Jobs Title:
Natural Areas Stewardship Coordinator

Post Date
5/13/2026

Expiration Date
8/11/2026

Details:
The Natural Areas Stewardship Coordinator is a mission-critical, hands-on land management leader who plays a central role in advancing GPF’s conservation outcomes across East-Central Illinois.

With a primary focus on Warbler Ridge Conservation Area (~80% of work time), the Coordinator will intermittently conduct land management services across GPF\'s 130-mile, (9) County service area in Central Illinois. This position partners closely with the GPF\'s Natural Areas Manager to implement land management plans, lead stewardship operations, and ensure ecological integrity across GPF’s diverse portfolio of prairies, savannas, forests, and conservation lands.
Experience Target: At least three years at supervisor level within Natural Areas work; Staff Management experience.

This position includes a generous Paid Time Off schedule, paid holidays, bereavement and parental leave. Position includes a dedicated professional development budget, cell phone stipend, annual safety equipment allowance and option to enroll in an employer-matched SIMPLE IRA. GPF observes an annual paid seasonal office closure, pending emergencies, for all full-time employees from December 24 - January 1. And, we are a fun team!

Qualifications:
Minimum of 2 years of experience (3+ years preferred) in natural resource management, land
stewardship, or related operation with experience supervising interns/staff
 Degree in natural resources, environmental science, or a related field, or equivalent hands-on experience
 Advanced experience with prescribed fire operations and planning; fire certifications (S-130/190
Prescribed Burn Manager) preferred
 Strong ability to identify native Central Illinois plant and animal species and prioritize invasive species
management
 Experience with chemical and mechanical invasive species control
 Ability to safely mix, apply, transport, and store herbicides; Illinois pesticide applicator license or ability to
obtain within 3 months of hire
 Proficient in GPS, topographic maps, offline spatial field apps, and navigation too
 Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); familiarity with Google Workspace,
Adobe, LANDSCAPE®, and GIS (ESRI ArcGIS) preferred
 Knowledge of federal and state land programs (e.g., CRP, EQIP, mitigation and Land Trust Alliance
Standards & Practices preferred
 Experience with project management, including contractors, timelines, and budgets; construction or
infrastructure maintenance experience a plus
 Ability to work primarily outdoors in remote natural areas and uneven terrain; capable of lifting and
carrying 50+ pounds for extended periods
 Flexible availability, including variable schedules, occasional evenings and weekends, and weather
dependent work condition
 Valid driver’s license in good standing
 Self-directed, solutions-oriented professional with strong time management, communication, and
interpersonal skills
 Prior experience working in a nonprofit organization preferred

Employer:
Grand Prairie Friends
Contact:
Sarah Livesay

Email:
sarah@grandprairiefriends.org

Website:
https://www.grandprairiefriends.org/job-listing

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