026 at 5pm
Pay: $16/hour

Terms of position: This position is expected to have a seasonal term of mid-May through mid-August, and will have a Monday-Friday schedule with alternating weekends. The position is up to 40 hours per week for the duration.

To apply: Download an application. Return completed application along with a resume by email or mail to Alysia Callison at the address below.

To inquire with questions, contact:
Alysia Callison, Director of Program Services
Macon County Conservation District
3939 Nearing Lane
Decatur, IL 62521
(217) 423-7708
ACallison@MaconCCD.org

Job Title: Intern Interpreter
Department: Program Services
Reports To: Director of Program Services
Position Status: Full-Time/Non-Exempt

Summary: Under direction of the Director of Program Services, the Intern Interpreter will develop and present programs on the natural and cultural history of Macon County; assist with the planning, development, and facilitation of the District’s History Camp; assists with other District camps as needed; and assists with other duties as assigned. This position is expected to have a seasonal term of mid-May through mid-August, and will have a Monday-Friday schedule with alternating weekends. The position is up to 40 hours per week for the duration.

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5pm with alternating weekends. Evenings may occasionally be required.

Required Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Must meet a minimum age requirement (21 for bus/van drivers, 18 for all other vehicles), have driving experience, and have a good driving record that meets or exceeds agency standards
  • CPR/AED/First Aid certified or capacity to receive within 3 months of hire (training may be provided)
  • Complete a successful background check and drug screening
  • Problem-solving and communication skills
  • Ability to spend majority of time outdoors in varying weather conditions and on uneven terrain

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Graduation from, or current enrollment in a biology, wildlife, ecology, zoology, history, museum, education, or other relevant program at an accredited college or university is preferred, but not required
  • If applying as an intern, official internship status is not required but encouraged

Key Responsibilities:

  • Present educational nature and history programs both on-site and off-site, including for local libraries, school groups, scout groups, and more. Interpret, explain, and answer questions concerning ecology, history, habitat, flora, fauna, and human interaction with the environment.
  • Develop and lead the District’s History Camp alongside the Historic Sites’ Intern, including creating lesson plans, developing materials, prepping supplies, and presenting educational material to campers.
  • Present public tours in period clothing at Homestead Prairie Farm every other weekend during scheduled open houses.
  • Greets visitors and provides information over the phone or in person.
  • Assists with planning and leading activities for special events.
  • Assists with room and pavilion preparations, set up, and take down as needed.
  • Assists with animal care, bird feeding, and window on wildlife display area.
  • Maintains positive working relationships with District employees and the general public.
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties described above.

Marginal Functions:

  • Supervises volunteers who help with nature and history programs.
  • Must be capable of working independently.

Psychological Considerations:

  • Must be capable of working with people of all ages.
  • Must be able to work with wildlife including reptiles and insects.

Physiological Considerations:

  • Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds.
  • Ability to stand, walk, and sit.
  • Physical dexterity and fine motor skills to operate computer and audiovisual equipment.

Environmental Considerations:

  • Exposed to various weather conditions including rain and extreme heat.
  • Indoor environmental considerations include those typical of an office.

Cognitive Considerations:

  • Must be able to understand written and verbal instructions
  • Must be able to solve practical problems
  • Must use good safety awareness and judgment
  • May be required to respond to emergencies

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements.

2026 Lead Summer Camp Counselor

Under direction of the Summer Camp Director, the Lead Summer Camp Counselor assists with coordinating, planning, and leading the Earth Adventures and Adventure Club summer camps for the Macon County Conservation District, including overseeing staff, ensuring the safety of campers, and performing administrative duties to support the camps.

Deadline: Friday, March 27, 2026 at 5pm
Pay: $18/hour

Terms of position: This position has an expected seasonal term of mid-to-late-May through July, and will have a Monday-Friday schedule at up to 40 hours per week. This position is located primarily at Rock Springs Conservation Area with two days off-site each week.

