Illinois Department of Natural Resources

NATURAL RESOURCES SITE MANAGER I

TOPEKA, ILPosted a month ago

Job summary

  • Job post source

    This job is directly from Illinois Department of Natural Resources

  • Job overview

    The Natural Resources Site Manager I at the Illinois Department of Natural Resources oversees fish hatchery operations to support recreational fishing through propagation and distribution of various fish species, impacting conservation and public resource management.

  • Responsibilities and impact

    The role involves supervising staff, developing hatchery plans, preparing feasibility studies, liaising with agencies, managing budgets, monitoring hatchery operations, and disseminating information to the public.

  • Compensation and benefits

    The position offers a starting salary of $6,717 monthly with a full range up to $9,443 monthly, union benefits, health, vision, dental insurance, retirement plans, and flexible work schedules.

  • Experience and skills

    Requires a bachelor's degree in a related biological science and three years of progressively responsible experience in fish, wildlife, forestry, or natural resource management; preferred qualifications include experience in fish management, facility operation, supervision, budget planning, and regulatory knowledge.

  • Career development

    Employees have opportunities for career advancement and skill development within the State of Illinois, supported by various avenues for professional growth and learning.

  • Work environment and culture

    The work culture values diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a focus on public service, environmental conservation, and a supportive union environment.

  • Company information

    The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is a state agency dedicated to preserving and promoting natural resources, managing water, wildlife, parks, and historic sites across Illinois.

  • Team overview

    The candidate will join the Office of Resource Conservation/Fisheries team, working alongside another Assistant Manager to oversee the Jake Wolf Memorial Fish Hatchery operations.

  • Job location and travel

    The job is located at Jake Wolf Memorial Fish Hatchery in Topeka, Illinois, with a requirement to live on-site for security and operational responsiveness.

  • Application process

    Applicants must apply electronically through the Illinois jobs website by the closing date, with specific instructions for state and non-state employees; applications via email or paper are not accepted.

  • Unique job features

    This position is unique due to its on-site living requirement, involvement with a large-scale fish hatchery producing 42 million fish annually, and a visitor center with an antique fishing tackle exhibit.

Company overview

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is a state agency responsible for managing and protecting Illinois' natural, cultural, and recreational resources. It oversees state parks, wildlife conservation, outdoor recreation, and environmental protection while promoting sustainable use of resources. The agency generates revenue through activities like park fees, hunting and fishing licenses, and federal grants. Established in 1995, IDNR plays a critical role in preserving biodiversity and fostering public engagement with nature. Candidates should note its emphasis on conservation, education, and community partnerships.

How to land this job

  • Position your resume to emphasize your experience in fish and wildlife management, with a focus on supervisory roles and facility operations, highlighting any relevant work with fish hatcheries or aquatic resource conservation.

  • Stress your knowledge of fisheries management plans, budget preparation, and your ability to collaborate with state and federal agencies, as these are key responsibilities for the Natural Resources Site Manager I role.

  • Apply through multiple channels including the Illinois Department of Natural Resources official job portal at Illinois.jobs2web.com and LinkedIn to maximize your application visibility.

  • Connect on LinkedIn with current staff in the Division of Fisheries or the Office of Resource Conservation at Illinois DNR; ice breakers can include commenting on recent hatchery initiatives, asking about challenges in fish propagation, or expressing enthusiasm for Illinois fisheries conservation efforts.

  • Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'fish propagation,' 'fisheries management,' 'budget planning,' 'facility maintenance,' and 'supervisory experience' to ensure your resume passes automated screenings.

  • Use Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate submitting tailored resumes to all relevant job portals and identify LinkedIn contacts for networking, allowing you to focus your time on interview preparation and skill enhancement.

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