JOBS

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is seeking an Ecologist to join their team. Preferred candidates will have experience in botany, plant ecology, or related natural resources management field. Major responsibilities include gathering information that addresses emerging issues in the vegetation management of priority ecosystems. Successful candidate will conduct plant surveys, categorize plant communities, develop seed lists for restoration projects, and monitor changes in the district’s flora through time. Candidate will participate in ongoing demography studies, field-monitoring, and habitat management of conservation-priority plants such as Eastern Prairie Fringed Orchid, Lakeside Daisy, and more. Candidate will work with agency and non-government partners to collaborate on volunteer recruitment and training for the Plants of Concern Program, genetic rescue of at-risk plant populations, and seed exchange partnerships. Candidate will train staff and volunteers on recognition and classification of plant species. Ideal candidate would have previous experience relaying complex botanical concepts & processes to a general audience.
This position develops and conducts ecological assessments which lead to the planning, expansion, and implementation of management actions for the preservation and protection of wildlife species and their habitat.
Salary range is $61,776 – 67,517 annually. Eligible for performance review and possible pay increases biannually. Benefits: Medical (PPO and HMO plans through Blue Cross Blue Shield), Dental, Vision, Flexible Spending Account for Health and/or Dependent accounts, Life Insurance, Tuition Reimbursement, 12 paid Holidays, 12 paid Vacation Days, 5 paid Personal Days, 8 paid sick days, Pension through Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF), 457 Retirement Plan. Uniforms will be provided, along with an annual safety boot and glasses allowance.
Some responsibilities are the following:

• Develop and perform natural areas restoration and maintenance activities.
• Utilize various methods and equipment to suppress exotic and invasive species while promoting native biodiversity.
• Oversee and implement District ecological programs within areas of expertise providing professional support in fields of responsibility.
• Conduct research, inventory, and specimen/data collection related to ecological assignments and ongoing projects.
• Perform on-site assessments and evaluations of District terrestrial and aquatic resources, including lands, plants, and wildlife.
• Maintain detailed and accurate collection and ecological restoration records, submitting proposals and results as required.
• Make recommendations for species control and enhancement programs on District properties.
• Develop and execute programs, procedures, and management proposals to advance conservation efforts.
• Assist in the preparation of natural resource management plans, environmental impact statements, assessments, and correspondence.
• Review and provide feedback for infrastructure plans and define the environmental effects of proposed development actions.
• Coordinate activities with federal, state, and local agencies to secure permits for ecological programs and conservation projects.
• Assist with prescription burns and perform post-burn evaluations to support habitat management efforts.