1

Illinois State Parks Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Epic EMR Why this Illinois Community with Chicago Access? * Ideal for outdoor activities-4 State Parks within 40 miles * Sports, Training, & Wellness Complex rivaling anything in the Nation * Public ...

Epic EMR Why this Illinois Community with Chicago Access? * Ideal for outdoor activities-4 State Parks within 40 miles * Sports, Training, & Wellness Complex rivaling anything in the Nation * Public ...

Dermatology

Sterling, IL · On-site

$540K - $700K/yr

Current staff â€" 2 PAs, 1 NP, 1 Part-Time MD Why this Illinois Community with Chicago Access? * Ideal for outdoor activities-4 State Parks within 40 miles * Sports, Training, & Wellness Complex ...

Pediatrics

Sterling, IL · On-site

$530K - $660K/yr

Epic EMR Why this Illinois Community with Chicago Access? * Ideal for outdoor activities-4 State Parks within 40 miles * Sports, Training, & Wellness Complex rivaling anything in the Nation * Public ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Illinois State Parks information

See salary details

$23.5K

$53.7K

$70.5K

How much do illinois state parks jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for illinois state parks in the United States is $53,698.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,500.00 and $60,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Illinois State Parks?

Illinois State Parks are publicly managed natural areas in the state of Illinois that provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, conservation, and education. These parks are operated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and offer amenities such as hiking trails, campgrounds, fishing sites, and picnic areas. Illinois has over 70 state parks, each showcasing unique landscapes, wildlife, and historical features. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, boating, birdwatching, and seasonal events throughout the year. The parks aim to preserve natural habitats while making them accessible for public enjoyment.

What are some common challenges faced by employees working in Illinois State Parks, and how can they be managed?

Employees in Illinois State Parks often encounter challenges such as working outdoors in varying weather conditions, handling large crowds during peak seasons, and responding to emergencies or safety concerns. Adaptability and strong communication skills are essential to effectively manage visitor expectations and ensure safety. Teamwork is crucial, as staff regularly collaborate with rangers, maintenance crews, and administrative personnel to maintain park operations. Being proactive in problem-solving and staying informed about park regulations can help employees navigate these challenges successfully.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Illinois State Park Ranger, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Illinois State Park Ranger, you need knowledge of natural resource management, law enforcement, first aid, and a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with GIS systems, radio communication devices, and certifications in CPR or law enforcement are typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving, and a passion for outdoor education help rangers effectively serve the public and protect park resources. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safety, preserving natural habitats, and providing positive visitor experiences in Illinois State Parks.

What is the difference between Illinois State Parks vs Illinois Park Rangers?

AspectIllinois State ParksIllinois Park Rangers
CredentialsVaries; often includes park management or environmental certificationsTypically requires park ranger certification or related environmental credentials
Work EnvironmentPublic outdoor parks, conservation areas, recreational sitesPatrols parks, enforces rules, assists visitors, maintains safety
Employer & IndustryState government, parks and recreation departmentsState parks, federal agencies, conservation organizations
Common Search/ComparisonVisiting, managing, or working in Illinois State ParksPark safety, enforcement, visitor assistance roles

Illinois State Parks refer to the parks themselves, managed by the state, while Illinois Park Rangers are the personnel responsible for patrolling, enforcing rules, and assisting visitors within these parks. Rangers play a vital role in maintaining safety and preserving park resources, making them a key part of the Illinois State Parks system.

More about Illinois State Parks jobs

What cities are hiring for Illinois State Parks jobs?

Cities with the most Illinois State Parks job openings:

What states have the most Illinois State Parks jobs?

States with the most job openings for Illinois State Parks jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Illinois State Parks jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Illinois State Parks jobs are:

Infographic showing various Illinois State Parks job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,698 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Assistant Professor (OLID)

Southern Illinois University

Carbondale, IL • On-site

$7.5K/mo

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Southern Illinois University rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

