Ranger Assistant - South
About The Position
The Forest Preserve District of Kane County is seeking a dependable, safety-conscious Ranger Assistant to support the day-to-day operations, maintenance, and visitor services of District preserves. Under the direction of the Operations Manager, the role performs varied work to protect, preserve, operate, and maintain District property, including open spaces, trails, facilities, grounds, and natural resources. The Ranger Assistant also assists preserve users, responds to emergencies, supports special events and campground operations, and serves as a lead worker for summer seasonal staff. The position involves travel between preserves and facilities, operation of District vehicles and specialized equipment, and responding to emergency callouts. Work is outdoors in varying and potentially extreme weather conditions, involves frequent physical activity and public interaction, and may include irregular hours. The regular schedule is 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., 40 hours per week, with weekends, evenings, and holidays periodically required. This is a full-time, non-exempt position with an hourly range of $21.71–$28.49 and a starting rate of $21.71. The position is eligible for the District’s full-time benefits package. Required licenses and certifications must be obtained and maintained within one year of employment.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED equivalent.
- At least 18 years of age.
- Valid Illinois driver’s license.
- Ability to safely operate maintenance and construction equipment, including tractors, mowers, chainsaws, skid steers, chippers, stump grinders, dump trucks, backhoes, front-end loaders, trailers, and other landscaping, construction, and maintenance equipment.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying and potentially extreme weather conditions, perform frequent physical activity, interact with the public, and work irregular hours including weekends, evenings, and holidays.
- Obtain and maintain CPR/First Aid/AED, CDL Class A, Pesticide Operator, and S-130/S-190 prescribed burn or equivalent certifications within one year of employment.
- Strong communication, teamwork, organization, problem-solving, reliability, and safety skills.
Nice To Haves
- One year of experience in landscaping, natural resources, recreation, or a closely related field.
- Experience operating maintenance and construction equipment.
- Equivalent combination of relevant education, experience, and training.
Responsibilities
- Support day-to-day operations, maintenance, and visitor services at District preserves.
- Protect, preserve, operate, and maintain District property, including open spaces, trails, facilities, grounds, and natural resources.
- Assist preserve users and respond to emergencies and emergency callouts.
- Support special events and campground operations.
- Serve as a lead worker for summer seasonal staff.
- Travel between preserves and facilities and operate District vehicles and specialized equipment.
Benefits
- Eligibility for the District’s full-time benefits package.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Education Level
High school or GED
