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Cook County Forest Preserves Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hëda

Optometrist - Lansing, IL

Lansing, IL · On-site

$145 - $155/hr

Situated in Cook County along the Illinois-Indiana border, Lansing offers a welcoming suburban ... Residents enjoy a rich park system featuring the Lansing Woods forest preserves, vibrant community ...

Hëda

Optometrist - Lansing, IL

Lansing, IL

$145K - $155K/yr

Situated in Cook County along the Illinois-Indiana border, Lansing offers a welcoming suburban ... Residents enjoy a rich park system featuring the Lansing Woods forest preserves, vibrant community ...

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All JobsGovernment JobsCook County Forest Preserves Jobs

Cook County Forest Preserves information

See salary details

$8

$16

$22

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

As of Sep 7, 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 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 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 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 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 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:

What job categories do people searching Cook County Forest Preserves jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Cook County Forest Preserves jobs are:

Cook County Forest Preserves jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cook County Forest Preserves job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, and 36% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,340 per year, or $16 per hour.

MANAGER OF VECTOR CONTROL

Cook County Health & Hospitals Systems

Bridgeview, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Leads and coordinates regional mosquito and vector control activities across suburban Cook County.

  • Facilitates collaboration among mosquito abatement districts, local health departments, municipal governments, and other stakeholders to support vector surveillance, integrated mosquito management, and disease prevention.

  • Monitors and analyzes vector surveillance, laboratory testing, environmental monitoring, and epidemiologic data to identify trends and inform control strategies.

Cook County Health rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

 

MANAGER OF VECTOR CONTROL

Location: 10220 S. 76th Ave., Bridgeview, IL 60455

Department: PUBLIC HEALTH

Shift: 8:30 A.M. TO 4:30 P.M.

Salary is commensurate with years of experience indicated at time of application submittal. Experience not disclosed or documented at the time of application will not be considered for initial step placement. 

Job Summary                                                                                                             

The Manager of Vector Control leads Cook County Department of Public Health's (CCDPH) efforts to prevent and control vector-borne diseases and serves as the agency's primary coordinator for regional mosquito and vector control activities across suburban Cook County. The position is responsible for fostering collaboration among mosquito abatement districts, local health departments, municipal governments, the Forest Preserves of Cook County, state agencies, and other stakeholders to support a coordinated, science-based approach to vector surveillance, integrated mosquito management (IMM), and vector-borne disease prevention.  The Manager of Vector Control develops and implements countywide strategies to improve coordination, situational awareness, environmental stewardship, preparedness, and public communication regarding mosquito-borne and other vector-borne disease threats. The position applies environmental health principles and competencies to assess risk, inform policy, advance health equity, and protect public health across suburban Cook County.

 General Administrative Responsibilities

Collective Bargaining

         Review applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements and consult with Labor Relations to generate management proposals

         Participate in collective bargaining negotiations, caucus discussions and working meetings

Discipline

         Document, recommend and effectuate discipline at all levels

         Work closely with labor relations and/or labor counsel to effectuate and enforce applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements

         Initiate, authorize and complete disciplinary action pursuant to CCH system rules, policies, procedures and provision of applicable collective bargaining agreements

Supervision

         Direct and effectuate CCH management policies and practices

         Access and proficiently navigate CCH records system to obtain and review information necessary to execute provisions of applicable collective bargaining agreements

Management

         Contribute to the management of CCH staff and CCH' systemic development and success

         Discuss and develop CCH system policies and procedures

         Consistently use independent judgment to identify operational staffing issues and needs and perform the following functions as necessary; hire, transfer, suspend, layoff, recall, promote, discharge, assign, direct or discipline employees pursuant to applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements

         Work with Labor Relations to discern past practice when necessary

Typical Duties

         Serves as CCDPH's subject matter expert for mosquito and vector control activities throughout suburban Cook County.

         Collaborates with and facilitates regular vector control meetings involving mosquito abatement districts, local health departments, municipal governments, the Forest Preserves of Cook County, and other stakeholders, including internal staff, discussing best practices, emerging threats, preparedness, operational challenges, research findings, coordinated public messaging, surveillance activities, and policy development.

         Leads and monitors mosquito surveillance, laboratory testing, environmental monitoring, and epidemiologic data to identify trends, emerging threats, and opportunities for intervention.

         Develops countywide situational awareness reports, dashboards, maps, and briefings related to vector activity and disease risk.

         Conducts environmental health assessments and apply risk-based decision-making to support vector control strategies and resource allocation.

         Evaluates vector control programs and recommend improvements based on scientific evidence and public health outcomes.

         Uses findings to inform CCDPH vector control coverage areas, contract management, surveillance activities, and service delivery strategies.

         Identifies service gaps, duplication, and opportunities to improve vector control coverage and coordination throughout suburban Cook County.

         Develops and maintains countywide vector control preparedness and response plans.

         Supports grant development, strategic initiatives, and funding opportunities related to vector-borne disease prevention and environmental health.

         Supports spatial analysis and mapping activities to inform surveillance, treatment planning, and program evaluation.

         Promotes adoption of science-based Integrated Mosquito Management (IMM) principles among municipal governments, community stakeholders, and vector control partners.

