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Cook County Forest Preserve Police information

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How much do cook county forest preserve police jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook county forest preserve police in the United States is $16.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Cook County Forest Preserve Police vs Cook County Sheriff's Police?

AspectCook County Forest Preserve PoliceCook County Sheriff's Police
CredentialsPeace officer certification, police academy trainingPeace officer certification, police academy training
Work EnvironmentForest preserves, parks, natural areasCourthouses, county facilities, law enforcement
Employer & IndustryCook County Forest Preserve District, parks and recreationCook County Sheriff's Office, law enforcement

Both roles require peace officer certification and police academy training. The Cook County Forest Preserve Police focus on patrolling parks and natural areas, while the Cook County Sheriff's Police serve in courthouses and county facilities. Their duties, training, and work environments differ, but both are essential law enforcement agencies within Cook County.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cook County Forest Preserve Police Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cook County Forest Preserve Police Officer, you need law enforcement training, a valid state police certification, and a thorough understanding of local, state, and environmental laws. Familiarity with law enforcement tools such as radios, firearms, patrol vehicles, and reporting systems is crucial. Strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to community engagement distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies ensure the safety of visitors, the protection of natural resources, and the effective enforcement of regulations in the forest preserves.

What are Cook County Forest Preserve Police?

The Cook County Forest Preserve Police are a specialized law enforcement agency responsible for protecting the Forest Preserves of Cook County, Illinois. Their duties include enforcing laws, ensuring public safety, and preserving natural resources within the forest preserves. Officers patrol on foot, by vehicle, and occasionally by bike or boat, responding to emergencies, preventing illegal activities, and assisting visitors. They also educate the public about conservation and outdoor safety. The agency works closely with other law enforcement and public safety organizations in the region.

What are some common challenges faced by officers in the Cook County Forest Preserve Police, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Officers in the Cook County Forest Preserve Police often face unique challenges, such as patrolling large natural areas, responding to emergencies in remote locations, and interacting with a diverse public engaged in recreational activities. New hires should be prepared for variable schedules, extensive outdoor work in all weather conditions, and the need for quick decision-making in unpredictable situations. Building strong communication skills and maintaining physical fitness are key to success, as officers frequently collaborate with other law enforcement agencies, park staff, and community organizations.
What cities are hiring for Cook County Forest Preserve Police jobs? Cities with the most Cook County Forest Preserve Police job openings:
What states have the most Cook County Forest Preserve Police jobs? States with the most job openings for Cook County Forest Preserve Police jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cook County Forest Preserve Police jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cook County Forest Preserve Police jobs are:
Cook County Forest Preserve Police jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cook County Forest Preserve Police job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $33,340 per year, or $16 per hour.

Deputy Ranger Police Officer

Lake County Forest Preserve District

Libertyville, IL

$26.90 - $40.41/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Summary of Position The Lake County Forest Preserve District Public Safety Division is dedicated to the protection and safety of Forest Preserve visitors as well as the protection of the natural resources and physical properties contained within the District. Educates general public concerning preservation of land, safety, local laws, District facilities, and rules and regulations. The Deputy Ranger Police Officer enforces the Illinois Compiled Statutes and District Rules and Regulations on District lands.

Provides surveillance (by vehicle, foot, bike or boat), law enforcement support, fire detection, and suppression. Knows and uses the power of arrest or issues a citation, if necessary, but constantly strives for voluntary compliance with statutes and ordinances through education. Responsible for crowd and traffic control at District special events.

Ensures cleanliness of assigned Preserves and facilities used by the public during operational hours when no maintenance personnel are present. Drives a motorized vehicle to travel to different locations. Performs heavy lifting tasks up to 50 pounds.

Qualifications Qualified candidates must have completed the Illinois law enforcement basic training certification, including firearms training, standard first aid, CPR, and be a high school graduate. Must be a US Citizen, at least 21 years old with good moral character. Must possess the ability to understand the role of police officer in the management of recreational areas.

Must possess a valid motor vehicle driver's license. Ability to run, climb, stoop, bend, sit, kneel, reach, and walk up to 3 miles a day. Selected candidates will be required to complete the fitness test, oral interview, psychological test, physical and drug test, and in-depth background investigation.

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