Assistant Crew Leader, Forest Preserve Experience Program (please only apply if you were a previous crew member)

Friends of the Forest Preserves • Chicago, IL

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Friends of the Forest Preserves seeks Assistant Crew Leaders to be part of the Forest Preserve Experience (FPE) leadership team. FPE is a five-week outdoor summer program for high school youth focused on job skill development, ecological 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 Assistant Crew Leaders excel in relating to and guiding youth through the program. Successful candidates have great communication skills, outgoing personalities, and the desire to build their leadership skills.

Requirements

• 18 - 20 years old
• Previous participation in the Forest Preserve Experience as a crew member
• Ability to arrive at meet up locations in south suburbs of Cook County on time
• Ability to attend a mandatory training June 15 - June 25 and the entire length of program (June 29, 2026 - July 30, 2026)
• Experience working with diverse groups of youth and strong interest in working with and mentoring youth
• Commitment to maintaining an inclusive, safe, productive, and enjoyable work environment
• Current Basic First Aid and Adult CPR certifications or willingness to obtain (Training provided)
• Willingness to obtain an Illinois Alternative Herbicide license (Training provided)
• Ability to lift and move heavy objects (50 lbs.) and work outside in inclement weather and extreme temperatures.

Responsibilities

• Support Crew Leaders with supervising, motivating, coordinating, and mentoring 12 high school youth (ages 14-19) employed in the FPE program.
• Co-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 County
• Plan and lead team building exercises and games with Crew Leaders
• Assist in leading educational activities
• Assist Crew Leaders with administrative duties such as tracking attendance and encouraging appropriate crew member engagement and behavior
• Demonstrate safe tool usage and teach basic invasive plant identification to crew members and ensure safety procedures are followed
• Positively represent Friends of the Forest Preserves at work site and while participating in recreational activities
• Other duties as assigned

What This Job Offers

• Education Level: No Education Listed