Lead Conservatory Horticulturist

The Conservatory Specialist plays a critical role in the daily horticultural care and management of the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory. This hands-on position is responsible for ensuring plant health, aesthetic display standards, and ideal environmental conditions within the conservatory. The role involves supervising staff and volunteers, implementing plant care programs, supporting garden operations, and contributing to the success of exhibitions and special events.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Oversees and participates in the daily care of plant collections, including watering, pruning, staking, deadheading, fertilizing, soil conditioning, weeding, planting, mulching, trash removal, spraying, and other horticultural tasks.
Maintains ideal growing conditions within the conservatory, including light, humidity, temperature, air circulation, water quality, and soil nutrients.
Implements and manages an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program to keep plants pest-free.
Develops and follows fertilizer and nutrient application schedules to ensure plant vigor.
Designs and installs high-quality, seasonal, and educational plant displays for public engagement.
Coordinates and supervises daily work assignments for the indoor horticulture team and volunteers.
Assists and participates in plant collection evaluations and development.
Maintains accurate records related to plant collections and assists with plant labeling and data management.
Tracks conservatory-related expenses and provides input for budgeting purposes.
Ensures safe work practices are followed, reducing hazards and minimizing public interference.
Assists with seasonal rotations, special exhibitions, tours, events, and general public garden preparations.
Behaves in a professional, team-oriented manner that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
May assist in developing signage or written content for plant displays and public education.
Uses appropriate power tools and equipment (e.g., blowers, sprayers, saws).
Performs other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Supervises one full-time Indoor Horticulturist and coordinates volunteer efforts as needed.

Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture, Botany, Biology, or a related field preferred.
Minimum of two years of practical and relevant horticultural work experience.
Strong understanding of tropical and desert plants, plant care techniques, pest and disease management, and indoor environmental control.

Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations

Valid Oklahoma Driver’s License.
Ability to obtain a certified pesticide applicator’s license for indoor pest management.

Computer Equipment and Software Requirements

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
Ability to use plant collection management databases (preferred but not required).
General word processing and research skills.

Skills and Abilities Required

Strong work ethic and initiative.
Excellent observation and attention to detail.
Ability to follow written and oral instructions.
Ability to lead, work independently, as part of a team, and with volunteers.
Friendly, polite, and service-oriented demeanor when interacting with the public.
Scheduling flexibility, including availability for weekends and holidays, as needed.
Clear verbal and written communication skills.

Work Environment

Primarily indoors within the conservatory; frequent exposure to heat, humidity, and moisture.
Potential exposure to pollens, insects, chemical agents (fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides), and other allergens.
Work may involve navigating slippery surfaces or uneven ground.
Occasional outdoor work and interactions with moving equipment or public traffic flow.
Some tasks may be performed at varying heights or in less-accessible locations.

Physical Requirements

Must be able to work in high heat and humidity for extended periods.
Must be able to lift, push, pull, and carry objects up to 50 pounds.
Frequent bending, twisting, stooping, reaching, and other repetitive movements.
Ability to transport and move potted plants and plant trays of varying sizes and weights.
Must be able to use stairs and navigate uneven terrain as part of daily duties.
May be required to perform tasks at elevated heights (e.g., using ladders or lifts).

Pennsylvania Field Representative & Wildlife Health Coordinator

Founded in 2002, the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership (TRCP) is a national conservation organization that works with 60+ partner groups, its Corporate Council and its 140,000 members and supporters to guarantee all Americans quality places to hunt and fish. We unite and amplify our partners’ voices by strengthening policy and funding around conservation, habitat, and access.

TRCP’s Pennsylvania Field Representative & Wildlife Health Coordinator works to advance TRCP’s mission through two distinct but related channels. Time spent toward each will vary throughout the year but is expected to be split approximately evenly. First, this individual collaborates closely with partner organizations, community leaders, and decision makers to further TRCP’s policy priorities in Pennsylvania, with special attention paid to private lands conservation leading to improved water quality in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Second, this individual will coordinate the TRCP’s strategy to combat Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) nationwide. This will include working with partner and non-partner organizations, meeting with state and federal officials including lawmakers and agency staff, and identifying avid and engaged hunters, anglers and landowners, media and social media influencers who can contribute to these goals. Working as a member of the Center for Private Lands Conservation team, this individual works closely with the Director of Private Lands Conservation, TRCP communications and science staff, and partner organizations to further the conservation mission of the organization.

