Job Description
Job Description
Protecting People. Preserving Nature.
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is seeking dedicated and community-minded Police Officers to patrol our preserves, enforce state laws and district ordinances, and ensure the safety of visitors, natural resources, and facilities.
This is a unique opportunity to serve as a sworn peace officer while working in an outdoor setting and combining traditional law enforcement responsibilities with conservation focused public service.
What You'll Do
- Patrol District properties by vehicle, bike, boat, ATV, and on foot.
- Enforce state laws and District ordinances to protect visitors, facilities, and natural areas.
- Respond to emergencies, serve as a first responder, and administer first aid when necessary.
- Apprehend, detain, and arrest offenders; issue citations and complete criminal complaints, search warrants, and arrest warrants.
- Investigate incidents such as accidents, injuries, and criminal activity, preparing thorough written reports.
- Provide educational outreach and engage with the public on safety, regulations, and responsible use of preserves.
- Support departmental policies and foster positive relationships between law enforcement and the community.
What You'll Need
- Associate's degree in Criminal Justice, Natural Resources, or a related field and two (2) years of job-related experience (required), or Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Natural Resources, or related field (preferred).
- An applicant's requirement for an Associate's degree may be waived if they have served for 24 months or more in the U.S. military or served 180 days or more in combat duty in recognition of the U.S. Department of Defense and were not dishonorably discharged (copy of DD 124 to verify military status required).
- Valid driver's license (required).
- Ability to obtain and maintain:
- Certification as a Sworn Peace Officer (within six months, through the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board).
- CPR, AED, and First Aid certification.
- Firearm Owner's Identification (FOID) card.
- Familiarity with state laws, local ordinances, and land-use regulations.
- Strong interest in natural resources, outdoor recreation, and community engagement.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to respond quickly and effectively in emergencies.
- Ability to interact effectively with the public.
- Skilled in exercising good judgement, reacting calmly, and effectively in stressful situations.
- Capability to plan and supervise the work of assigned personnel.
- Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks and projects.
- Ability to handle situations firmly, courteously, tactfully, and impartially. Ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.
Why Join Us?
As a Forest Preserve Police Officer, you'll be part of a mission-driven team that safeguards both people and natural resources. This role offers the chance to:
- Serve and protect the public in a dynamic outdoor environment.
- Build meaningful connections with the community.
- Contribute to conservation and recreation efforts in one of the region's most valued forest preserve systems.
Schedule, Pay & Benefits
- 40 hours a week, schedule varies 7 days a week and holidays.
- We offer an outstanding and affordable benefit package including medical, pension program, and more. To find out more, visit our website.
- New Officer Starting Rate: $33.03 - 35.78 per hour.
- Lateral Officer Starting Rate: $33.03 - 38.53 per hour.
Current displayed rates are for the 2025 calendar year.
The district may compensate newly hired Officers with no prior police experience at a starting salary up to and including Slot 3 on the wage scale ($35.78 per hour).
Applicants for lateral transfer Police Officer appointments must meet the following minimum qualifications and requirements at the time of application:
A newly hired officer shall be considered a "Lateral Transfer" or "Lateral Hire" if the applicant is, at the time of employment offer, a sworn full-time non-probationary officer for at least 2 continuous years. If not currently employed, applicants must have left their most recent agency in good standing within 2 years of the lateral entry application process as a full-time sworn officer with at least 2 years of full-time sworn experience. Out-of-state or federal certified officers considered for a lateral position will need to meet the requirements of ILETSB within 6 months if appointed.
Lateral hires are eligible to be placed on the union wage scale up to and including slot 5 ($38.53 per hour) dependent on experience, knowledge, skills, and ability.
Work Setting
- Based out of the District's Facilities HQ office in Wheaton, IL.
- Includes field-based work across various forest preserve sites throughout DuPage County.
Apply Today
Follow the link to apply directly and be considered for the position.
Additional information about the position and job duties can be found in the attached job description or on our website.
This position is represented by a collective bargaining unit. Candidates hired into this role will be subject to the terms and conditions outlined in the applicable union contract. To review the agreement, please visit the "Work for Us" page on the Forest Preserve District's website.
The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace built on a foundation of respect, integrity, teamwork, and excellence. Our organization provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.