Ecologist - Plant Ecology

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.

Description

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.

Job Summary

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.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• 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.
• Develop, compose, arrange, and present informational reports and educational materials relating to ecological programs to District Commissioners, staff, and the public.
• Oversee seasonal and technical staff, providing guidance and support.
• Coordinate and oversee the work of consultants and contractors involved in ecological projects.
• Assist supervisor with the selection of staff, schedule, train, provide guidance, and communicate day-to-day work activities, department expectations, and work rules. Relay and provide input regarding work performance, training needs, and growth opportunities while promoting morale.
• 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

• Must be 18 years of age or older at the time of hire.
• Bachelor's Degree in a related field; 1-3 years of experience; or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Master's Degree preferred.
• Valid Driver's License in good standing.
• Illinois Department of Agriculture Pesticide Operator's License within six (6) months of employment. An applicator's license will be required for select positions.
• National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) I-100, S-130, S-190, S-290 within one (1) year of employment, and field component as soon as available.
• First Aid CPR AED certification within six (6) months of employment.
• Proficiency in understanding ecosystems and their preservation.
• Familiarity with techniques for gathering, analyzing, and interpreting natural resource information.
• Knowledge of local natural resources and the ability to assess and manage them effectively.
• Understanding of Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
• Proficiency in statistical analysis, impact assessment, and the formulation of planning and management alternatives regarding natural resource plans and systems.
• Expertise in identifying, cataloging, and preserving local and regional flora and wildlife.
• Proficiency in managing various ecosystems in the Midwest and recommending methods to ensure preservation and care.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Demonstrated success in establishing and maintaining productive working relationships.
• Strong organizational skills to maintain accurate records and data.
  
  

Hours: Monday - Friday 7:00am - 3:30pm.

Starting Salary: $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 allowance.

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.