         Engages municipal governments regarding mosquito management practices and promote evidence-based approaches that align with public health goals.

         Collaborates with mosquito abatement districts and the Forest Preserves of Cook County to support mosquito management strategies that protect public health while preserving ecological resources.

         Promotes consistent application of evidence-based mosquito management frameworks in environmentally sensitive areas.

         Communicates technical and scientific information to elected officials, municipal leaders, public health professionals, community organizations, and residents.

         Fosters community understanding of vector-borne disease prevention, environmental health risks, and mosquito management strategies.

         Develops and manages program work plans, contracts, budgets, grants, and performance measures.

         Prepares reports and recommendations for CCDPH leadership, governing bodies, and external stakeholders.

         Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

         Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university is required (Must provide proof at time of interview) 

         Five (5) years of experience in vector control, environmental health, public health, epidemiology, mosquito abatement, environmental management, and/or a related public health program is required

         One (1) year of supervisory or management experience is required

         Valid driver's license to travel throughout suburban Cook County is required

Preferred Qualifications

         Master's degree in Public Health, Environmental Health, Entomology, Environmental Science, Epidemiology, Public Administration, or a related field

         Experience working with mosquito abatement districts or vector-borne disease prevention programs

         Registered Environmental Health Specialist/Registered Sanitarian (REHS/RS), Certified in Public Health (CPH), Board Certified Entomologist, or similar professional certification.

         Experience with GIS mapping, spatial analysis, environmental surveillance systems, or integrated mosquito management programs

         Experience facilitating coalitions, advisory committees, stakeholder groups, or intergovernmental partnerships

         Experience managing grants, contracts, or federally funded public health programs

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics

         Knowledge of vector-borne diseases, mosquito biology, surveillance systems, and control strategies.

         Knowledge of environmental health principles, integrated mosquito management, public health practice, and emergency preparedness.

         Knowledge of environmental regulations, pesticide stewardship principles, and ecological considerations associated with vector control.

         Excellent verbal, written communication, and interpersonal skills necessary to communicate with all levels of staff and a patient population composed of diverse cultures and age groups

         Strong project management, planning, and organizational skills.

         Strong written and verbal communication skills.

         Ability to analyze environmental, epidemiologic, surveillance, and geographic data.

         Ability to facilitate collaboration among diverse stakeholders with varying interests and priorities.

         Ability to communicate complex scientific information to technical and non-technical audiences.

         Ability to develop policies, procedures, and strategic recommendations.

         Ability to lead regional initiatives and build consensus across organizations.

Physical and Environmental Demands

This position is functioning within a healthcare environment.  The incumbent is responsible for adherence to all hospital and department specific safety requirements.  This includes but is not limited to the following policies and procedures:  complying with Personal Protective Equipment requirements, hand washing and sanitizing practices, complying with department specific engineering and work practice controls and any other work area safety precautions as specified by hospital wide policy and departmental procedures.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of the personnel so classified.

For purposes of the American with Disabilities Act, "Typical Duties" are essential job functions.

VETERAN PREFERENCE PLEASE READ

When applying for employment with the Cook County Health & Hospitals System, preference is given to honorably discharged Veterans who have served in the Armed Forces of the United States for not less than 6 months of continuous service.

To take advantage of this preference a Veteran must:

  • Meet the minimum qualifications for the position.
  • Identify self as a Veteran on the employment application by answering yes to the question by answering yes to the question, "Are you a Military Veteran?"
  • Attach a copy of their DD 214, DD 215 or NGB 22 (Notice of Separation at time of application filing.  Please note:  If you have multiple DD214s, 215s, or NGB 22S, please submit the one with the latest date.  Coast Guard must submit a certified copy of the military separation from either the Department of Transportation (Before 9/11) or the Department of Homeland Security (After 9/11).

Discharge papers must list and Honorable Discharge Status.  Discharge papers not listing an Honorable Discharge Status are not acceptable

OR

A copy of a valid State ID Card or Driver's License which identifies the holder of the ID as a Veteran, may also be attached to the application at time of filing.

If items are not attached, you will not be eligible for Veteran Preference

VETERANS MUST PROVIDE ORIGINAL APPLICABLE DISCHARGE PAPERS OR APPLICABLE STATE ID CARD OR DRIVER'S LICENSE AT TIME OF INTERVIEW.

Benefits Package

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
  • Basic Term Life Insurance
  • Pension Plan
  • Deferred Compensation Program
  • Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick Time
  • You may also qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)  

For further information on our excellent benefits package, please click on the following link: http://www.cookcountyrisk.com/ 

Degrees awarded outside of the United States with the exception of those awarded in one of the United States' territories and Canada must be credentialed by an approved U.S. credential evaluation service belonging to the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or the Association of International Credential Evaluators (AICE).  Original credentialing documents must be presented at time of interview.

 

*Please note all offers of Employment are contingent upon the following conditions: satisfactory professional & employment references, healthcare and criminal background checks, appropriate licensure/certifications and the successful completion of a physical and pre-employment drug screen.

*CCHHS is strictly prohibited from conditioning, basing or knowingly prejudicing or affecting any term or aspect of County employment or hiring upon or because of any political reason or factor.

COOK COUNTY GOVERNMENT IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

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