Recreational Field Assistant

Looking for hands-on experience in parks recreation or natural resource management The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is seeking Recreational Field Assistant to support rangers and staff in maintaining clean safe and welcoming preserves while creating memorable experiences for visitors.

This flexible entry-level role is perfect for individuals who want to learn the ins and outs of park operations recreation programming and natural resource management all while working outdoors and engaging with the public.

Why Join Us

This is more than a seasonal job-its a stepping stone into a career in parks recreation or conservation. Youll gain real-world skills work with a supportive team and play a vital role in keeping preserves safe accessible and enjoyable for all visitors.

What Youll Do

• Engage with visitors by sharing District information ensuring policy compliance and helping create positive public experiences.
• Assist rangers with preserve maintenance inspections and safety.
• Support outdoor recreation programs community events and campground operations.
• Help keep preserves clean and functional by performing light maintenance (trail work facility upkeep dog areas waterways etc.).
• Operate tools and equipment such as mowers blowers log splitters and drills.
• Participate in natural resource projects including invasive species removal wildlife rescues and prescribed burns.
• Contribute to special events with setup parking assistance guest directions and teardown.
• Promote safe work practices and support the Districts risk management programs.

What Youll Need

• Must be 18 years of age or older at the time of hire.
• High School Diploma/GED is required. 1 - 3 years of related experience in parks management or ranger operations or an equivalent combination of education training and experience.
• Valid Drivers License in good standing.
• Must have and maintain CPR AED and First Aid Certification within 6 months of hire.
• Must have and maintain Illinois Mandated Reporter Certification or obtain upon hire.
• Chicago Wilderness Prescribed Burn Training required within 2 years.
• Familiar with native and invasive flora identification.
• Ability to interpret and communicate district information and policies to the general public.
• Familiarity with native wildlife and history.
• Capable of assessing and prioritizing multiple tasks projects and demands efficiently.
• Awareness of occupational hazards and safety precautions including the ability to communicate discrict ordinances.
• Familiarity in operating vehicles or mechanized equipment such as passenger vehicles and watercraft.
• Experienced with the operation of hand tools and power tools.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally in writing and through public speaking.
• Demonstrated success in establishing and maintaining productive working relationships.
• Strong organizational skills to maintain accurate records and data.

Schedule Pay & Benefits

• Various days about 20 hours per week. It can fluctuate based on the season and the districts needs.
• Starting Pay: $19.24 - $21.65 per hour.

Work Setting

• Based out of the Ranger Operations Facility in West Chicago IL.
• Includes field-based work across various forest preserve sites throughout DuPage County.

Apply Today

Follow the link to apply directly and be considered for the position.

Additional information about the position and job duties can be found in the attached job description or on our website.

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace built on a foundation of respect integrity teamwork and excellence. Our organization provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race color religion age sex national origin disability status genetics protected veteran status sexual orientation gender identity or expression or any other characteristic protected by federal state or local laws. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment including recruiting hiring placement promotion termination layoff recall transfer leaves of absence compensation and training.