Job Tag: Conservation

The Plant Health Care Team are specialists dedicated to inspecting plant material, identifying problems, and ethically treating or preventing the many problems that trees and shrubs may face. They are our team of “detectives”; looking at each plant disease/infestation as a puzzle they can’t wait to solve. This role provides the opportunity to work outside and visit beautiful properties in your community.

What a day is like:

The Plant Health Care focus is on ensuring the health and well being of trees and shrubs on a clients’ landscape in a specific territory. This involves monitoring, diagnosing, and treating any pest and/or disease infestations occurring on the property. Plant Health Care is responsible for selecting the most appropriate product or treatment for each problem. Additional activities include interacting with our clients, educating them with written diagnostic reports detailing the conditions on their landscape, as well as ensuring complete customer satisfaction.

What kind of person are we looking for:

A desire to grow, craves opportunity, loves problem solving and process improvement
A Degree in Arboriculture, Urban Forestry, Horticulture, Plant Science, Plant Pathology, Environmental Sciences, Landscape Management, Turf-grass, or similar experience preferred.
The responsibility and independence to work autonomously
Excellent listening, verbal and written communication skills to understand and meet client needs

A willingness to learn:

Tree/Plant Identification
How to safely and properly use spray and application equipment

What is essential:

Willingness to complete required trainings to obtain needed certifications & licenses.
Desire to work outdoors
Valid Driver’s license to operate service-line vehicles
Must be authorized to work lawfully in the U.S.

Why you might love working here:

We have lots of training and development opportunities and support continuing education in the industry
The opportunity to work alongside some of the best trained and equipped teams in the industry, with an emphasis on quality and safety
We’re collaborative, so team members have the ability to connect and collaborate with people who are experts in the field
We offer a competitive salary and benefits, including health and dental, paid time off, and a matched 401(K)

Physical demands of this role:

These physical demands described must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of the job, the employee is subject to frequently lift and/or move up to fifty (50) pounds.

American Bird Conservancy (ABC) is the Western Hemisphere’s bird conservation specialist — the only organization with a single and steadfast commitment to achieving conservation results for birds and their habitats throughout the Americas.

We are currently looking for a motivated, self-starting, and detail-oriented individual with southwestern riparian habitats and their bird conservation needs to reach out to private landowners to promote voluntary conservation actions that benefit riparian birds in southern California.

This individual will reach out effectively to private landowners, and work with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and other local partners in southern California to implement voluntary conservation and management practices on private lands to benefit Southwestern Willow Flycatcher (SWFL), Yellow-billed Cuckoo (YBCU), Least Bells’ Vireo (LBVI) and other wildlife associated with riparian habitat through the NRCS’s Working Lands for Wildlife (WLFW) program and the Declining Species Habitat Initiative.

Primary Duties:

