Trout Unlimited is a national organization with 300,000 members and supporters organized into over 400 chapters and councils nationwide. These dedicated grassroots volunteers are matched by a respected staff of organizers, lawyers, policy experts, and scientists, who work out of more than 45 offices across the country. Our mission is to conserve, protect, and restore North America’s cold-water fisheries and their watersheds.
POSITION SUMMARY
Stream Restoration Technicians will report to the Southern Appalachians Project Manager and overseen in the field by the Crew Leader. These positions will work as part of a team to assist in activities that support native trout and other important aquatic resources on Cherokee National Forest, TN. The primary function will be habitat improvement through strategic wood addition on select streams, utilizing chainsaws, grip hoists and other hand tools to selectively place trees into a stream channel. The expected start date is 29 January 2024 with the season concluding 30 April 2024.
Work will require traversing difficult terrain while carrying field gear up to 50 pounds, potentially working in inclement weather. Personal protective equipment will be provided. Technicians will be responsible for providing their own work-approved footwear (rubber-soled, leather boots).
The position will be based out of Roan Mountain, TN in the North Zone of Cherokee National Forest. Work locations will likely be within 1 hour of the base location.
Technicians will be expected to work 40 hours per week (typically four 10-hour days) and will be paid $15 – $17 per hour depending on experience. Housing will be available at no cost to crew members.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
· With appropriate training and under the guidance of a crew leader, use tools (chainsaws, grip hoists, hand tools, pulleys, levers) to place trees into streams to create aquatic habitat.
· Transport gear (up to 50 lbs/crew member) daily over difficult terrain.
· Work as a team with a high degree of coordination and communication.
· Keep a positive attitude and follow directions while conducting physically demanding work, often in inclement weather.
· Maintain equipment and report maintenance/equipment needs to supervisor.
· Collaborate on field design and implementation of structures to enhance stream morphology.
· Operate in areas with no cellular service.
· Perform all duties with safety as top priority.
· Maintain a high level of integrity while on the job.
This is not an all-inclusive list of duties and responsibilities.
Requirements
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
· Demonstrable experience using chainsaws in moderately complex situations.
· Experience using grip hoists, hand tools, pulleys, levers or other comparable tools.
· Ability to quickly acquire skills and learn new techniques.
· First Aid/CPR certification before start of employment.
· Willing to work long days in challenging environments.
· Strong communication skills.
· A valid driver’s license and the ability to pass background checks for employment.
· A strong passion for native fishes and the watersheds upon which they rely.
· Ability to work cooperatively in a team with varied skills, abilities, and perspectives.
· Ability to think creatively, keep an open mind, and take constructive criticism.
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DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
· Experience with directional tree felling and cutting on steep slopes.
· Any level of USFS Sawyer qualification or equivalent.
· Trail maintenance or construction experience.
· Tree ID skills.
· Knowledge of fish habitat and/or basic hydrology.
· A strong passion for native fishes and the watersheds upon which they rely.