Crew Leader, Forest Preserve Experience Program

Friends of the Forest Preserves seeks Crew Leaders to be part of the Forest Preserve Experience (FPE) leadership team.. FPE is a five-week summer program for teens, focused on job skill development, restoration work, environmental education, training, and exposure to the forest preserves and jobs in conservation. For many participants, this program serves as a first job, so Crew Leaders excel in relating to and guiding youth through the program. Successful candidates have strong communication skills, experience leading high school aged students, and a passion for environmental conservation.

Responsibilities:

● Co-supervise, motivate, coordinate, and mentor 12 high school youth (ages 14-19) employed in the FPE program. Plan and lead a variety of hands-on ecological conservation and restoration projects (such as invasive species removal and litter pick-up) in forest preserves in Cook County
● Assist in leading educational activities as well as team building exercises and games

● Demonstrate safe tool usage and ensure safety procedures are followed

● Teach basic invasive plant identification to crew members.

● Evaluate and document crew attendance, work activities, and performance.

Required Qualifications: ● 21 years or older

● Ability to meet at forest preserve locations and community colleges in south or west suburbs of Cook County

● Must be able to attend mandatory training June 21 thru June 30 in addition to being able to serve entire length of program

● Experience working with diverse groups of youth and strong interest in working with and mentoring youth

● Ability to foster strong work habits, environmental ethics, leadership, and team unity

● Experience teaching in classroom and/or field setting a plus

● Ability to maintain an inclusive, safe, productive, and enjoyable work environment

● Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills

● Outdoor skills, plant identification skills, knowledge of Midwestern ecology is preferred but not required

● Current basic First Aid and adult CPR certifications or willingness to obtain one (Training provided)

● Willingness to obtain a Illinois Alternative Herbicide license (Training provided)

● Ability to lift and move heavy objects (50 lbs.) and work outside in inclement weather and extreme temperatures

Dates of Employment:

Local Program Training: June 21 thru June 30 from 8 am to 3 pm

Program Dates: July 5 thru August 4 (5 days a week for 5 weeks)

Crew Leaders work 8:00 am to 1:00 pm, Monday thru Friday

For more information and to apply: Please NO calls, faxes, office visits, or emails (other than emails presenting resume and cover letter). Send cover letter, resume, and two references to: Hannah Miller, Program Manager, at hannah@fotfp.org.