The Forest Preserves of Cook County, the country’s oldest, largest and greatest forest preserve,
is seeking to fill the position of Deputy Director in the Department of Resource Management.
The Department of Resource Management’s primary function is to execute the mission of the
Preserve: “…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 Forest Preserve is in the beginning stages of executing the Next Century Conservation Plan
(NCCP), a long-term plan that was created to ensure the Preserve is a leader in urban
conservation (http://www.nextcenturyconservationplan.org/). The Department of Resource
Management will be responsible for meeting two of the NCCP’s major goals. One of the Plan’s
ambitious goals is to restore 30,000 acres in 25 years to Illinois Natural Areas Inventory
quality. The department is in the final stages of completing the Natural and Cultural Resources
Master Plan to establish a prioritization method to address this goal
(http://fpdcc.com/preserves-and-trails/plans-and-projects/natural-and-cultural-resourcesmaster-
plan/). The second goal is to implement a Conservation Corps that, by 2019, will
contribute at least 250,000 service hours to conservation based activities. The Corps will focus
on building partnerships that provide supportive workforce training for at-risk youth and
young adults.
The Preserve is seeking a highly motivated individual to help lead the Department of Resource
Management in its daily operations, and in addressing the goals established by the NCCP. The
Deputy Director position will require the ability to effectively oversee the planning,
implementation, and execution of large-scale projects and grant partnerships while fostering
positive relationships with staff, volunteers, contractors, the public, and other government
agencies.
The Deputy Director will collaborate with the Director on matters affecting the Department,
drawing on experience in forestry, restoration, and natural resource management. Candidates
should possess a full-range of experience and expertise regarding large-scale natural areas
management and conservation, giving due consideration to the region’s natural heritage, native
plant communities, and wildlife. 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. Superior communication and technological
skills are a must, as well as the ability to navigate governmental processes and procedures.
Additionally, a good sense of humor is key!
If you think you are up to the challenge – apply now by sending your resume to Michelle Gage,
Director of Human Resources, at michelle.gage@cookcountyil.gov!
Salary: $101,711 Work Location: River Forest
Please see attached job description for further details and minimum qualifications.
