Ranger Assistant - South

• Position Type:
  Field Operations & Maintenance/ Ranger Assistant
• Date Posted: 1/26/2026
• Location:
  
  South Operations Shop, Grunwald FP, Elburn, IL
• Closing Date:
  Open until Filled

The Forest Preserve District of Kane County's Field Operations & Maintenance Department is accepting applications for one Ranger Assistant position with the Operations/South Division.

$21.15 PER HOUR

LIMITED TO 40-HOUR WORK WEEK, INCLUDES WEEKENDS, NIGHTS AND HOLIDAYS.

Under direction of the Operations Manager or Operations Senior Staff, performs a wide variety of assigned work required to protect, preserve, interpret, operate and maintain District property. Emphasis is placed on carrying out preserve operations and maintenance for active open space and structural facilities, natural resource management projects, and providing visitor services such as: emergency response, ordinance interpretation, preserve information, and maintaining safe, clean, functional facilities.

Acts as a crew leader for summer seasonal staff.

Operations:

• Mows and maintains District open space areas, bike trails, multi-use trails and roadways; removes fallen trees/branches caused by storm damage or other natural events.
• Ensures proper maintenance of equipment and tools; performs routine inspection and preventative maintenance on assigned equipment.
• Assists Ranger staff as required and assigned: cleans and sanitizes restrooms and rental buildings, replenishes supplies; cleans up spills and picnic shelters.
• Collects and disposes of solid waste and litter from buildings and grounds.
• Performs semi-skilled building and structural maintenance.
• Operates trucks of various sizes and weights; loading, hauling and unloading of various equipment and material.
• Assists the public as needed.
• Operates light to heavy construction and power equipment.
• Performs general and preventative maintenance on equipment and vehicles.
• Installs preserve boundary, directional and informational signs.
• Provides assistance with the preparation and maintenance of District garden areas.
• Provides assistance with the campground operation and collection of fees.
• Performs room setup for District events.
• Prepares site and provides assistance with District special events as well as special use permits obtained by the public.
• Opens and closes preserve gates as needed.
• Responds to emergency call-outs on a 24-hour, 7-days a week basis.
• Works irregular hours including weekends, evenings and holidays.
• Possesses and maintains a valid and current Illinois driver's license free from suspension or revocation during term of employment; must maintain insurability with the District's fleet insurance carrier.
• Attends professional conferences, workshops and seminars as appropriate within budget parameters and with Department Head approval.
• Obtains and maintains all required licenses and certifications and keeps up-to-date on professional trends and developments related to position accountabilities.
• Performs the job safely and in compliance with District policies, procedures, work and safety rules, the Employee Handbook, and applicable laws and regulations.

Administration:

• Establishes positive relationships with community and preserve users.
• Provides input during the budget preparation process.

Staff Supervision:

• Acts as a crew leader to summer seasonals; carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws.
• Additional duties and functions may be essential.

• Minimum Age Requirement: 18 years old
• Education:
  
  High school diploma or GED equivalent
• Experience:
  
  One (1) year in landscaping, natural resources, recreation, or closely related field a plus; previous experience operating required equipment (see below); or an equivalent combination of relevant education, experience and training
• Certifications/Licenses: CPR/1st AID/AED, CDL Class A, Pesticide Operator; S-130 and S-190 Prescribe Burn or equivalent; all licenses/certifications must be obtained and maintained within one year of employment

The hourly rate for this position is $21.15. This is a non-exempt position (eligible…