The McHenry County Conservation District's mission is to preserve, restore, and manage natural areas and open spaces for their intrinsic value and for the benefit of present and future generations.

Since 1971, McHenry County Conservation District has been protecting natural areas, preserving our water sources, enhancing wildlife habitats and improving outdoor education and recreational opportunities.
 
Today, the District manages over 25,800 acres of diverse open land, including woodlands, prairies, wetlands, ponds, creeks, and rivers. With 35 sites open to the public, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, camping, paddling, fishing, and picnicking. These wide open spaces provide nearly endless opportunities for year-round exploration to over one million visitors.
 
 OVERVIEW:   

Join a leading organization in open space preservation and conservation stewardship! We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Director of Land Preservation and Natural Resources to lead our conservation efforts. This pivotal role involves leading a cross-disciplinary team of scientists, ecologists, data and spatial analysts, land administration managers, and engagement specialists. You will shape and execute our conservation strategies while overseeing land preservation and natural resource management services, programs, and initiatives. The ideal candidate will have extensive conservation knowledge in the Chicago Wilderness Alliance region (NE Illinois/SE Wisconsin, the Great Lakes, and Upper Midwest region), a proven track record in regional conservation planning on a large landscape scale, and the ability to cultivate collaborations and demonstrate inspirational leadership skills. They should also be adept at managing complex, multi-faceted projects, including budget management and fundraising, and be an effective communicator with professional acumen.

 

What are we looking for? A candidate would hold Master’s degree in ecology or natural resources management, public administration, recreation and park administration, or a related field preferred; a minimum of seven (7) years related experience in administering natural resources management programs or projects with five (5) years in a supervisory capacity; alternatively, an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

 

To better understand your skills and accomplishments, we ask candidates who are invited for an interview to bring a portfolio of their work to the interview. This portfolio should include examples of your work, such as conservation/restoration management plans developed, project final reports and documentation of campaigns or initiatives that demonstrate your experience, showcase collaboration and achievements in land preservation and natural resource management.

CLOSING DATE: August 18, 2024

INITIAL INTERVIEWS: August 22-28, 2024
 SECOND ROUND INTERVIEWS: September 5-11, 2024

TENTATIVE DATE OF EMPLOYMENT: November 1, 2024

BENEFITS: As a full-time position, this position is provided with generous benefits including, but not limited to, insurance (medical, dental, vision, and life), holiday pay, paid time off, and IMRF pension.  

 APPLICATION:  Interested applicants will need to furnish a cover letter, resume/curriculum vitae, three (3) letters of recommendation (recently dated) and three (3) professional references at the time of applying for the position. In addition, the applicant is required to answer three (3) questions at the time of completing the application.  Full position description and online application can be located at https://mccdistrict.applicantpro.com/jobs/ . For questions, contact Human Resources at 815-451-8244. 

The position comes with an extremely favorable employee benefits package:

100% Employer Paid HMO BCBS Health Insurance OR Low cost PPO BCBS 

100% Employer Paid Dental Insurance

100% Employer Paid Life Insurance

100% Employer Paid EAP

Wellness Program- up to $425 yearly participation incentive

Free/Discounted Park District Programs

Participation in the IMRF pension fund.


The starting pay rate is $58,000- $68,000 per year. Depending on Qualifications


  

GENERAL PURPOSE:

Manages all parks and grounds maintenance work, special event equipment setup and special projects for those locations. Assists the Director of Parks to create a list of board and director prioritized projects and oversees the completion of general maintenance related projects. Schedules and supervises assignments of work crews.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

· Represents Parks and Maintenance and actively participates as a member of the Parks leadership team.

· Manages the parks budget for Parks and Grounds under the advisement of the Director of Parks. Assists in budget preparation for assigned categories, specifically forecasting parks and grounds improvements/repairs and expense associated, providing feedback and detail to the Director.

· Accountable for the establishment and evaluation of goals for assigned Parks categories. Ensures that goals and objectives are in alignment with District wide goals and objectives.

· Plans, organizes, directs activities for Parks and Grounds team; providing leadership to reporting supervisors ensuring that overall objectives are met on a consistent basis.

· Accountable for creating and maintaining timelines for completion of district parks/grounds projects; mowing, garbage, snow removal and ice making schedules.

· Responsible for estimating project costs during the discussion/consideration phase of planning/forecasting. Expected to compare supplier material costs for best possible pricing.

· Responsible for providing recommendations on repair projects for district parks/playgrounds/recreational facilities; inclusive of inspection, analysis of estimated work and cost estimates.

· Manages work crews inclusive of training, work activities, projects and programs; monitors tasks performed by all assigned crew. Reviews and evaluates work products, methods and procedures and the operations and activities of the crew; recommends improvements and modifications. Troubleshoots problems as they arise.

· Performs hands-on work tasks in the field as needed.

· Communicates daily with the Director of Parks on project timelines and completion status.

· Accountable for record keeping of all safety compliance and incident reporting procedures as well as other operational information in compliance with park district expectations.

· Responsible for the management of employees including hiring, promotion, disciplinary action and termination.