581st of 627 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Salary: $7,500.00 Monthly
Location : Carbondale, Illinois
Job Type: Faculty
Job Number: 2600058
Department: School of Education-SIUC
Opening Date: 08/17/2026
Closing Date: 9/16/2026 11:59 PM Central
FLSA:: Exempt
Security/Safety Sensitive:: NA
FTE: 1.0
Description
Southern Illinois University Carbondale's School of Education invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Organizational Learning, Innovation, and Development (OLID) within the School of Education. This is a continuing, nine-month appointment beginning January 2027. The successful candidate will join a collaborative and forward-looking program dedicated to preparing professionals who lead learning, workforce development, and organizational change across diverse contexts.
This position is represented by SIU Carbondale Faculty Association/IEA-NEA. For more information regarding salary and other details please visit: https://laborrelations.siu.edu/labor-contracts/.
Due to the newly established $100,000 fee for H-1B petitions requesting consular processing outside of the U.S., Southern Illinois University is unable to provide H-1B sponsorship at this time for any prospective applicant who is outside of the U.S. and requires consular processing.
Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.
Examples of Duties
The Assistant Professor will contribute to the OLID program through a balanced portfolio of teaching, research, and service, including:
  • Teaching undergraduate and graduate OLID courses in both face-to-face and online formats
  • Advising students and chairing master's committees
  • Co-chairing doctoral committees
  • Developing and sustaining an active research agenda leading to peer-reviewed publications and presentations at local, national, and international venues
  • Providing service to the department, college, university, and professional community
  • Pursuing external funding opportunities (encouraged)
  • Performing other departmental responsibilities as assigned
  • An on-campus presence is required.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
  1. An earned doctorate in human resource development, workforce education, adult learning, or a closely related field.
    • ABD candidates will be considered if all doctoral requirements are completed by August 10, 2026.
    • If official documentation of degree completion is not received by August 10, 2026, the appointment will be made at the rank of Instructor with a nine-month term and a lower salary.
  2. Demonstrated background in workforce education and/or development.

Preferred Qualifications:
  1. Experience teaching college-level courses
  2. Experience teaching online courses
  3. Expertise in instructional technology, computer-based instruction, and/or multimedia-based training in public or private sector settings • Demonstrated potential to develop a strong record of research and scholarly activity
  4. Oral proficiency in English as required by Illinois state law

Required Documents: Submit a letter of application, CV, and three references.
Contact: William Carr,
Southern Illinois University Carbondale is an R1 Opportunity University with a statewide economic impact of $2.7 billion dollars. We offer 200+ undergraduate degrees, minors and specializations, 79 master's degrees, and 40 doctoral degrees. Our main campus is 1,136 acres, with additional acreage in University Farms, Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center, and other facilities. The university is an essential part of the city of Carbondale and an important contributor to the culture of the entire region. While Carbondale includes many of the amenities of urban life, it retains its small-town flavor. Cost of living is considerably lower in the region than similar areas elsewhere, and many employees commute from nearby counties.
The Southern Illinois region is distinct from the rest of the state, boasting considerable natural beauty including the Shawnee National Forest, many state parks, national wildlife areas, and several lakes beloved for recreation. Local foods are readily available in the area, with a variety of eateries and a growing specialized food truck presence. The area is home to the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, an official wine appellation designation. The wineries extend the cultural reach of the community, hosting live music and continual art exhibits. The campus itself is a microcosm of the area, with a lake and forest on campus, as well as traditional collegiate architecture, quad, and residential halls. Students enjoy outdoor study areas as well as specialized computer labs scattered across campus, including in the three million volume Morris Library. To learn about , , and find resources about Carbondale and the Southern Illinois region, visit:
Southern Illinois University Carbondale is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer dedicated to building a community of excellence, equity, and diversity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, order of protection status, genetic information, marital status, disability, pregnancy, sexual orientation including gender identity, unfavorable discharge from the military or status as a protected veteran. The university will comply with all federal and state nondiscrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action laws, orders, and regulations.
University employees may be eligible for a variety of State of Illinois benefits. These benefits are administered through the Illinois Department of Central Management Service (CMS). These benefits include: Health Insurance plans (HMOs, OAPs, QCHP and CDHP), Dental Insurance, Vision Plan, Life Insurance, Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D), Supplemental Long Term Disability (LTD), Flex Spending Accounts, MCAP and DCAP, and 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan.
Eligible employees are required to participate in the State Universities Retirement System (SURS). SURS is the retirement administrator for employees in public higher education in the State of Illinois.
Other benefits available to eligible employees include: Generous paid time-off, 403(b) Supplemental Retirement Plans, and Employee Assistance Program.
SIUC also provides extensive tuition benefits for its employees and their families such as: tuition waiver/application fee waiver for the employee and their dependents, a Legacy tuition rate for children of SIU Alumni, and Civil Service Employee Counsel (CSEC) Education Assistance Program (EAP)
For more information please visit: https://hr.siu.edu/benefits/

What Southern Illinois University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom