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Cook County Forest Preserves Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Audubon

Restoration Intern

Chicago, IL

$19/hr

Restoration Interns play a critical role in the management and restoration of Forest Preserves of Cook County (FPCC) and Chicago Park District (CPD) Natural Areas. Under the direction of Audubon ...

National Audubon Society

Restoration Intern

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19/hr

Restoration Interns play a critical role in the management and restoration of Forest Preserves of Cook County (FPCC) and Chicago Park District (CPD) Natural Areas. Under the direction of Audubon ...

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How much do cook county forest preserves jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for cook county forest preserves 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 are some typical daily responsibilities for employees working in the Cook County Forest Preserves?

Employees in the Cook County Forest Preserves often balance a variety of tasks, including maintaining natural habitats, overseeing recreational areas, and engaging with the public to promote conservation efforts. Daily activities may involve trail upkeep, wildlife monitoring, organizing educational programs, or collaborating with other staff and volunteers on special projects. The work environment is dynamic, frequently outdoors, and requires adaptability to changing weather and visitor needs. Teamwork and clear communication are essential since staff often coordinate with rangers, biologists, and administrative personnel to ensure the preserves run smoothly.

What are Cook County Forest Preserves?

The Cook County Forest Preserves are a network of protected natural areas in Cook County, Illinois, managed by the Forest Preserves of Cook County. They cover over 70,000 acres and include forests, prairies, wetlands, and recreational facilities. The preserves offer opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, wildlife observation, and environmental education. Their mission is to protect and restore natural habitats while providing public access for recreation and learning. The preserves play a vital role in conserving biodiversity and offering green space near Chicago.

What is the difference between Cook County Forest Preserves vs Park Ranger?

AspectCook County Forest PreservesPark Ranger
Primary RoleConserving natural areas, managing parks, and environmental educationPatrolling parks, enforcing rules, assisting visitors, and ensuring safety
Required CredentialsEnvironmental knowledge, sometimes certifications in conservation or forestryCPR/First Aid, law enforcement or park management certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentNatural parks, forests, and outdoor settings within Cook CountyPublic parks, recreation areas, and outdoor environments
Employer & IndustryCook County government, environmental conservationMunicipal or state parks departments, law enforcement agencies

While both roles involve outdoor work and environmental settings, Cook County Forest Preserves focus on conservation and education, whereas Park Rangers primarily enforce rules and assist visitors. Understanding these differences helps job seekers align their skills and interests with the appropriate position.

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

To thrive as a Forest Preserve Worker in Cook County, you need knowledge of grounds maintenance, basic landscaping, and environmental stewardship, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with landscaping tools, light machinery, and sometimes certifications in pesticide application or chainsaw operation is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills help individuals interact with the public and support conservation efforts. These abilities ensure the safety, upkeep, and enjoyment of natural spaces for the community while supporting conservation goals.
What cities are hiring for Cook County Forest Preserves jobs? Cities with the most Cook County Forest Preserves job openings:
What states have the most Cook County Forest Preserves jobs? States with the most job openings for Cook County Forest Preserves jobs include:
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Cook County Forest Preserves jobs near you

Calumet Conservation Corps Crew Member

Friends of the Forest Preserves

South Holland, IL • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Calumet Conservation Corps Crew Member
Reports to: Calumet Conservation Corps Crew Manager
Start date: Open until filled
Locations: Ability to meet at designated meetup location in Calumet region.Pay rate: $18.00 per hour, increasing incrementally to $20.00 per hour over a 2-year period
Schedule: 6:00 am to 3:30 pm, Monday-Thursday. Schedule changes regularly, based on season, weather, and other requirements. Friday and Saturday work is sometimes required.
Organization:
Mission: We unite people to protect, promote, and care for the forest preserves in Cook County.
Our community advocates for the responsible management of the nearly 70,000 acres of forest preserves in Cook County through advocacy, engagement, and stewardship of the land. Some of the best natural areas in Illinois are right here in Cook County, right outside your urban backdoor. Join our team and help us ensure they are here for the next 100 years.
Friends is an organization that gets things done with our members, volunteers, staff, board, and partners. We believe in work-life balance and are here for the marathon, not the sprint (not that we don't sprint on a regular basis).
Operating Budget: $3,750,000
Summary:
Friends of the Forest Preserves seeks a crew member to join our Calumet Conservation Corps Crews, based out of the Calumet region. Conservation Corps members work year-round to remove invasive species and restore native habitats throughout the forest preserves in Cook County. We are seeking a crew member to be part of a program that provides valuable skills and certifications that could lead to a long-term career in natural land management or other environmental jobs.
Responsibilities:
  • Work outdoors on a team of 5 people, removing invasive species using hand and power tools
  • Conduct hands-on activities, such as seed collecting and prescription burning, to restore ecological health to forest preserves
  • Conduct tool maintenance as required
  • Participate in required training sessions

Required qualifications:
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Strong interest in learning about conservation and working outdoors
  • Must be punctual and responsible, with the ability to work with others as a team
  • Ability to lift and move heavy objects (50 lbs.) and work outside in inclement weather and extreme temperatures
  • Ability to obtain a State of Illinois Pesticide Operator License and First Aid/CPR certification ability to secure one within 45 days of hire (training provided)
  • Ability to obtain Forest Preserves of Cook County Feller I Chainsaw Certification, Friends Chainsaw Certification, and Chicago Wilderness Prescription Burn Training Certification (training provided)
  • Some flexibility in work hours, including weekend work, is required
  • Ability to meet at designated meetup location in Calumet region.

Beneficial qualifications:
  • Experience working outdoors as part of a team
  • Volunteer experience

Benefits:
  • 50% cost share of health and dental insurance
  • Short- and long-term disability insurance, and $100,000 of life insurance
  • 403b retirement account with 3% match starting at 1 year of employment
  • 2 weeks of vacation
  • 2 weeks of sick time
  • 11 paid holidays plus 2 additional paid days of winter break

To apply: Submit cover letter, resume, and two references via the Friends' website at https://fotfp.org/who-we-are/jobs/. Incomplete applications may not be considered. Please NO calls, faxes, office visits, or emails.
Friends of the Forest Preserves strongly encourages people of all identities to apply. We strive to include people of every race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, and/or sexual orientation. Friends is an equal opportunity employer, in addition to observing all legal protections of special status, promoting diversity in the conservation community.

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