The TRCP offers a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, 401k, cell phone and home internet reimbursement, and ample paid time off.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Serve as the organization’s representative within the state of Pennsylvania on conservation, access, water management and habitat policies affecting hunters and anglers:

Maintain TRCP’s involvement with the Pennsylvania Sportsmen and Women Policy Workgroup, working with other leading hunt-fish groups to advance shared priorities in the state.

Organize support for conservation priorities from decision makers in Pennsylvania, including county commissioners, mayors, members of Congress, the Governor, and other influential actors.

Engage grassroots hunters and anglers and work cooperatively with organized sporting groups and businesses to advance TRCP’s conservation and access priorities.

Engage with key agencies, including the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, Pennsylvania Game Commission, and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.

Foster relationships with other important stakeholders in the state, including the agriculture and energy industries, landowners, land managers and other influential, conservation-minded stakeholders.

Work with the TRCP’s communications staff to generate strategically appropriate press coverage and to communicate with our members and the public electronically.

Working as part of a multidisciplinary team, coordinate the TRCP’s national strategy to combat Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD):

Work cooperatively with TRCP partners, states, and tribes to advance shared CWD priorities.

Work with the TRCP government relations, private lands, and communications teams to support continued federal funding for CWD research and testing, and to help change the public narrative about CWD.

Participate in established CWD science coalitions, such as the AFWA Fish and Wildlife Health Committee.

Work with partners to monitor and weigh in on relevant CWD related policy proposals nationwide.

Support partners in educating hunters about other relevant wildlife disease or pest threats, such as Episodic Hemorrhagic Disease (EHD), hoof rot, and New World Screwworm (NWS).

When possible, serve on relevant federal, state, or local advisory groups/commissions/boards.

Work with TRCP leadership to ensure financial support for the campaign and its activities, including tracking grant deliverables and developing grant proposals and reports.

Minimum Requirements:

A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field is strongly preferred; equivalent, directly relevant experience considered.

2+ years of professional and/or volunteer experience in natural resource issues.

Detailed knowledge of hunting and fishing culture and fish and wildlife management in Pennsylvania.

Ability to find, evaluate, and synthesize credible sources of scientific information for a general audience.

Ability to build and maintain strong working relationships with a diverse group of stakeholders and partners.

Strong communication and writing skills.

Ability to work independently and coordinate multiple priorities within a diverse project and policy portfolio.

A passion for fish and wildlife and an interest in hunting and/or fishing.

Willingness and ability to travel across the state and hold a valid Driver’s License. Occasional wider travel, especially to Washington, D.C., is expected.

Strong initiative, enthusiasm, tact, and willingness to pitch in when needed.

The ideal candidate will have established relationships in Pennsylvania across multiple sectors and governmental jurisdictions and have a demonstrated record of effectively influencing conservation policy.

Landscape Conservation Program Coordinator

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s mission is to protect, manage, and advocate for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.
Position Summary

The Landscape Program Coordinator, reporting to the Director of Landscape Conservation, plays a key role in managing and enhancing the Appalachian Trail (AT) Communities Program while supporting the coordination and facilitation of the Appalachian Trail Landscape Partnership (ATLP). This position focuses on strengthening internal and external communications, building and maintaining relationships with community partners, and advancing the ATC’s landscape conservation goals through collaboration, outreach, and strategic program support.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Manage and grow the Appalachian Trail Communities Program, ensuring engagement with local stakeholders and alignment with ATC’s strategic goals.
Provide custodial oversight, and administration support to ATC-designated communities.
Coordinate and facilitate the Appalachian Trail Landscape Partnership (ATLP):

Act as a convenor and collaborator among diverse partners.

Organize meetings and support shared initiatives.
Promote consistent and effective partnership operations.
Develop and maintain consistent communications with internal staff and external partners:
Create quarterly newsletters, program reports, and blog posts.
Coordinate with internal teams to update relevant webpages and communications materials.
Maintain strong working relationships with regional trail staff and other ATC departments.
Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in environmental sciences, public policy, community planning, community and economic development, and/or recreation management.
One to three years of experience in related field is preferred. Experience in the environmental non-profit sector, including project management, coalition and partnership building, developing and implementing communication strategies, and providing logistical and administrative support.
Strong organizational skills and relationship-building capabilities.
Demonstrated passion for community-based conservation and landscape-scale partnerships.
Self-starter with the ability to work independently and with minimal supervision.
Collaborative, with the ability to work effectively across teams and partner organizations.
Eager to learn, grow, and contribute to a mission-driven organization.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
Familiarity with the Appalachian Trail and its communities is desirable.
Required to attend any in-person events or meetings, including staff retreat once a year.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Must be able to effectively communicate via phone, email, virtual platforms, and in-person meetings.
Prolonged periods of work on a computer and telephone.
Ability to occasionally lift and move up to 20 pounds.
Travel within the program area for meetings, workshops, and community events (approximately 10–15% of the time).
Occasional evening and weekend work required for community engagement.
One of the 14 A.T. states the trail traverses: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Georgia.

