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Cook County Forest Preserves Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jackson Therapy

Cath Lab Tech - Travel Job

Park Ridge, IL · On-site

$2K - $3K/wk

The city is adjacent to the Des Plaines River and within 10-20 minutes of major green spaces such as Thatcher Woods and the Cook County Forest Preserves for hiking and cycling. Cultural attractions ...

Jackson HealthPros

Cath Lab Tech - Travel Job

Park Ridge, IL · On-site

$2K - $3K/wk

The city is adjacent to the Des Plaines River and within 10-20 minutes of major green spaces such as Thatcher Woods and the Cook County Forest Preserves for hiking and cycling. Cultural attractions ...

Jackson HealthPros

Cath Lab Tech - Travel Job

Park Ridge, IL · On-site

$2K - $3K/wk

The city is adjacent to the Des Plaines River and within 10-20 minutes of major green spaces such as Thatcher Woods and the Cook County Forest Preserves for hiking and cycling. Cultural attractions ...

Unified Women's Healthcare

OB/GYN Physician

Hoffman Estates, IL · On-site

$237K - $256K/yr

... in Cook County, Illinois. Known for its excellent schools, diverse population, and abundant parks and forest preserves, the village offers a high quality of life for residents. Hoffman Estates is ...

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Cook County Forest Preserves information

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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:
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

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

Career Site

River Forest, IL

$15/hr

Temporary

Posted 23 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.

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