Director of Human Resources

The Forest Preserves of Cook County

Is seeking applicants for

Director of Human Resources

The Forest Preserves of Cook County is seeking a forward-thinking leader who enforces, and monitors goals and policies as set forth by the Human Rights Ordinance with particular emphasis on discrimination and sexual harassment. Makes oral and written recommendations to district management to address problems and issues associated with findings of employment discrimination and to ensure that appropriate corrective action is taken. Conducts in-service training program on sexual harassment prevention; educates and informs FPD staff of existing policy, complaint procedures and rights as employees

The President of the Forest Preserves will appoint the Director of Human Resources.

About the Forest Preserves of Cook County

Cook County is the second most populous county in the United States and includes the City of Chicago. Within this diverse urban metropolis, the Forest Preserves of Cook County protects 70,000 acres of forests, prairies, wetlands, woodlands and other natural areas including rare habitats that offer plant and animal diversity on par with the rainforests of the world. Thanks to dedicated restoration and conservation efforts, native plants and wildlife—including North American river otters, blue spotted salamanders, native orchids, and birds such as bald eagles and bobolinks—continue to return to or flourish in the preserves. Each year, the Forest Preserves receives an estimated 62 million visits, as people use these lands and facilities to enjoy nature, bicycle, hike, fish, cross-country ski, picnic, canoe, or simply relax. Facilities located in the preserves include nature centers, boat rentals, equestrian stables, golf courses and driving ranges, and aquatic centers. Among the treasures of the Forest Preserves of Cook County are the Brookfield Zoo and the Chicago Botanic Garden, two world-class institutions located on the district’s land.

In 2022, Cook County voters overwhelmingly approved a referendum which increased the property tax limiting rate for the Forest Preserves by an additional one quarter of one tenth of 1%, providing the Forest Preserves with the long-term, sustainable resources it needs to meet the challenges it faces and achieve its long term goals to acquire and protect more land, restore the land to ecological health, and welcome all residents to the Forest Preserves.

The Forest Preserves of Cook County total budget for all funds for FY2026 is $194.1 Million. A breakdown of revenues and expenditures is presented in the 2026 FPDCC Executive Budget Recommendation

About the Department of Human Resources

The Director of Human Resources leads the Department of Human Resources, which includes 11 employees in two key areas: Personnel Services and Employee/Staff Support.

The incoming Director of Human Resources will join an organization that is focused on ensuring that the overall mission of the Forest Preserve District is advanced through the plans, programs and activities of all departments.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary: $125,000-149,735 annually DOE/DOQ. The Forest Preserves of Cook County offers a competitive benefits package which includes medical, dental and vision coverage; basic term life insurance; a pension plan and deferred compensation program; an employee assistance program; and paid holidays, vacation, and sick time.

Application Process and Recruitment Schedule

A full job description is presented on the following To be considered, please submit your cover letter, resume, and a list of four professional references (who will not be contacted in the early stages of the recruitment) by 5 p.m. on May 30, 2026 to [email protected]. Resumes should reflect years and months of positions held, as well as the size and budget of the previous program or department you have managed or administered.

Resumes will be screened based on the criteria outlined in this brochure. Candidates with the most relevant qualifications will be invited to interview. The selected candidate will be subjected to an extensive reference and background check.

The Forest Preserves of Cook County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value our employees and the different talents, expertise, and viewpoints that each brings to the table. We believe a robust exchange of ideas results in better decision-making and we commit to providing a constructive, safe, and positive work atmosphere that promotes mutual respect and empowers individuals to thrive in their jobs.

Pay: $125,000.00 - $149,735.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Chicago, IL 60602