Responsibilities
In collaboration with partner organizations including the Forest Preserves of Cook County and Poplar Creek Prairie Stewards:
Recruit volunteers to engage in hands-on ecological stewardship activities (brush cutting, seed collecting, weed control, etc.) by building strong relationships with individuals and groups in targeted communities
Develop strategies to overcome community-specific barriers to participation in the volunteer program
Conduct in-person outreach and create engaging digital and printed communications
Coordinate volunteer enrichment and recruitment events (e.g. kickoff events, trainings, bird walks, nature hikes, paddling events, monitoring, public presentations, and social gatherings)
Assist in mentoring individuals up the “ladder of leadership,” by which volunteers gain knowledge and skills and assume greater levels of responsibility and leadership
Contribute to the growth and development of Friends’ volunteer engagement team.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or comparable experience
Extensive experience in community organizing, volunteer management, and/or environmental
education
Demonstrated experience working in partnership with grassroots organizations and/or government
agencies
Strong grasp of concepts in ecology and biodiversity conservation
Confidence and cultural competence to work across communities encompassing
diversity in race, income, educational level, and age
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Positive, encouraging approach to identifying and lifting up the strengths of others
Ability to work independently and as a team
Excellent time management skills
Valid driver’s license and access to vehicle
Regular availability on evenings and weekends
Flexible schedule
Ability to lift and move heavy objects (50 pounds) and to work outside in inclement weather and
extreme temperatures
Familiarity with communities in the northwest region of Cook County, such as Streamwood, Elgin, Schaumberg, Hoffman Estates, and others.
Beneficial Skills/Qualifications
Familiarity with local forest preserves, flora, and fauna
Knowledge of the practice of restoration ecology for prairie, savanna, and woodlands
Current Illinois Herbicide Applicator license, First Aid and CPR certifications or ability to acquire these before program start.
Benefits
Flexible schedule
Five paid sick days per year
Seven paid holidays/personal days per year
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 Radhika Miraglia, Advocacy and Engagement Director, radhika@fotfp.org .