Additional Details

Hourly range: ($26.00 – $28.00).
Location: Remote position. Applicants must be located within one of the 14 A.T. states.
Health, dental, and vision insurance available.
Company paid long-term disability and life insurance provided.
403(b) Retirement Plan with up to 7% match after 1 year of service.

Environmental Specialist I – Resource Conservation

Description

Under the direction of the Environmental Department Director, the Environmental Specialist (Level I) develops and implements the Resource Conservation Program (RCP) and ensures compliance with federal and tribal environmental regulations, related to natural resources. Environmental Specialist I is an entry-level position and meets the minimum qualifications. At this level, incumbents learn and perform program activities under supervision and begin the Tribal Inspector training. PATHWAYS OPTION: Tribal Members or Descendants pursuing a career in natural resources/environmental science may have the education requirement waived, provided the candidate is otherwise qualified for entry-level.

Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Botany, Wildlife Management, Environmental Studies/ Sciences, Native American Studies, or related field. *Education requirement may be waived for Tribal Members or Tribal Descendant who meet all other qualifications.
Must have knowledge of the habitat and species in Riverside County/San Gorgonio Pass Region
Previous experience working on environmental protection projects preferred.
Experience working in Native American tribal communities preferred

Under the direction of the Environmental Department Director, the Environmental Specialist (Level I) develops and implements the Resource Conservation Program (RCP) and ensures compliance with federal and tribal environmental regulations, related to natural resources. Environmental Specialist I is an entry-level position and meets the minimum qualifications. At this level, incumbents learn and perform program activities under supervision and begin the Tribal Inspector training. PATHWAYS OPTION: Tribal Members or Descendants pursuing a career in natural resources/environmental science may have the education requirement waived, provided the candidate is otherwise qualified for entry-level.

Qualifications

Under the direction of the Environmental Department Director, the Environmental Specialist (Level I) develops and implements the Resource Conservation Program (RCP) and ensures compliance with federal and tribal environmental regulations, related to natural resources.
Environmental Specialist I is an entry-level position and meets the minimum qualifications. At this level, incumbents learn and perform program activities under supervision and begin the Tribal Inspector training. PATHWAYS OPTION: Tribal Members or Descendants pursuing a career in natural resources/environmental science may have the education requirement waived, provided the candidate is otherwise qualified for entry-level.
Salary: DOE

Biologist II

Job Summary
The Biologist II is a mid-level scientific role responsible for conducting field research, collecting and analyzing biological data, supporting conservation initiatives, and assisting in the development of environmental programs and reports.
Primary Responsibilities
Conduct surveys and monitoring activities related to wildlife, aquatic ecosystems, plant species, or habitats. Collect biological samples, record field observations, and utilize specialized equipment for data collection. Ensure quality control and proper handling of data collected in the field. Analyze biological data using statistical and geographic information system (GIS) tools. Prepare detailed technical reports, biological assessments, and summaries for internal use and regulatory compliance. Support the preparation of grant applications, research proposals, and scientific publications. Assist with the planning and implementation of conservation, restoration, or habitat management projects. Collaborate with senior biologists, engineers, and program managers to fulfill project objectives. Support compliance with state and federal environmental laws, policies, and permits. Conduct environmental impact assessments and provide biological input on regulatory decisions.
Knowledge and Skills
Ability to interpret data and apply biological concepts to practical field and policy challenges. Strong written and oral communication skills for presenting findings and working with stakeholders. Precise in data collection, documentation, and analytical processes. Able to perform fieldwork in varying environmental conditions and shift priorities as needed. Maintains integrity, scientific objectivity, and confidentiality in handling sensitive data.
Minimum Qualifications
At least three years of experience in biology, or a related field.

Arboretum Technician

Responsible for curating campus arboretum through the development of framework for living plant collection. Carries out various technical landscape, data mapping and arboriculture objectives that support the development of the Rural Southwest New Mexico Integrated Urban Forestry Grant Project campus arboretum.