· Manages the purchasing of departmental supplies, services and equipment in accordance with District purchasing policy.

· Works in coordination with all internal departments to reach overall strategic objectives of the District.

· Perform all job tasks within the rules and guidelines of the Park District’s safety program.

· Performs any additional related tasks as required.


Requirements
 · 5 years progressively responsible experience in parks and maintenance field.

· Bachelor’s degree in Facilities and Maintenance Management, Business Management, Horticulture, or relevant work experience.

· 3+years management experience

· Valid IL Drivers’ license required

· Working knowledge of basic custodial work, carpentry, electrical, plumbing, landscaping, small/large power tools and non-powered tools.

· Working knowledge of grounds maintenance equipment (large/small), preventative maintenance procedures and accident prevention in operation of all district equipment and vehicles.

· Ability to develop and maintain working relationships with agencies, business and community as a representative of the park district.

· Experience in managing departmental budgets

· Strong analytical and problem solving skills

· Solid decision making ability

· Must have strong verbal and written communication and presentation skills

· Strong organizational and project management experience

Starting Salary: $22/Hr-$27/Hr

(Starting pay depends on experience and certifications)

If you are looking to work in a challenging, yet rewarding environment, the Manhattan Park District is for you! The Manhattan Park District is looking to better serve the residents of this fast-growing community. With a growth rate of nearly 700 people per year, the Manhattan Park District is looking to expand its offerings and improve current services to those who call Manhattan home.

Under the supervision of the Superintendent of Parks and Planning, is responsible for assisting in the overall maintenance of our parks and facilities! In addition, this position is relied upon to bring experience and knowledge to improve our organization's overall efficiencies and operations while being trusted to perform independently!

The right fit for someone looking to join our team would include a person with: a positive attitude, effective communication skills, an understanding and sensitivity to staff and community needs, a team mentality, passion in what they do, open-mindedness, ability to embrace change, has the drive and pride to do the job to the best of their ability never settling for less, is creative, innovative and is trustworthy.

This team member will operate in a professional and friendly environment, where collaboration and teamwork are appreciated and expected. This position will primarily work outdoors in all weather conditions and will work very closely with all areas of the organization. This team member should also be available for evenings or weekends on occasion and on-site for major activities or events when needed.

We highly value education and we fully support and encourage continuing education! For this position, experience and training are equally, if not more valuable, than an education. Please take a closer look at our Job Description and see if your experience/training fits our requirements!

Are you looking to make a difference in an environment in which you will be both challenged and rewarded? Are you up to the challenge of growing an organization in a community that wants more from their Park District? Do you meet the competencies for this job and want to work hard with a like-minded team? If so, come join us, and let’s make Manhattan better together!

Please go to https://manhattanparks.org/about-us/getinvolved for the full job description and application. Please email your Cover Letter, Resume, and Application to rgainous@manhattanparks.org by August 20, 2024 for consideration.

Incorporated in 1955 and encompassing more than 454 acres, the Mt. Prospect Park District provides outstanding recreational programs, events, parks, facilities and services. With seven primary facilities and 27 neighborhood parks, the Park District is an integral part of a thriving multi-generational community. District open space includes two outdoor pools, biking and walking paths, a dog park and sizable space for outdoor athletic programming. The District covers over 11 square miles and serves a region of over a quarter million residents in Mount Prospect and surrounding communities.

The Mt. Prospect Park District Grounds Department is looking for a full-time, entry-level Grounds Maintenance Laborer to join our Grounds Maintenance Team! The Grounds Maintenance Laborer performs routine maintenance of our parks and facilities under the direction of the Grounds Department Manager. Candidates must be at least 18 years old, hold a valid driver's license and be able to successfully pass a pre-employment physical with a drug screen and a criminal background check. Please follow this link to apply:  https://www.applitrack.com/mppd/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Maintenance

The starting pay rate is $18.00 per hour. Plus, we offer a generous benefit package including medical, dental, short-term disability, long-term disability (IMRF), life insurance, vision-VSP discount program, pension (IMRF), 457 deferred compensation plan, paid time off and park district facility and programming discounts and usage benefits.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
Perform as directed on all jobs assigned by the Grounds Department Manager including but not limited to: 

●        small and large equipment operation

●        maintenance and upkeep of tools and equipment

●        general park maintenance and cleanup

●        landscaping work

●        general labor work

●        building and grounds maintenance

●        athletic field maintenance

●        general assistance to the skilled and semi-skilled maintenance staff

●        any and all duties pertaining to the physical operation of the Park District

Be able to work with other departments under assigned supervision to accomplish special tasks.
Purchase materials as needed with the approval of the Grounds Department Manager.
Participate in the winter snow removal and ice-making operations.
Respond in person, for emergency night and weekend jobs when required by management.
Participate in the Park District’s Safety Training programs.
Be familiar with and abide by Park District policies and procedures.

Attend staff meetings as required.
Maintain a clean and organized work environment.
Be able to occasionally work special events at night and on the weekend.
Additional functions as assigned which may be considered essential.
All other duties as assigned by the Grounds Department Manager, Director of Parks and Planning, and/or the Executive Director.  However, in an emergency, perform all other duties as required.

Must be at least 18 years old. Must be a high school graduate or possess a G.E.D. equivalent or combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
Must possess a valid driver’s license. Must possess or have the ability to obtain a valid Illinois Class C Driver's License within six (6) months of employment and maintain throughout employment with the District. Must have the ability to obtain a Class A CDL, if requested. 
Must possess a basic knowledge in the use of common hand tools and power tools.
Must be able to operate small equipment. Must be able to operate tractors, trucks and other power equipment.
Must be able to work independently and without supervision.
Must be able to communicate effectively with others to allow for the coordination of work, for safety purposes and for emergency situations. 
Must participate in the District safety training program and adhere to District safety procedures.
Must be able to respond in person, for emergency night and weekend jobs when necessary.
Regular and reliable attendance is an essential function of this position. 

Physical Job Qualifications: Must be physically able to frequently ascend/descend more than a 25% grade, lift 50 pounds from a squat position, push/pull, reach, walk; occasionally balance, bend (must be able to bend at waist and touch the floor with fingertips), climb, crawl, crouch, kneel for long periods of time, sit, stoop; and constantly handle objects.

May be exposed to weather conditions including rain, sun, wind, high humidity, and excessive heat and cold. 

Due to the needs of the Park District, evening and weekend hours may be required. Your work schedule may vary and your workweek may exceed regular hours at times. 

Nothing contained herein shall preclude or limit the Park District from changing this written job description through addition, deletion or modification of essential job duties.

The Mt. Prospect Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Title:                      Park Maintenance 2

Department:                  Parks & Facilities Maintenance

Reports To:                  Park Operations Manager

FLSA Status:                Non-Exempt

 

Under the supervision of the Park Operations Manager, the Park Maintenance 2 staff shall complete their assigned duties at higher level and offer suggestions of better way to accomplish jobs, and keep in mind the best interests of the Glencoe Park District and of fellow employees. The Parks Maintenance 2 staff member shall be “self-starters”, they shall complete tasks effectively, and with higher attention to detail. This position also entails a larger amount of working time unsupervised. 

 

This is an hourly position and hours will be primarily from 7:00 am to 3:30 pm, with a half-hour break for lunch, Monday through Friday. Weekly schedule will change based on work-related or seasonal needs, which will include nights and weekends as requested, typically at least one weekend a month.

 

During designated periods when the employee is “on call,” it is viewed as essential to the successful performance of the requirements of the positions, that the employee be readily accessible by their assigned work phone. Readily accessible means that the individual performing the duties of the position be able to respond to a request or need for their physical presence at a Glencoe Park District facility within 60 minutes from their place of residence.

 

Compensation will be established based on evaluation, experience, and recommendation of the Director of Parks/Maintenance or Executive Director.

 

A high school degree/GED is required with 3 to 5 years of working experience in grounds maintenance or related field. Must have the following certifications/licenses: Pesticide Applicator’s License (Turf, Right of Way, Ornamental), AED/CPR Certification within six months after hire.  Must possess a valid Illinois Class D Driver’s License at time of hire. Trade-specific Certification is preferred. This position requires a higher level of expertise with tools, equipment, and overall park district knowledge.

 

All employees must pass a criminal background check and drug test, which are paid for by the Glencoe Park District.

 

An intermediate to advanced knowledge of grounds maintenance plus knowledge of hand tools, grounds equipment, and operation of trucks and tractors is required. Specialty knowledge, skill and abilities in turf management, plant identification, sports fields, general landscaping, pesticide application or license, trees, or planting is also required.

Need to understand how to work industrial equipment, including: backhoes, front-end loaders, mowers, ball field drags, chainsaws, snow plows, dump trucks, power saws, drills and landscaping equipment. Must have good interpersonal skills and can focus on solving conflicts, listening to others, maintaining a positive attitude and being receptive to constructive feedback. Must exhibit sound and appropriate judgment, support and explain reasoning for decisions. This position requires more attention to detail with opportunity to assist in some trade specific tasks in parks such as plumbing, carpentry and some electrical.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The considerations described below are representative of those that must be met by an employee performing the essential functions of the position successfully. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable an individual with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

 

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand and walk for extended periods of time. Work requires lifting 50 pounds maximum with frequent lifting and/or carrying of objects weighing up to 25 pounds.

 

To be successful, an individual must be customer service-oriented and be able to deal with patrons with various needs. Work has the potential to deal with angry customers.

While performing the duties of this position, the individual is frequently exposed to outside weather conditions. Works adjacent to deep water. Potential exposure to hazardous chemicals, open electric panels, trenching operations, airborne particulates, welding arcs and high decibel construction equipment. This position will work at elevated heights or perform confined space entry.

Due to the very nature of park district programming, evening, weekend, and some holiday hours are to be expected.

 

The Executive Director and/or a department head might also the direct the employee to perform other assignments not included in this job description. This job description is subject to periodic review and/or revision.

 

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level or work being performed by the park maintenance crew member and are not intended to be a list of all responsibilities, duties, and requirements.