To apply: Download an application. Return completed application along with a resume by email or mail to Alysia Callison at the address below.

To inquire with questions, contact:
Alysia Callison, Director of Program Services
Macon County Conservation District
3939 Nearing Lane
Decatur, IL 62521
(217) 423-7708
ACallison@MaconCCD.org

Job Title: Lead Summer Camp Counselor
Department: Program Services
Reports To: Senior Program Naturalist (Summer Camp Director)
Position Status: Full-Time/Non-Exempt

Summary: Under direction of the Summer Camp Director, the Lead Summer Camp Counselor assists with coordinating, planning, and leading the Earth Adventures and Adventure Club summer camps for the Macon County Conservation District, including overseeing staff, ensuring the safety of campers, and performing administrative duties to support the camps. This position is located primarily at Rock Springs Conservation Area with two days off-site each week.

Hours: This position has an expected seasonal term of mid-to-late-May through July, and will have a Monday-Friday schedule at up to 40 hours per week.

Pay and Benefits: $18/hour

Required Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Must meet a minimum age requirement (21 for bus/van drivers, 18 for all other vehicles), have driving experience, and have a good driving record that meets or exceeds agency standards
  • CPR/AED/First Aid certified or capacity to receive within 3 months of hire (training may be provided)
  • Complete a successful background check and drug screening
  • Strong swimming ability and comfort in and around water
  • Problem-solving and communication skills
  • Ability to spend majority of time outdoors in varying weather conditions and on uneven terrain

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Graduation from, or current enrollment in a biology, wildlife, ecology, zoology, history, museum, education, or other relevant program at an accredited college or university
  • Experience working with children, whether in a camp, youth program, recreation, or a related field
  • Experience supervising others

Key Responsibilities:

  • Work with the Summer Camp Director to coordinate and implement the Earth Adventures and Adventure Club summer camp programs.
  • Prepare and implement educational materials for the program.
  • Lead youth on outdoor and indoor environmental and historical activities following a daily schedule, with the ability to be flexible and adapt as needed.
  • Assist with the supervision and support of camp counselors, and maintain an open line of communication with the Summer Camp Director and Director of Program Services, reporting any and all incidents, accidents, and hazards as soon as possible.
  • Safely transport campers to off-site field trip locations in a passenger van, following all Rules of the Road and District safety and transportation policies and procedures.
  • Conduct yourself in a safe manner and promote a safe work environment, as well as overseeing the safety of counselors, campers, and volunteers.
  • Maintain a high level of dependability, including following instructions, responding to management direction, taking responsibility for own actions, and completing tasks on time.
  • Establish and maintain a professional relationship with campers’ parents, campers, staff, and volunteers.
  • Maintain program records, including participant waivers, attendance logs, and sign in/out sheets.
  • Develop weekly correspondence with camp families, including a weekly email and flyer/schedule.
  • Administer First Aid if necessary, in accordance with the District’s Communicable Disease policy.
  • Perform other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties described above.

Marginal Functions:

  • Supervises volunteers who help with camps.
  • Must be capable of working independently.

  • Occasionally may assist with programs other than summer camp.

Psychological Considerations:

  • Must be capable of working with children and general population in public areas
  • May need to resolve differences between counselors, campers, parents, and/or volunteers.

Physiological Considerations:

  • Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds.
  • Ability to stand, walk, and sit.

Environmental Considerations:

  • Exposed to various weather conditions including rain and extreme heat.
  • May be exposed to insects and other wildlife.
  • Indoor environmental considerations include those typical of an office.

Cognitive Considerations:

  • Must be able to understand written and verbal instructions
  • Must be able to solve practical problems
  • Must use good safety awareness and judgment
  • May be required to respond to emergencies

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements.

2026 Extreme Camp Counselor

Under the direction of the Director of Program Services, the part-time Summer Camp Counselor assists with the planning, development, and implementation of the Extreme Camp program; assists with other District camps as needed; ensures the safety, enjoyment, and general well-being of youth attending District camps and programs; assists with educational programming; and assists with other duties as assigned.

Deadline: Friday, March 27, 2026 at 5pm
Pay: $16/hour

Terms of position: This is a part-time position with an expected seasonal term of mid-May through July, and will have a Monday-Thursday schedule. This position is up to 32 hours per week for the duration.

To apply: Download an application. Return completed application along with a resume by email or mail to Alysia Callison at the address below.

To inquire with questions, contact:
Alysia Callison, Director of Program Services
Macon County Conservation District
3939 Nearing Lane
Decatur, IL 62521
(217) 423-7708
ACallison@MaconCCD.org

Job Title: Extreme Camp Counselor
Department: Program Services
Reports To: Director of Program Services
Position Status: Full-Time/Non-Exempt

Summary: Under the direction of the Director of Program Services, the part-time Summer Camp Counselor assists with the planning, development, and implementation of the Extreme Camp program; assists with other District camps as needed; ensures the safety, enjoyment, and general well-being of youth attending District camps and programs; assists with educational programming; and assists with other duties as assigned.

Hours: May vary week to week, but generally Monday-Thursday, 8:30am – 5pm

Pay and Benefits: $16/hour

Required Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Must meet a minimum age requirement (21 for bus/van drivers, 18 for all other vehicles), have driving experience, and have a good driving record that meets or exceeds agency standards
  • CPR/AED/First Aid certified or capacity to receive within 3 months of hire (training may be provided)
  • Complete a successful background check and drug screening
  • Problem-solving and communication skills
  • Ability to spend majority of time outdoors in varying weather conditions and on uneven terrain

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience working with children, whether in a camp, youth program, recreation, or a related field

Key Responsibilities:

  • Plans, leads, develops, and implements the Extreme Camp program
  • Assists with other District camps, including Earth Adventures, Adventure Club, History Camp, and/or Mini Camp
  • Lead youth on outdoor and indoor environmental and historical activities
  • Maintain responsibility for safety procedures while working with staff, volunteers, and youth involved in the camp program
  • Safely transport campers to off-site field trip locations in a passenger van, following all Rules of the Road and District safety and transportation policies and procedures
  • Establish and maintain a professional relationship with campers’ parents, campers, staff, and volunteers
  • Maintain records of attendance, waivers, and other important information for assigned participants
  • Meet with parents, volunteers, and other staff regarding areas of concern with campers
  • Communicate with parents before each week of camp and as needs arise
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties described above

Marginal Functions:

  • May occasionally assist with programs other than summer camp

Psychological Considerations:

  • Must work around children and general population in public areas

Physiological Considerations:

  • Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds.
  • Must be able to work outdoors in recreational area settings

Environmental Considerations:

  • Exposed to various weather conditions including rain and extreme heat.
  • Indoor environmental considerations include those typical of an office.

Cognitive Considerations:

  • Must be able to understand written and verbal instructions
  • Must use good safety awareness and judgment
  • May be required to respond to emergencies

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements.

2026 Summer Camp Counselor (Three Openings)

Under direction of the Lead Summer Camp Counselor and Summer Camp Director, the Summer Camp Counselor assists with preparing, planning, and implementing the Earth Adventures and Adventure Club summer camps for the Macon County Conservation District, including ensuring the safety of campers and facilitating engaging and educational content.

Deadline: Friday, March 27, 2026 at 5pm
Pay: $16/hour

Terms of position: This position has an expected seasonal term of mid-to-late-May through July, and will have a Monday-Friday schedule at up to 40 hours per week. This position is located primarily at Rock Springs Conservation Area with two days off-site each week.

To apply: Download an application. Return completed application along with a resume by email or mail to Alysia Callison at the address below.

