Forester II

The Village of Riverside, the Village in the Forest, is seeking an energetic, goal oriented, team player to join its Public Works Department as Forester II. Applications are currently being accepted for the position and the position will be open until filled. This full-time position works a regular schedule of Monday through Friday 7:30 am to 4:00 pm.

This position develops and implements urban forestry programs, policies, and initiatives that promote sustainable canopy coverage, biodiversity, and climate resilience, while overseeing tree planting, maintenance, and removal across public spaces, including streets, parks, and municipal properties. Working collaboratively with Village departments, contractors, community organizations, and residents, the Forester II ensures compliance with applicable ordinances, regulations, and industry standards, provides technical expertise to staff, and oversees contractor performance. The role maintains tree inventory data and supports long-term canopy planning, assists with budget development and grant opportunities, responds to public inquiries and resolves forestry-related concerns, and leads community outreach and education efforts.

This position requires the ability to work either scheduled or emergency overtime. Overtime opportunities include, but are not limited to, water system repairs, sewer system repairs, snow removal, emergency tree removal, and special events.

Starting pay rate is $41.85 per hour, rate may increase up to $45.25 via additional incentive pay for various licenses/certifications. Prior Forestry experience required. Lateral transfers will be entertained if experience and qualifications are proven to be relevant.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and possess a 4-year college degree in Forestry, Horticulture or related, a valid Illinois driver’s license and have the ability to obtain a Class “B” Commercial Driver’s License with air brake endorsement within 6 months of employment. Applicants must obtain satisfactory results on a physical examination, drug/alcohol screen, and background check.

Applicants should possess an ISA Arborist Certification and Tree Risk Assessor Qualification.

The Village offers a generous benefits package including, but not limited to:

•    Paid Vacation
•    Paid Holidays
•    Sick Leave
•    Personal Days
•    Ability to Earn Comp Time
•    IMRF Pension
•    Health Savings Account
•    Life Insurance
•    457 Deferred Compensation Plan
•    Uniform Allowance
•    Major Medical and Dental Insurance

The Village of Riverside is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are critical to the Village’s success. The Village seeks to recruit the most talented individuals from a diverse candidate pool and strongly encourages applications to be submitted from all genders, all races, all sexual orientations, people with disabilities, and Military Veterans.

Village of Riverside
27 Riverside Rd.
Riverside, IL 60546

Equal Opportunity Employer

For more information, contact:

Ian Splitt
isplitt@riverside.il.us
(708)447-2700