Duties:

Properly Analyze/Identify, Labeling, mapping woody plants, and collect spatial and cultural data for accurate arboretum signage and GIS mapping into ArcGIS.
Maintains and organizes database of all WNMU plants of merit, labeling system, and collects and organizes plant info sheets in preparation for website creation.
Maintains trees and woody plants to ensure their healthy, safe, and attractive condition, including; repairing, cabling, fertilizing, watering, and pruning; and removal of any dead, diseased or declining trees, or other woody plants.
Manage nursery /arboretum stock including propagation and pot-up.
Maintains compliance with “Tree Campus USA” designation and associated administrative duties.
Creates detailed annual tree projects summary and reports to Urban Forestry Grant Director.
Works with arboretum/horticulture manager to maintain high-impact garden/landscape areas to top visual standards.
Implements beautification projects in accordance with indicated requests.
Required to operate a university vehicle during day-to-day operations.
Administrative duties and reporting to support grant project.
Tracks and documents tree planting projects on campus.
Performs other duties as assigned.

Education/Background: Bachelor’s degree in plant related field required or experience equivalent to 4 years in Arboriculture, Landscape, or Horticulture. Familiarity with GIS computer mapping is preferred.

The Arboretum Technician must possess a strong understanding of WNMU’s mission, values, and organizational structure. This role requires knowledge of university policies, procedures, and best practices in Arboriculture to effectively support institutional goals. The ideal candidate will demonstrate expertise in plant taxonomy, specifically woody plant identification with the ability to distinguish species within a genus. Knowledge of GIS and computer mapping and database management. Knowledge of maintaining living plant collections. Administrative skills and the ability to maintain organization. Knowledge of proper pruning techniques. Knowledge of basic soil science. Knowledge of composting. Knowledge of safety practices in the operation of electrical and mechanical equipment. Knowledge of proper tree planting techniques and the ability to select the correct species for a given location. Skill in performing a variety of general tree care and landscape activities. Keep all assigned workspaces in safe clean and orderly condition. Skill in working in an environment subject to changing priorities, exposure to all environmental conditions, and performance of work in varying terrains.

Stewardship Program Assistant Director

Paul Smith’s College is seeking a Stewardship Program Assistant Director for its flagship Adirondack Watershed Institute. The Stewardship Program Assistant Director oversees operations related to hiring, training, and supervising the seasonal staff of the Adirondack Watershed Institute’s Adirondack Aquatic Invasive Species Spread Prevention Program (Stewardship Program). The program operates at 65+ locations, from May to October, throughout the Adirondack region and is centered around providing education to boaters about aquatic invasive species spread prevention methods, as well as performing watercraft inspections and decontaminations to ensure boats meet the clean, drain, and dry standard. This position provides direction and leadership to both full-time and seasonal AWI staff and will collaborate with other AWI staff to meet the mission of AWI.

The mission of AWI is to protect clean water, conserve habitat and support the health and well-being of people in the Adirondacks through scientific inquiry, stewardship, and real-world experiences for students. AWI has been a program of Paul Smith’s College since its inception in 2002.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Responsible for supervising, coaching, and evaluating the work and performance of the Stewardship Program Manager.
Coordinate the recruitment and hiring of seasonal staff, including regular collaboration with the Paul Smith’s College People & Culture Office and Payroll Departments.
Responsible for supervising, coaching, and evaluating regional supervisors.
Responsible for leading the development, implementation, and evaluation of seasonal staff training in collaboration with the Stewardship team.
Responsible for seasonal staff schedule and work location assignments.
Work with Regional Supervisors to mentor and supervise seasonal staff, including handling personnel issues and coverage gaps at contracted work sites.
Conduct site visits to ensure supervisors and stewards are performing duties and meeting expectations.
Manage seasonal staff payroll in collaboration with the Stewardship Program Manager and Regional Supervisors.
Assist the Aquatic Invasive Species Program Director with long-range planning and ensuring the program is structured appropriately to meet its goals.
Ensure Paul Smith’s College meets the compliance requirements and obligations of its contract with the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, in collaboration with AWI and PSC leadership.
Communicate with NYS DEC, lake associations, municipalities, and other partners as needed.
Represent AWI at regional and state meetings, conferences, and other events.
Analyze program information and data in order to conduct adaptive management decisions.
Assist the Director with contract reporting.
Perform other tasks as assigned to support AWI’s mission.