To inquire with questions, contact:
Alysia Callison, Director of Program Services
Macon County Conservation District
3939 Nearing Lane
Decatur, IL 62521
(217) 423-7708
ACallison@MaconCCD.org

Job Title: Summer Camp Counselor
Department: Program Services
Reports To: Director of Program Services
Position Status: Full-Time/Non-Exempt

Summary: Under direction of the Lead Summer Camp Counselor and Summer Camp Director, the Summer Camp Counselor assists with preparing, planning, and implementing the Earth Adventures and Adventure Club summer camps for the Macon County Conservation District, including ensuring the safety of campers and facilitating engaging and educational content. This position is located primarily at Rock Springs Conservation Area with two days off-site each week.

Hours: This position has an expected seasonal term of mid-to-late-May through July, and will have a Monday-Friday schedule at up to 40 hours per week.

Pay and Benefits: $16/hour

Required Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Must meet a minimum age requirement (21 for bus/van drivers, 18 for all other vehicles), have driving experience, and have a good driving record that meets or exceeds agency standards
  • CPR/AED/First Aid certified or capacity to receive within 3 months of hire (training may be provided)
  • Complete a successful background check and drug screening
  • Strong swimming ability and comfort in and around water
  • Problem-solving and communication skills
  • Ability to spend majority of time outdoors in varying weather conditions and on uneven terrain

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Graduation from, or current enrollment in a biology, wildlife, ecology, zoology, history, museum, education, or other relevant program at an accredited college or university
  • Experience working with children, whether in a camp, youth program, recreation, or a related field

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist with preparing educational materials for the program.
  • Assist with leading youth on outdoor and indoor environmental and historical activities.
  • Maintain responsibility for safety procedures while working with staff, volunteers, and youth involved in summer camp.
  • Safely transport campers to off-site field trip locations in a passenger van, following all Rules of the Road and District safety and transportation policies and procedures.
  • Establish and maintain professional relationship with campers’ parents, campers, staff, and volunteers.
  • Assist with maintaining records of attendance for assigned participants.
  • Meet with parents, volunteers, and other staff regarding areas of concern with campers.
  • Review, understand, and follow curriculum for camp program as assigned.
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties described above

Marginal Functions:

  • Supervises volunteers who help with camps.
  • Must be capable of working independently.
  • Occasionally may assist with programs other than summer camp.

Psychological Considerations:

  • Must work around children and general population in public areas

Physiological Considerations:

  • Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds.
  • Ability to stand, walk, and sit.

Environmental Considerations:

  • Exposed to various weather conditions including rain and extreme heat.
  • May be exposed to insects and other wildlife.
  • Indoor environmental considerations include those typical of an office.

Cognitive Considerations:

  • Must be able to understand written and verbal instructions
  • Must be able to solve practical problems
  • Must use good safety awareness and judgment
  • May be required to respond to emergencies

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements.

2026 Historic Sites Intern

Under direction of the Historic Sites Manager, the Historic Sites Intern will develop and present programs on the cultural history of Macon County. This internship is a great opportunity for someone starting a career in the historic sites or museum field. Interns gain varied work experience through a wide range of tasks, and while the core duties remain the same each year, special projects and new priorities make each intern’s experience unique from year to year.

Deadline: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at 12pm
Pay: $16/hour with free housing. Read complete Job Description for more details.

Terms of position: This position is expected to have a seasonal term of mid-May through mid-November, and will have a Monday-Friday schedule with alternating weekends. The position is up to 38 hours per week for the duration. This position is located at Homestead Prairie Farm, a circa 1860 living history house museum, and Rock Springs Nature Center. Both sites are located on the grounds of Rock Springs Conservation Area in Decatur, IL.

To apply: Download an application. Send your completed application along with two writing samples of at least three pages each, a resume, and college transcript(s) by email or mail to Brent Wielt at the address below.

