Natural Resource Manager / Restoration Ecologist II

Job Description

Job Description

Do you have a passion for restoring and protecting natural landscapes? The Forest Preserve District is looking for a dedicated Natural Resource Manager / Restoration Ecologist II (full-time, 40 hours per week) to help steward our prairies, wetlands, woodlands, and wildlife for future generations.

This rewarding full-time position blends leadership with hands-on fieldwork and offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact across all Forest Preserve District management sites. You'll work alongside a skilled team of natural resource professionals while helping guide restoration efforts, support staff and volunteers, and engage the public in environmental education.

What You'll Do

• Play a key role in restoring and managing prairies, wetlands, and forests throughout the District.
• Lead and support Restoration Ecologist I staff, seasonal and part-time employees, interns, AmeriCorps members, and volunteers.
• Coordinate volunteer groups and assist with training Volunteer Land Stewards.
• Participate in prescribed burns, invasive species control, seed collection, planting, and habitat restoration projects.
• Assist with management of Afton and Afton South Prairie Wetland Banks in compliance with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers requirements.
• Prepare monthly natural resource management reports and contribute to long-term land management goals.
• Support public outreach and education programs, including field trips, college partnerships, and summer environmental education camps.
• Work independently and collaboratively with Natural Resource Management and Maintenance teams to ensure safe, effective operations.
• Participate in required safety training and help maintain a safe, clean, and professional work environment.

What We're Looking For

• At least 2 years of experience in natural resource management, ecological restoration, or a related field.
• Bachelor's degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, natural resource restoration, or a related discipline (or equivalent experience).
• Strong working knowledge of Midwest flora and fauna.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting up to 50 pounds.
• Experience using power tools, chainsaws, and land management equipment.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work well with staff, volunteers, and the public.

Preferred Qualifications

• Valid Illinois Class "A" Driver's License.
• Illinois Prescribed Fire Burn Certification.
• Illinois Department of Agriculture Pesticide Applicator's License.
• Experience with land management, restoration, and maintenance equipment.
• Knowledge of Illinois native plant and wildlife communities.

Compensation & Benefits

Hourly Pay Range:

• $25.69 - $27.10 (hiring range)
• Up to $29.28 (top of range)

Benefits Include:

• Health insurance through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois (or buyout option)
• Dental and vision insurance
• Term life insurance
• Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) public pension
• Paid time off available after 6 months

Why Join Us?

This is more than a job-it's a chance to protect natural spaces, mentor future conservationists, and serve the community through meaningful environmental work. If you're passionate about land stewardship and ready to grow your career in natural resource management, we encourage you to apply.

I understand that employment may be conditioned upon successfully passing a background check.

I hereby affirm that the information provided on this application and accompanying resume, is true and complete. I understand that any false or misleading representations of omissions on the application or during the hiring process may disqualify me from further consideration for employment and may result in discharge even if discovered at a later date.

I hereby authorize DeKalb County Government to conduct or participate in an investigation of personal background, work history, licensure, and police record as may be necessary to verify the information provided in this application and to determine my fitness to hold the position for which I have applied.

I hereby authorize persons, schools, my current employer (if applicable) and previous employers and other organizations to provide DeKalb County Government with any requested information regarding my application or suitability for employment, and I completely release all such persons or entities from any and all liability related to the provided or use of such information.