Job Title

Crew Leader, Forest Preserve Experience ProgramReports to: Youth and Engagement Corps ManagerOpen until filled | Start Date: June 15, 2026Hourly Rate: $23.50 per hour30 hours paid training, June 15-18 & June 22-25, 20268am - 3pm, Monday-Thursday28 hours per week, June 29 through July 30, 20267:15 am to 2:15 pm, Monday-ThursdayOrganization: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: $3,750,000Summary: Friends of the Forest Preserves seeks Crew Leaders to be part of the Forest Preserve Experience (FPE) leadership team. FPE is a five-week summer program for teens, focused on job skill development, restoration training and work, environmental education, and exposure to the forest preserves and jobs in conservation. For many participants, this program serves as a first job, so Crew Leaders excel in relating to and guiding youth through the program. Successful candidates have strong communication skills, experience leading high school aged students, and a passion for environmental conservation. Responsibilities: Co-supervise, motivate, coordinate, and mentor 12 high school youth (ages 14-19) employed in the FPE program Plan and lead a variety of hands-on ecological conservation and restoration projects (such as invasive species removal and litter pick-up) in forest preserves in Cook CountyLead educational activities as well as team building exercises and gamesDemonstrate safe tool usage and ensure safety procedures are followedTeach basic invasive plant identification to crew membersEvaluate and document crew attendance, work activities, and performancePositively represent Friends of the Forest Preserves at work site and while participating in recreational activities Required Qualifications:21 years or older Ability to arrive at forest preserve locations and community colleges in south suburbs of Cook County on timeMust be able to attend mandatory training June 15 - June 25 in addition to being able to serve entire length of programExperience working with diverse groups of youth and strong interest in working with and mentoring youthAbility to foster strong work habits, environmental ethics, leadership, and team unityExperience teaching in classroom and/or field setting a plusAbility to maintain an inclusive, safe, productive, and enjoyable work environmentExcellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skillsOutdoor skills, plant identification skills, knowledge of Midwestern ecology is preferred but not required Current basic First Aid and adult CPR certifications or willingness to obtain one (Training provided)Willingness to obtain a Illinois Alternative Herbicide license (Training provided)Ability to lift and move heavy objects (50 lbs.) and work outside in inclement weather and extreme temperaturesTo apply: Submit cover letter, resume, and two references via the Friends' website at. Incomplete applications may not be considered. PleaseNO 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.