Provide increased outreach capacity to accelerate the NRCS WLFW program that targets SWFL, YBCU, LBVI and southwest riparian ecosystems in southern California.
Give technical assistance to landowners to address wildlife habitat natural resource concerns. Technical assistance includes landowner consultation, on-site visits, evaluating and identifying wildlife resource concerns, assistance in developing conservation plans for multiple land uses, designing practices, assisting with project implementation, and monitoring results
Provide information about NRCS programs and develop conservation plans and contracts.
Establish an active and productive relationship the NRCS Leadership and staff.
Work with key landowners and managers to develop watershed-level conservation and management strategies that benefit southwestern-dependent riparian birds in southern California.
Use assessments to identify the highest priority riparian habitat areas for the SWFL, YBCU, LBVI and other high priority riparian dependent birds and wildlife.
Identify the most promising landowners and producers and develop an outreach program to connect with them. (This will include working with NRCS GIS specialists to identify priority properties and landownership.)
Work with NRCS staff to develop a tool-kit of Best Management Practices (BMPs) and appropriate NRCS practices that will benefit the target species within the WLFW framework.
Develop and coordinate an outreach campaign to priority landowners and land managers, in coordination with NRCS staff and other partners. Include outreach workshops, potentially in partnership with federal, state, and NGOs entities. Target outreach efforts toward private landowners, landowner associations, as well as key land managers (both agency and NGOs) within the watershed and provide information on maintaining riparian areas (e.g. invasive plant and pest management, irrigation water management, livestock grazing practices etc.) and promoting WLFW program goals.
Facilitate communication and coordination with various partners involved with watershed-level strategies (i.e. Weed Management Areas would be a great opportunity to initiate those relationships).
Meet with landowners and provide technical assistance to them to promote Working Lands for Wildlife and other Farm Bill Program opportunities. This includes biological ad technical assistance, facilitation through the NRCS contracting process, development of site-specific conservation plans, and meeting NRCS practice standards and SW riparian BMP’s.
In coordination with NRCS staff, develop conservation plans for private landowners, including practices specifications, to establish potential projects in priority areas for southwestern riparian bird restoration.
Assist with compliance of the NRCS SWFL Programmatic Biological Opinion and ensure that technical service provided comply with all applicable Federal, State, Tribal, and Local laws and requirements, and meet applicable USDA-NRCS standards.
Ensure conservation plans and agreements implemented on the ground to improve and enhance riparian habitat and benefit SWFL, YBCU, LBVI and other wildlife.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree or higher in ornithology, wildlife management or environmental sciences, with an emphasis on riparian habitat management and restoration is required. A deep understanding of riparian habitat improvement and management, wildlife management, and bird conservation desired.
Professional knowledge and skills to assess, devise, and apply strategies for riparian habitat management to meet desired wildlife habitat objectives. Experience developing and implementing site-specific riparian restoration and management plans/practices, and the ability to utilize riparian bird inventory tools/inventory protocols needed.
Willing and able to travel across southern California. Applicant should be prepared to spend as much as 20% of their time away from home. ABC covers travel expenses.
Experience working with private landowners as well as public agencies (NRCS, DNR, USFWS, etc.) and knowledge of landowner incentive programs desired.
Knowledge of NRCS landowner cost-share programs (such as WLFW, EQIP) is preferred.
A general knowledge of environment laws, regulations and policies to ensure legal standards are met in formulation of habitat development and restoration activities.
Proven ability to manage multiple projects, produce effective results and meet deadlines.
Proven ability to be self-motivated, responsible and solve problems. Applicant must be able to develop and manage their daily work schedule to achieve results.
Ability to use ArcGIS, Google Maps and Microsoft Excel and Database to manage information.
The position requires excellent networking and communication skills (presentation, inter-personal, reading, and writing); project management experience, and organizing and leadership skills.
Applicant should be a team player and work well independently.
Willing and able to work in physically challenging environment under adverse conditions.
This position may be required to participate in specific NRCS training programs in order to use partner facilities and equipment.
Applicant must have a valid driver’s license.
Background screening required
Authorized to work in the U.S., Citizen or Permanent Resident

ANRA is seeking a motivated individual to join our team in the role of Clean Rivers Program Coordinator. This position combines science, the outdoors, a strong interest in preserving the natural environment, and more. You will be responsible for coordinating the activities of the River Authority’s Clean Rivers Program, including environmental monitoring of rivers, lakes, and streams, data analyses, evaluation, and reporting, and assisting with organization of events to promote environmental awareness such as volunteer stream cleanups, the annual Neches River Rendezvous, and public meetings related to surface water quality in the Neches River Basin.

Ideal candidates will exhibit excellent organizational and communication skills, attention to detail and correctness, thrive in an outdoor setting, be comfortable on and in the water, and will be capable of transporting, launching, and operating watercraft.

Primary Duties:

Coordinate ANRA field monitoring activities and supervise field technicians and/or interns. Develop a coordinated monitoring schedule for the Upper Neches River Basin and actively participate in the annual coordinated monitoring meetings

Coordinate data collection activities and incorporate into the ArcView GIS database for the watershed inventories and spatial analysis. Develop GIS maps for monitoring plans, reports, ANRA web page, meetings and presentations.

Review and analyze current and historical water quality data including chemical, biological and hydrological data. Compose technical reports of evaluated data points as needed.

Manage the Upper Neches River Basin water quality data for inclusion in the Upper Neches River Basin Surface Water Quality Monitoring Database.

Maintain ANRA data clearinghouse including the on-line water quality database (web page), watershed inventories, data inquiries, and data inclusions from other data collection sources.

Coordinate ANRA public participation and outreach activities to include the volunteer monitoring program, public presentations, and ANRA exhibits.

