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.

Primary Location: Charleston, IL

Qualifications and Skills:

• Minimum of 2 years of experience (3+ years preferred) in natural resource management, land
  stewardship, or related operations 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 or
  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 tools
• Working knowledge of Microso[ 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 li[ing and
  carrying 50+ pounds for extended periods
• Flexible availability, including variable schedules, occasional evenings and weekends, and weatherdependent work conditions
• 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

Questions pertaining to job requirements:
Jeff Peyton, Land Manager Jeff@grandprairiefriends.org (217) 714-4171