Trails and Facilities Technician

Job Description:

The full-time Trails and Facilities Technician position is based in Lake Forest, Illinois, and reports directly to the Director of Land Stewardship. This role involves close collaboration with the Land Stewardship team to maintain preserves, infrastructure, facilities, and equipment, while also supporting community outreach initiatives through events and programs. Key responsibilities include scheduling, organizing, and tracking maintenance activities across the preserves and associated facilities.

The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, with the ability to work independently as well as part of a team. Strong communication skills are essential for effectively engaging with the public, and technical proficiency is required for maintaining equipment and infrastructure. Additionally, the candidate should be adaptable and willing to assist the Land Stewardship team with various aspects of ecological restoration as needed.

Job Responsibilities: 

• Conduct routine maintenance of trails, infrastructure, facilities, and equipment to ensure optimal function.
• Conduct routine inspections of all preserve infrastructure (board walks, railings, kiosks, memorial plaques, stormwater management infrastructure, etc.)
• Maintain and organize accurate documentation of all equipment, maintenance and repairs.
• Assist in preparing sites for planting plugs, trees, and shrubs, and provide ongoing aftercare, including regular watering to ensure healthy growth.
• Install and maintain signage across preserves and facilities to ensure clear, informative directions for visitors.
• Maintain facilities and equipment in a clean, safe, and efficient working order to support daily operations.
• Assist with mowing operations for event setups and ecological restoration projects.
• Provide support for event setup and cleanup, ensuring a smooth execution of activities.
• Collaborate effectively with the Land Stewardship team, providing assistance to colleagues as needed.
• Serve as the primary point of contact and liaison for Eagle Scout Projects with LFOLA.
• Perform snow removal duties as required to maintain safe conditions during winter months.
• Foster positive relationships with all organizational employees, patrons, and volunteers to encourage cooperation and a productive work environment.

Position Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in a related field (e.g., laborer, maintenance technician, facilities management, or agriculture).
• Proven experience managing small construction projects.
• Strong knowledge of construction, repair techniques, and tool/equipment maintenance.
• Experience operating and maintaining tractors, mowers, pickup trucks, and other machinery.
• Solid project management skills, including task prioritization and meeting deadlines.
• Willingness to perform specific ecological restoration tasks such as prescribed burning and herbicide application.
• Self-motivated with references supporting independent work ethic.
• Team-oriented with good collaboration skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to interpret maps and plans.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365.
• Capable of performing strenuous physical tasks in varying environmental conditions (heat, humidity, rain, etc.), including lifting up to 50 pounds and standing/walking for extended periods on rough or slippery terrain.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, and in remote locaitons with minimal supervision.

Licenses & Certifications

• Must possess and present a valid driver’slicense and ensure reliable transportation to/from work.
• Must possess or be willing to obtain an Illinois Pesticide Operator License.
• Must possess or be willing to obtain Red Cross First Aid and CPR training.
• Final candidates must pass a background check