The Forestry Specialist supports field-based forestry operations and conservation workforce initiatives at Openlands.  This hands-on leadership role combines urban forestry fieldwork, training, and apprentice mentorship, while contributing to broader workforce development activities and partner engagement.  

This is a non-hybrid, full-time exempt position that requires flexibility with weekend work primarily but not limited to the planting seasons (April-May & September-November), other start/end times, and evenings during the year.  The Forestry Specialist reports to the Director of Conservation Workforce.   

Essential Functions & Responsibilities: 

Apprentice Supervision & Training 

• Train, oversee, and guide arborist apprentices by providing clear direction, regular feedback, and fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing work culture. 
• Ensure all crew members adhere to ANSI safety standards.   
• Assist with teaching apprentices related technical instruction and on-the-job training, including tree establishment maintenance, tree biology, tree identification, soils, pruning & chainsaw operation. 
• Provide support and encouragement for apprentices throughout the 3-year program.  

Fieldwork & Operations 

• Create weekly and monthly schedules in coordination with the Forestry team, fee-for-service projects, and other assigned work orders.   
• Plan and lead urban forestry work projects, including tree planting and maintenance. Stay up to date with urban forestry and arboricultural best practices. 
• Maintain tools, equipment, and vehicles; manage inventory and supplies. 
• Drive vehicles (with or without trailers) and operate other motorized equipment incidental to the performance of duties. 

Workforce & Partner Engagement 

• Support conservation workforce efforts through partner engagement, career pathway development, and apprenticeship program coordination. 
• Present and publicly speak about programs to coworkers, partner organizations, and the public. 
• Coordinate activities, courses and trainings with program partners and contractors. 
• Perform other duties as assigned.   

Requirements

 Education, Skills & Abilities: 

• High School Diploma or GED 
• Outdoor work experience in arboriculture, horticulture, urban forestry, ecological restoration, biology, environmental science, landscaping, or a closely related field 
• Experience leading groups, mentoring individuals and/or leading workdays.   
• Ability to identify common Midwest and urban tree species and associated pests, diseases, and environmental factors that affect young trees.  
• Knowledge of arboriculture and ability to obtain ISA certification, if not already certified.   
• Ability to lift up to 50+ pounds repeatedly and ability to stand, crouch, and perform several types of manual labor.  
• Valid Illinois Driver’s License and reliable transportation. This license must be maintained for the duration of employment, along with a clean driving record. 
• Ability to drive large vehicles (non-CDL) both in the city and on local highways. 
• Computer literacy including ability to use programs such as PowerPoint, Word, and Excel. 
• Ability to effectively manage activities calmly and professionally.  
• Effectively work under minimal supervision.  
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills. 
• Positive attitude and enthusiasm for trees, nature and connecting Chicago region residents in all community areas to the natural world.  

Compensation:  

Salary range: $57,000–$61,000 annually, commensurate with experience. Comprehensive benefits package including: Health, life, and disability insurance; 403(b) retirement plan with up to 5% employer contribution. Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays!