The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County provides opportunities for people to connect with nature. We offer to the public 60 forest preserves, 166 miles of trails, 47 miles of rivers and streams, and 6 nature and cultural centers. We have 6 million visitors each year.The District's mission is, to acquire and hold lands containing forests, prairies, wetlands and associated plant communities or lands capable of being restored to such natural conditions for the purpose of protecting and preserving the flora, fauna and scenic beauty for the education, pleasure, and recreation of its citizens.Job SummaryThis position is responsible for assisting the Trails and Streams staff in the construction, installation, and maintenance of trails and streams in District preserves.Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Perform trail construction and maintenance, including aggregate and turf surface repair, trimming of encroaching vegetation, brush chipping, and maintenance of drainage systems.
- Operate small motorized machinery, light equipment, and hand tools.
- Operate District motor vehicles including pickup trucks.
- Assist with trail patching and repair needs resulting from weather events causing poor trail conditions.
- Assist with the maintenance and restoration of natural areas and general use areas by removing exotic and invasive species.
- Assist with trail construction and the installation of new trail surfaces.
- Assist with construction of storm water drainage systems such as culverts, swales, basins, pipes, excavation, and grading.
- Assist with stream blockage clearing and removal of river debris.
- Foster a working environment that promotes safe work habits; Become familiar with and observe all applicable safety rules, policies, and work procedures; Follow all safety rules that pertain to the duties performed and support all aspects of the District's safety and risk management program; Keep work area clean, orderly, and free of hazards; Immediately report all unsafe conditions and incidents.
- Maintain a supportive working environment and demonstrate a desire to exceed the expectations of internal and external customers.
- Perform other duties as required.
Requirements:
- 18 years of age or older at time of hire.
- Valid Driver's License in good standing.
- Previous experience in grounds maintenance, landscaping, or a related field preferred.
- Able to perform physically demanding tasks in outdoor environments.
- Proficiency with basic grounds maintenance equipment.
- Basic knowledge of native and invasive flora.
- Basic knowledge of conservation practices.
Schedule: Position starts in April/May with an end date in September. Monday through Friday, shifts of 6:45 AM until 2:45 PM.Pay: $17-18/hour.Work Environment: Requires working outdoors. Exposure to all weather conditions, insects and other wildlife, uneven terrain, sharp tools, and motorized equipment. Work involves lifting and maneuvering large objects. Requires operating motor vehicles.Other Information: Safety toe boots and glasses are required and reimbursable. Work t-shirts are provided. Bagged lunch and water are required, as breaks are taken at work sites. Reports to Blackwell Nursery Complex in West Chicago, IL.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.