To inquire with questions, contact:
Brent Wielt, Historic Sites Manager
Macon County Conservation District
3939 Nearing Lane
Decatur, IL 62521
(217) 423-7708
BWielt@MaconCCD.org

Job Title: Historic Sites Intern
Department: Program Services
Reports To: Historic Sites Manager
Position Status: Full-Time/Non-Exempt

Summary: Under direction of the Historic Sites Manager, the Historic Sites Intern will develop and present programs on the cultural history of Macon County. This internship is a great opportunity for someone starting a career in the historic sites or museum field. Interns gain varied work experience through a wide range of tasks, and while the core duties remain the same each year, special projects and new priorities make each intern’s experience unique from year to year. This position is expected to have a seasonal term of mid-May through mid-November, and will have a Monday-Friday schedule with alternating weekends. The position is up to 38 hours per week for the duration. This position is located at Homestead Prairie Farm, a circa 1860 living history house museum, and Rock Springs Nature Center. Both sites are located on the grounds of Rock Springs Conservation Area in Decatur, IL.

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm with alternating weekends. Evenings may occasionally be required.

Pay and Benefits: $16/hour. Free housing is offered in a house next to Bois du Sangamon Nature Preserve by Lake Decatur. All utilities are paid by MCCD except internet and phone. Intern earns Paid Time Off (PTO) beginning first day of employment accruing one hour for every 40 hours worked. PTO may be used after 90 days of employment.

Required Qualifications:

  • Graduation from or current enrollment in a history, museum studies, or other relevant program at an accredited college or university
  • Must meet a minimum age requirement (21 for bus/van drivers, 18 for all other vehicles), have driving experience, and have a good driving record that meets or exceeds agency standards
  • CPR/AED/First Aid certified or capacity to receive within 3 months of hire (training may be provided)
  • Complete a successful background check and drug screening
  • Problem-solving and communication skills
  • Ability to spend majority of time outdoors in varying weather conditions and on uneven terrain

Preferred Qualifications:

  • If applying as an intern, official internship status is not required but encouraged
  • Experience working with children, whether in a camp, youth program, recreation, or a related field

Key Responsibilities:

  • Interpretation/Education
    • Assist with third person interpretation at the MCCD’s historic sites, including Homestead Prairie Farm, Bethel School, or other sites as needed.
    • Present public tours in period clothing during regular weekend open houses and events.
    • Present educational history programs both on-site and off-site, including for local libraries, school groups, scout groups, and more. Interpret, explain, and answer questions concerning local history.
  • Children’s Summer Day Camps
    • Develop and lead the District’s History Camp alongside the Intern Interpreter, including creating lesson plans, developing materials, prepping supplies, and presenting educational material to campers.
  • Collections/Exhibits
    • Help staff plan, set up, or remove exhibits at Rock Springs Nature Center.
    • Assist in collections processing, care, research, and inventory.
    • Assist with the recordkeeping of reproduction period clothing worn by staff and volunteers for tours and programs.
  • Research, Marketing, Volunteers, & Administrative
    • Assist with historical research for various projects.
    • Assist with publicity and marketing by writing newsletter articles, press releases, and/or program flyers.
    • Assist with planning and leading activities for special events.
    • Oversee and engage with volunteers during tours and programs.
  • Other
    • Maintain positive working relationships with District employees and the general public.
    • Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties described above.

Marginal Functions:

  • Must be capable of working independently.

Psychological Considerations:

  • Must be capable of working with people of all ages.

Physiological Considerations:

  • Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds.
  • Ability to stand, walk, and sit.
  • Physical dexterity and fine motor skills to operate computer and audiovisual equipment.

Environmental Considerations:

  • Exposed to various weather conditions including rain and extreme heat.
  • Indoor environmental considerations include those typical of an office.

Cognitive Considerations:

  • Must be able to understand written and verbal instructions
  • Must be able to solve practical problems
  • Must use good safety awareness and judgment
  • May be required to respond to emergencies

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements.