The Forest Preserve District of Kane County’s Operations Department is accepting applications for one (1) Ranger position with the Operations/South Division.

DATE POSTED: MAY 17, 2023

WORKSITE LOCATION: GRUNWALD FARMS FOREST PRESERVE, ELBURN, ILLINOIS

APPROXIMATELY 60 MILES WEST OF CHICAGO

STARTING SALARY: $43,362 TO 52,034.40 PER YEAR - DOQ

HOURS/SCHEDULE: LIMITED TO 40-HOUR WORKWEEK, INCLUDES WEEKENDS, NIGHTS AND HOLIDAYS.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: OPEN UNTIL FILLED

All candidates must apply on-line at: https://www.applitrack.com/kaneforest/onlineapp/jobpostings/view.asp?internaltransferform.Url

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Operations Manager, performs a wide variety of assigned and self-initiated tasks and projects required to protect, preserve, interpret, operate and maintain District property. Emphasis is placed on the carrying out preserve operations and maintenance for open space and structural facilities, natural resource management projects, and providing visitor services such as: emergency response, ordinance interpretation, preserve information, and maintaining clean, functional facilities. In addition to the Operations Manager, the Ranger may receive direction from Senior Rangers. Acts as a crew leader for Ranger Assistants and Seasonal staff during site projects.

ESSENTIAL POSITION DUTIES & FUNCTIONS

Operations:

• Maintains forest preserve public use areas: mow/repair trails; clean/repair/restock picnic areas, shelters, campgrounds and latrines; empty trash bins and de-litter use areas; repair/paint picnic tables; and remove snow and general maintenance of parking lots and internal preserve roads.

• Represents a positive and professional image to the public; welcomes preserve users and checks-in reservation groups; provides information and refuse bags for litter disposal; monitors groups and users for compliance to District rules and ordinances, interprets when necessary; notifies the Public Safety Department for non-compliance issues.

• Collaborates with the Natural Resources Department on the prescribed burn program and removal of invasive plant species through mechanical (chainsaw, clearing saw) and chemical (herbicide) means.

• Provides assistance with the campground operation and collection of fees.

• Performs general and preventative maintenance on equipment and vehicles.

• Installs preserve boundary, directional and informational signs.

• Provides assistance with the preparation and maintenance of District garden areas.

• Performs room setup for District events.

• Prepares site and provides assistance with District special events as well as special use permits obtained by the public.

• Opens and closes preserve gates as needed.

• Responds to emergency call-outs on a 24-hour, 7-days a week basis.

• Works irregular hours, including weekends, evenings and holidays.

• Possesses and maintains a valid and current Illinois driver’s license free from suspension or revocation during term of employment; must maintain insurability with the District's fleet insurance carrier.

• Attends professional conferences, workshops and seminars as appropriate within budget parameters and with Department Head approval.

• Obtains and maintains all required licenses and certifications and keeps up-to-date on professional trends and developments related to position accountabilities.

• Performs the job safely and in compliance with District policies, procedures, work and safety rules, the Employee Handbook, and applicable laws and regulations.

Administration:

• Establishes positive relationships with community and preserve users.

• Provides input during the budget preparation process.

• Provides constructive input for subordinate personnel during performance evaluation process.

Staff Supervision:

• Acts as a crew leader to Ranger Assistants and Summer Seasonals; carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws.

Additional duties and functions may be essential.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum Age Requirement: 18 years old

• Education: Associates degree in facility management, forestry, natural resources, recreation, or closely related field.

• Experience: Two (2) years in natural resources, recreation, or closely related field; previous experience operating required equipment (see below); or an equivalent combination of relevant education, experience and training.

• Certifications/Licenses: CPR/1st AID/AED, CDL Class A, Pesticide Applicator; S-130 and S-190 Prescribe Burn or equivalent; all licenses/certifications must be obtained and maintained within one year of employment.