Strike Team Coordinator; Program Coordinator

Strike Team Coordinator (Program Coordinator)

Department: KIBBE LIFE SCIENCE STATION
Location: Macomb, IL (Alice Kibbe Field Station)

Appointment Date: April 1, 2026
Duration: 20 months
Monthly Wage: $3,452 - $3,813

• Conduct and lead crew members on natural areas stewardship projects on IDNR Natural Heritage sites.
• Apply herbicides properly to targeted invasive species.
• Prepare and construct fire breaks.
• Participate as a crew member in conducting prescribed burns and mop‑up operations, and in post‑burn assessments.
• Operate vehicles and use management/prescribed equipment safely.
• Maintain and upkeep equipment.
• Maintain accurate records of management methods, herbicide and commodity usage (e.g., chain oil, fuel), acreage treated, and total hours worked per site.
• Collect, store, and spread seeds.
• Assist in preparing reports on management outcomes of stewardship projects, and in conducting pre‑ and post‑management vegetation surveys.
• Direct crew members and other workers in proper use and techniques related to the duties above.

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, botany, field ecology, wildlife management, or a related field. Alternate degree fields may be considered based on relevant experience.
• At least one (1) year of resource management experience. A master’s degree in a related area may substitute for one (1) year of work experience.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Experience and training in prescribed fire operations.
• One (1) year of supervisory experience in resource management.

• Experience driving 4WD trucks and UTVs.
• Wildland Firefighter Type 2 certification and herbicide applicator certification.
• First Aid/CPR certification.
• Experience using hand tools (council rake, hoe, axe) and 2‑stroke power equipment (chainsaw, weed eater, leaf blower).

• Effective oral and written communication, collaboration, organization, and teamwork skills.
• Ability to perform effectively in outdoor environments, under variable weather conditions, often in remote and uneven terrain, with minimal supervision.
• Attention to detail, sound judgment, and strong conflict‑resolution skills.
• Proficiency with common software such as Microsoft Office.
• Ability to quickly acquire and apply appropriate field and physical skills necessary to carry out the work.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with crew members, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, and station staff.

Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Supplemental Long‑Term Disability, Flexible Spending Accounts, 403(b) and 457(b) retirement plans, and paid time‑off. Other available benefits include an Employee Assistance Program, tuition waiver programs, and local YMCA discounts. For a full list and eligibility details, visit our Benefits page or contact HR‑Benefits.