We are happy to pass along this job opportunity, brought to our attention by NRES alumnus Brenda Occhiuzzo.
The Forest Preserves of Cook County, the country’s oldest and largest forest preserve, is seeking to fill the position of Resource Operations Manager for the Department of Resource Management. The Department of Resource Management’s primary function is to execute the mission of the Preserves: "…to preserve, protect, restore and restock natural areas throughout the County." The Department is comprised of several sections, including Wildlife, Fisheries, Ecology, Resource Management Crews and Project Management.
The Resource Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing the operations of the Resource Management field crews across our holdings. The five (5) Resource Management crews manage the removal of woody and herbaceous vegetation in response to hazardous tree situations and public work requests. Additionally, they are responsible for inspecting and maintaining over 340 miles of trail, performing a variety of surface repair and drainage work that may impact trail usage. They also utilize a number of ecological management techniques to restore the Preserves’ significant habitats, including herbicide application and prescribed fire.
The Preserves are seeking a highly motivated individual to help lead the Resource Crews in their daily operations. The Resource Operations Manager position will require the ability to effectively oversee the coordination and execution of large-scale land management, vegetation removal, and trail maintenance projects while fostering positive relationships with staff, volunteers, contractors, the public, and other governmental agencies. The Resource Operations Manager will play a key role in the Department and the District overall, ensuring effective use of the District’s resources to promote responsible land management, and ensure the safety of the public. Primary responsibilities of the Resource Operations Manager will include prioritizing and scheduling the daily activities of the five (5) Resource Management crews, supervising upkeep of crew equipment and facilities, and managing crew-led prescribed fire, wildfire suppression, vegetation control, and ecological restoration activities.
The Resource Operations Manager will collaborate with other Forest Preserve staff on matters affecting the Department, drawing on experience in forestry, restoration, and natural resource management. Superior communication and administrative skills are a must, as well as the ability to navigate governmental processes and procedures. The position will have no shortage of challenges, and will require the ability to effectively supervise a large number of staff whilst simultaneously managing multiple projects.
Candidates should demonstrate comprehension of the unique challenges and pressures presented by the urban-wildland interface within Cook County, the second most populous county in the United States.
Salary: $71,602 starting, with annual step increases over the next 5 years the position can be expected to make $86,270 by year five. Additionally, a take home vehicle is provided as after-hours response may be necessary across the county.
Work Location: There is flexibility to work at any of six (6) Resource Management facilities throughout the County.
To apply, please use our online web portal: https://cookcountyil.taleo.net/careersection/400/jobdetail.ftl?job=00118181&lang=en