Qualifications and Preferences:

Bachelor’s Degree in a natural resources discipline and a minimum of 2 years of professional experience in natural resource management.
Demonstrated experience with and knowledge of invasive species issues and/or management.
Supervisory, leadership, and administrative experience including but not limited to: tasks associated with hiring, training, and performance evaluation, developing reports accurately and in a timely manner, ability to diplomatically and objectively mentor and supervise staff, and ability to work collaboratively with partners and colleagues.
Ability to work with a broad range of diverse individuals and groups to form a safe and inclusive campus community.
Experience with and ability to manage multiple tasks at a time.
Public education and interpretation experience.
Comfortable with speaking to members of the public.
Capability to perform duties independently and proactively.
Ability to work weekends and holidays as needed.
Driver’s license and driving record acceptable to PSC insurance carrier and AWI, which will enable authorization to drive College-owned vehicles.

Natural Resources Manager

The Natural Resources Manager, under the general direction of the Planning & Operations Director, is responsible for the successful management and administration of all natural resource, environmental, wildlife and land management activities on MetroParks’ property. This position involves research, development, planning, management, and implementation of assigned tasks, projects and grants. This position is suitable for transitional duty.

Responsibilities:
Natural Resource, Environmental, Wildlife & Land Management – 70%

Develop and implement procedures and policies for the management and stewardship of all areas on MetroParks’ properties
Develop and coordinate implementation of programs to manage invasive and non-native plant species
Implement programs to manage nuisance wildlife in cooperation and collaboration with Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Wildlife and state/local/federal law
Develop location specific natural resource management plans that address both short term and long term management objectives
Coordinate and conduct wetland delineations, stream surveys and ecological site assessments, prepare the associated reports and coordinate mitigation/ecological restoration projects
Coordinate the safe and proper application of herbicides, pesticides and other chemicals
Coordinate and conduct various wildlife population surveys as required
Develop and implement projects and perform related duties as assigned by the Planning & Natural Resources Director
Coordinate land acquisition activities; research property parcels for possible acquisition and prepare mapping
Use GIS computer software to develop and maintain a database of MetroParks properties, facilities and natural resources

Supervision of related personnel and natural resource activities – 15%

Supervises assigned personnel, plans and schedules daily work projects
Reviews, approves and maintains all necessary records including but not limited to time cards, paid time off requests, training mandates and administrative documents
Serve as MetroParks representative and active participant in AWARE and other regional natural resource organizations
Provides technical assistance to other MetroParks departments as needed to ensure all planning and natural resource management goals are reached
Cultivate professional affiliations and partnerships with federal, state and local agencies and academic universities to carry out various projects
Coordinate and prepare all required project related and operational environmental permitting including but not limited to EPA, USACE, ODNR, ODOT, County Board of Health, etc. Coordinate EPA storm water program requirements
Conduct public presentations at MetroParks Board meetings, to various regional organizations and speak to local media on environmental, land management and natural resource projects and issues

Departmental Functions – 15%

Assists in the preparation of the Annual Plan of Operation and corresponding budget
Research grant opportunities to further the goals of the MetroParks; prepare and write grant applications
Perform other duties as assigned by the Planning Manager and/or the Director of Planning and Operations

Education/Qualifications:
Minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Resources, Land Management, Natural/Environmental Sciences, Ecosystem Studies, or similar field an accredited college or university
Must have a minimum of four (4) years of professional project experience in environmental land management, ecosystem management and watershed activities
Must possess a valid Driver’s License

Essential Knowledge, Abilities and Skills:
Must be highly organized, efficient and capable of managing numerous projects & personnel simultaneously within a fast paced environment
Must be able to maintain a continuous positive attitude and professional appearance at all times.
Ability to effectively communicate in both verbal and written form to a variety of audiences. Must be highly skilled in the realm of public speaking, presentations and interaction.
Must possess proficient technological skills and abilities in the operation of standard computer software including but not limited to Microsoft Office, AutoCAD, ArcGIS, Adobe Creative Suite, internet searches, smart phone capabilities, time tracking software, etc.
Knowledge of current industry trends in the fields of natural resource management, construction, maintenance, facilities operation and their respective best management practices. Knowledge of sustainability principles
Knowledge of surveying techniques, fundamentals and demonstrated ability to use survey equipment.
Ability to read, interpret and convey directions and instructions from blueprints, plans, drawings, specifications, manuals and mappings
Ability to apply technical knowledge to practical situations and demonstrate positive results
Knowledge and ability to use hand tools and spray equipment to safely and properly carry out necessary tasks
Knowledge of northeastern Ohio flora and fauna

Open Space Field Biologist

Position Summary

Plan, conduct, coordinate and participate in ecosystem restoration and monitoring. Conduct and coordinate ecosystem research and natural resource field studies using topographic maps, aerial photographs, GPS units, and other data collection tools. Support ongoing restoration efforts, management and monitoring of Open Space properties and perform a variety of technical tasks relative to assigned areas of responsibility.

