Conservation Planner in Chicago, Illinois at Openlands

The Conservation Planner advances Openlands’ mission to protect and steward land, water, and natural resources across the Chicago region. This role supports landscape-scale conservation and planning initiatives in a complex, multi-jurisdictional environment—bridging policy, planning, and on-the-ground implementation.

The Conservation Planner brings a strategic, collaborative approach to land use and conservation planning, applying data, partnerships, and technical expertise to drive long-term regional impact. This position works across Openlands programs—including land preservation, restoration, forestry, and policy—and engages public agencies, private partners, and communities to deliver meaningful and equitable conservation outcomes.

This is a full-time, exempt, hybrid position reporting to the Director of Conservation Planning.

This position is budgeted to start on September 1, 2026.

Essential Functions

Planning, Policy and Analysis

Conduct research and analysis to inform policy positions, advocacy strategies, and planning recommendations that advance regional conservation goals.

Develop policy briefs, public comments, and guidance supporting equitable land use, conservation, and climate resilience outcomes.

Support and help shape policy reform efforts at local, regional, and state levels, including conservation defense initiatives.

Provide technical assistance to public agencies and partners on land use, open space, and environmental planning practices.

Monitor emerging policy trends, funding opportunities, and regulatory developments to inform organizational strategy.

Project Management and Implementation

Lead and manage landscape-scale planning projects from concept through implementation, establishing clear goals, timelines, and accountability for outcomes.

Coordinate internal teams and external partners to deliver high-quality work on time and within budget.

Track progress, evaluate results, and communicate project updates clearly and consistently to stakeholders.

Partnerships and Collaboration

Build and maintain strong relationships with government agencies, elected officials, community-based organizations, and private sector partners.

Participate in advisory groups, coalitions, and planning initiatives focused on greenways, comprehensive plans, site planning, and open space systems.

Facilitate inclusive engagement processes that reflect community priorities and diverse perspectives.

Communications and Representation

Develop and support outreach and communications strategies, including reports, presentations, and public-facing materials, to advance planning initiatives and build support.

Represent Openlands at meetings, conferences, and events, upholding the organization’s reputation for integrity, expertise, and leadership.

Organizational Contribution

Collaborate across internal teams (land preservation, restoration, forestry, and policy) to align efforts and maximize organizational impact.

Contribute to a culture of learning, adaptability, and continuous improvement.

Perform other duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Required

Bachelor’s degree in urban planning, public policy, environmental studies, landscape architecture, urban design, or a related field

Minimum of three (3) years of professional experience in planning, conservation, or public policy

Demonstrated project management experience, including tracking deliverables and budgets

Knowledge of land and water conservation, land use planning, and urban/environmental systems

Strong writing, facilitation, presentation, and project management skills

Ability to work across disciplines and navigate complex stakeholder environments

Ability to translate spatial data into clear, actionable insights for partners, policymakers, and the public
Preferred

Master’s degree in a relevant field

Experience working in the Chicago region or similar metropolitan areas

Familiarity with GIS and spatial analysis tools

AICP Certification or active pursuit of AICP

Technical Skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace including google earth

Experience with collaboration and project tools (e.g., Mural, Trello)

Familiarity with design and communications tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite)

Compensation: 

Salary range: $65,000–$70,000, commensurate with experience. Comprehensive benefits package including: Health, life, and disability insurance; 403(b) retirement plan with up to 5% employer contribution. Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.  

Work Environment: 

Office is ADA accessible. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, and scanners. Employee is regularly required to talk, hear, see, and communicate effectively via computer. This role requires manual labor- standing, bending, crouching, lifting. 

Ability to perform duties in a variety of outdoor conditions and weather, including heat, cold, rain, and snow. 

Smoke- and drug-free environment. 

Openlands is an equal opportunity employer and seeks to employ qualified individuals based on individual merit. Openlands does not discriminate against any individual with respect to the terms and conditions of employment based on that individual’s race, sex, age, religion, color, national origin, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, housing status, or any other non-merit factor protected under state, local or federal laws.  
 
Equal Employment Opportunity applies to all personnel actions such as recruiting, hiring, compensation, benefits, promotions, training, transfer, termination, and opportunities for training. Openlands is committed to a fair and equitable workplace where everyone is a respected and valued member of the team.