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Chicago Nature Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Chicago Nature information

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$18K

$52.9K

$128K

How much do chicago nature jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for chicago nature in the United States is $52,940.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31,000.00 and $58,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Chicago Nature job?

A Chicago Nature job typically involves working in environmental conservation, park management, wildlife protection, or ecological research within the Chicago area. These roles can be found in organizations such as nature preserves, botanical gardens, conservation nonprofits, or city park services. Responsibilities may include habitat restoration, environmental education, scientific research, or public outreach. Many jobs require a background in biology, environmental science, or a related field, along with a passion for protecting natural spaces in an urban setting.

What are the typical work environments and team structures for Chicago Nature professionals?

Chicago Nature professionals often divide their time between indoor office or lab work and outdoor fieldwork, such as conducting surveys, restoring habitats, or leading educational programs in parks and preserves. Teams are usually multidisciplinary, including ecologists, educators, volunteers, and sometimes government partners who collaborate to achieve conservation or outreach goals. Job responsibilities may involve independent research, but also frequent group projects requiring strong communication and planning skills. The diversity of environments and partnerships offers a dynamic and fulfilling work experience for those passionate about urban nature and conservation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Chicago Nature position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Chicago Nature job, such as a naturalist, educator, or conservation specialist, a background in environmental science, biology, or ecology is essential, often supported by relevant degrees or certifications. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, field research equipment, and data collection tools is commonly required. Effective public speaking, teamwork, and community engagement skills help in leading educational programs and collaborating with local organizations. These qualifications ensure the ability to protect natural habitats, inspire community involvement, and contribute to the region’s environmental sustainability.

What job categories do people searching Chicago Nature jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Chicago Nature jobs are:
Infographic showing various Chicago Nature job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 35% Full Time, 57% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,940 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Urban Green - River Trail Nature Center - Summer 2026 Youth Crew

Career Site

River Forest, IL

$15/hr

Temporary

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Position Summary

The Student Conservation Association (SCA) in partnership w/ the Forest Preserve District of Cook County seek Crew Members for the 2026 Chicago Conservation Leadership Corps Program. Crew Members will spend their first week learning job skills that will prepare them for the program and give them skills that they can use in the future. They then engage in rewarding and valuable physical work outdoors on conservation and restoration projects in the Forest Preserves of Cook County including trail work, invasive species removal and nature center projects in a team with ten other crew members and their adult leaders. Throughout each week time will be devoted to learning about the local ecology and environment. Once a student is hired, they will usually be placed at the forest preserve work site that is closest to their home. Members can meet on-site if they live close to the nature center, or we can provide transportation from a local designated pick-up and drop-off site for members who do not have transportation to the worksite. Sagawau Environmental Learning Center, Little Red School House, Sandridge Nature Center, River Trail Nature Center.

Location

Northbrook, IL

Schedule

June 29, 2026 - July 30, 2026

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Making sure you arrive on time to your selected work location
Assist your Crew Leaders with hands-on service projects over the summer in all weather conditions
Assist your crew in natural habitat restoration and trail maintenance
Properly using hand tools like loppers, bow saws, shovels, rakes, etc.
Participate in all program Environmental Education days
Recording your work hours, and filling out a proper timesheet
Providing feedback, a positive work environment, and motivator for your crew
Follow all program rules and regulations

Marginal Duties

Assist with data and photo collection, program wrap-up & reporting.
Assisting with Nature Center tasks

Required Qualifications

18 years old (15 year old would need a workers permit) enrolled in high school or a 2026 high school graduate.
Willing to work with others as part of a team and be a positive teammate
Willing to work outdoors doing physically strenuous activities in summer heat and conditions
Be able to commit to attend the whole program (all 5 weeks)
Able to attend an Orientation and an in person or virtual Zoom interview
Complete all hiring paperwork from SCA, including the Workers Permit for those who need one
Meet either at the worksite or the designated pick-up and drop-off location

Preferred Qualifications

Local to Chicago and Cook County

Hours

26 per week

Living Accommodations

no living accommodations offered for this position

Compensation

$15.00/hr (26 hours/week)

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.

Personal Vehicle Information

Not needed

Additional Benefits


AmeriCorps: Not Eligible

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.