Job descriptions are intended to present a general list of tasks/duties performed by employees within this job classification. Job Descriptions are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.
Minimum Education, Experience And Additional Requirements

Education and experience directly related to the minimum requirements below may be interchangeable on a year for year basis.

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in biology or education; and

Three (3) years experience in completing biological surveys and field work studies in flora and fauna, natural resources or public lands, and conducting land management activities on a variety of habitats.

Experience in New Mexico plant and wildlife species identification preferred.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver’s license, or the ability to obtain by date of hire.

Possession of a City Operator’s Permit (COP) within 6 months from date of hire.

Preferred Knowledge

Methods and techniques of New Mexico plant and wildlife identification
Principles of ecosystem management
Methods of preservation, management, and maintenance of sensitive ecosystems
Principles and practices of Parks and Open Space education programming
Office procedures, methods and computer equipment
Principles and procedures of record keeping
Natural and cultural history of Parks and Open Space areas
Occupational hazards and standard safety practices
Pertinent Federal, State and local laws, codes and regulations

Preferred Skills & Abilities

Plan, conduct, and coordinate ecosystem research and natural resources field studies
Participate in the supervision of the Open Space Division’s operations, services and activities
Utilize topographic maps, aerial photographs, GPS units, and other data collection tools
Elicit community and organizational support for Open Space activities and events
Administer, coordinate and participate in ecosystem restoration and monitoring
Interpret Parks and Open Space rules and regulations
Promote science educational programs
Operate a variety of hand tools in a safe and effective manner
Allocate limited resources, including volunteers, in an effective manner
Communicate clearly and concisely
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work
Perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation

Natural Areas Management Seasonal Technician

Pottawattamie County Conservation is announcing the hiring for their Natural Areas Management Seasonal Technician Position.

The Natural Areas Management seasonal technician position operates from August through mid-November

Individuals in this position are responsible for assisting the Natural Resource Specialist and/or the Natural Resource Technicians with the management of assigned County parks and/or properties in accordance with Conservation Board policies, state laws, and standard conservation practices. Duties include but not limited to tree and brush removal using chainsaws, brush cutters, other machinery, and hand labor; invasive species control using herbicide, hand labor, and other tools; implementation of prescribed fire as part of a crew; trail maintenance and sustainability; fence construction and removal; native seed collection by hand labor or machine. Work duties are generally performed outdoors and in inclement weather. Job duties require a considerable amount of physical activity, including walking, standing, kneeling, crouching, reaching, stooping and climbing.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Assist with the management of county parks including ecological restoration, habitat management, general maintenance and public relations.

Assist with implementation of prescribed fire.

Perform road and trail maintenance duties such as storm clean-up, tree cutting, erosion control, blading and filling holes.

Perform routine building maintenance and clean work area on a daily basis.

Assist with facilities construction and improvements.

Assist with the development and presentation of educational programs, projects, and events that promote conservation ethics, and natural resource appreciation.

Perform other functions as directed or as the situation dictates.

ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE AND ABILITY

General knowledge of and/or ability to learn principles of conservation, wildlife, and fish management and natural resource preservation.

General knowledge and/or ability to learn the safe operation and maintenance of both manual and power tools and equipment used in maintenance and repair tasks.

General knowledge of routine maintenance and repair to equipment, grounds, and facilities.

General knowledge of various outdoor recreational activities, such as boating, hiking, camping, hunting, fishing and canoeing.

Ability to understand and follow both oral and written instructions.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, fellow employees, various civic organizations, and the general public.

General knowledge of and/or ability to learn plant identification (grasses, forbs, trees, and invasive species).

General knowledge of and/or ability to learn proficiency with chainsaw operations, tree felling and safety.

Ability to work in a variety of extreme environments (inclement weather, extreme temperatures, hazardous terrain, brambles, insects, full sun, etc.).

Ability to perform strenuous physical labor for extended periods.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Be willing to become a certified wildland firefighter (S-130/190).

ESSENTIAL EDUCATION, CERTIFICATION AND/OR LICENSES

Must have a valid driver’s license and maintain it throughout the course of employment. Must have a good driving record.

The incumbent cannot have been convicted of a felony in the past 2 years.

A degree in Environmental Science, Biology, Ecology, or any related field is preferred.

CPR and basic first aid certification is preferred.