Prepare quarterly task reports, Basin Highlight Reports, and Basin Summary reports.

Act as the Watershed Coordinator for all ANRA implemented Watershed Protection Plans (WPP).

Identify and secure funding for new WPPs and implementation of portions of existing WPPs.

Desired Qualifications:

Enthusiasm for working in the outdoors, and the ability to relate well with people of all ages

Bachelor’s in environmental science, biology, chemistry or other relevant field and/or at least three years working in a related environmental setting

Excellent verbal and written communication skills, observation skills, and evaluative skills

Warm enthusiastic demeanor, outgoing personality, able to interact with people of all ages

Prior experience writing technical and/or research findings and reports

Capability to plan/coordinate the various aspects of monitoring activities

Ability to manage projects, partnerships and professional relationships

An ability to manage multiple projects and tasks concurrently, accomplishing long term goals by achieving short term strategies and objectives

Ability to work closely with others in both a public office and field environment, provide project administrative duties as needed, and conduct outreach and educational activities

Adaptable and willing to take on other job assignments

Willingness to receive additional training to enhance knowledge and skills

The mission of the Virginia Institute of Marine Science and William & Mary’s Batten School of Coastal and Marine Sciences is to seek and broadly communicate knowledge in marine and coastal science to the Commonwealth of Virginia, the nation, and the world through research, education, and advisory service.

The Eastern Shore Laboratory objective is to conduct research, education and advisory activity in coastal marine science.

The Laboratory and Field Summer Intern position is located at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science’s Eastern Shore Laboratory in Wachapreague, VA. This position requires the incumbent to be actively enrolled in a high school, college or university degree program. This position also requires the incumbent’s primary residence to be located in Accomack or Northampton County, Virginia.

The Laboratory and Field Summer Intern position assists with ongoing research projects.

The responsibilities include:

Assists with field and lab data collection
Assists with sample collection and transport
Prepares and cleans up field and lab equipment
Assists with maintenance and care of laboratory facilities

Required Qualifications:

EDUCATION:
At least a rising high school senior, currently enrolled in an academic program.

COMPETENCIES:

An interest in science
Basic proficiency in a variety of computer software applications
Good communication skills
Ability to follow instructions

Summary:

This position assists the Conservationist in the implementation of the Langlade County Land & Water Resource Management Plan, with a particular focus on providing conservation education and water-related information and guidance to county visitors and residents.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily and in a timely manner. The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required or assigned.

Provide land and water conservation-related education opportunities to youth and adults.
Update and coordinate the distribution of land conservation educational materials.
Maintain Land Conservation Department Website.
Provide technical assistance and education to property owners for the development of shoreland restoration and improvement plans. Make recommendations and assist with the preparation of plans.
Assist the County Conservationist in completion of their duties including, but not limited to:
Administering the Farmland Preservation Program, Nutrient Management Program;
Abatement of aquatic and terrestrial invasive species.
Representing the county at meetings, trainings, and other events.
Prepare ordinance violation/complaint reports and documents for legal action; coordinating with other departments & organizations as necessary.
Ordinance development & review.
Drafting/submitting grant applications
Perform Conservation Technician’s duties in their absence.

Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and/or Experience:

Associate’s Degree in Natural Resource Management, Land Use Planning, Environmental Health or closely related field, or work experience in land use, regulatory issues, planning and zoning or related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities.
Valid driver’s license.

General Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Knowledge of native plants (identification, characteristics, and planting methods).
Knowledge of principles of soil and water conservation practices and technical assistance needs to design these practices which include identification and use of natural vegetation and erosion control techniques, multiple-use land management, land surveying, GIS, computers, and the use of aerial photos.
Ability to develop conservation plans with landowners as well as survey, design, and inspect construction of conservation practices.
Ability to work with limited daily supervision and make accurate, rapid, and independent decisions regarding work priorities and duties.
Skilled organizer; demonstrating high level of maturity, self-direction, and motivation. (Required)
Working knowledge of local, county, state and federal zoning, building, and land use laws.
Working knowledge of legal land descriptions, soils, land use, land and water.
Ability to obtain and interpret facts gathered through inspections and research.
Ability to prepare and maintain records and reports (compare, count, differentiate, measure and/or sort, assemble, copy, record, and transcribe data/information).
Ability to provide testimony at public hearings.
Skilled in oral and written communication (e.g. persuasion, training, interpretation) with the public and partners.
Ability to advise and interpret how to apply policies, procedures and standards to specific situations.
Ability to gather, interpret, and analyze data and information (e.g. technical standards, engineering plans, state administrative codes, state statutes, soil data/test reports, county ordinances, soil/wetland/flood plain/topographic/plat maps, aerial/site photos, tax parcel receipts, meeting agenda and minutes, complaint forms, zoning citations, zoning handbooks, construction site handbooks, computer software operating manuals, engineering manuals, etc.) using established criteria to determine consequences/outcomes and to identify and select alternatives.
Ability to exercise the judgment, decisiveness and creativity required in situations involving the evaluation of information against sensory and/or judgmental criteria.
Ability to use functional reasoning in performing influence functions such as supervising, managing, leading, teaching, directing, and controlling.
Skilled in conflict resolution to solve issues and problems relating to code violations (diplomacy, persuasion, foresight, fairness).
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with: department staff; County Board Supervisors; town officials; attorneys; surveyors; land developers; landowners; state agency staff (DATCP, DNR, DOT); engineers; and the general public.
Ability to operate, maneuver and/or steer equipment and machinery requiring simple but continuous adjustments, such as motor vehicle, computer, telephone, level, auger, shovel and measuring tape.

Technological Qualifications:

Knowledge Windows and Microsoft Office Suite.
Knowledge of AutoCAD design software (preferred).
Knowledge of database software such as: LandNAV/Catalis; Excel; SnapPlus; Access; AS-400 records systems (preferred).

The successful candidate will coordinate all sampling events and be responsible for responding to all environmental violations received by county inspectors. The position requires knowledge of water sampling techniques and instrumentation including data sondes. In addition, knowledge of wet chemistry techniques to obtain turbidity results in a turbidity meter and to determine pH levels is required.

The candidate must be able to prepare reports and assist in evaluating environmental violations to make recommendations and provide support to inspectors during the investigation. The candidate must have excellent communication and writing skills to complete internal audits and write Standard Operating Procedures for field sampling and field instrumentation procedures.

The position is required to train other field personnel in sampling techniques in accordance with accreditation or state mandate requirements. In addition, the candidate will participate in presentations to schools and other members of the public to publicize environmental programs. Proficient in the use of LIMS (Laboratory Information Management System) for creating routes, new projects, and labels are preferred. Experienced working under a NELAP certified laboratory is highly desirable. This position has emergency responsibilities to support the Resilient Environment Department in times of emergency activation.

General Description

Performs professional environmental work enforcing the provisions of environmental ordinances as well as participates in natural resource enhancement and protection efforts.

Works under general supervision, independently developing work methods and sequences.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:

Requires a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in chemistry, geology, biology or environmental science or closely related field.

Requires six (6) months experience in natural resource protection based on area of assignment or closely related experience.

JOB SUMMARY:

Under the supervision and direction of the Superintendent of Parks and the Park Forester, the Park Maintenance & Forestry Assistant is responsible for performing a variety of park maintenance duties depending on the time of year. Duties may include, general park and trail maintenance, assisting with basic tree care including planting, watering, pruning and removal, monitoring tree inventories, ongoing ecological restoration with invasive plant control, landscape bed maintenance, assisting with snow removal and monitoring ice surfaces, and other park maintenance projects. May also assist with special event set up and take down. The individual must be able to work well independently with minimal supervision, as well as effectively on a crew. Prior experience driving a truck and operating landscaping equipment (including mowers, chippers, string trimmers, chainsaws, stump grinders, and other hand tools), is highly desired. The individual must be able to perform labor-intensive tasks such as dragging brush, planting large-diameter trees, and participating in large scale restoration projects in varied weather conditions. An IL Pesticide license is preferred and a C-class driver’s license for driving a truck with a trailer. Occasional weekend and evening work may be requested if available. This is an at-will position.

Hours: Generally, Monday – Friday 7:00am – 3:30 pm. Flexible with days and time, within this timeframe. Average of 28 hours per week year-round with reduced hours during the winter and more hours during the spring and summer based on the needs of the department and District.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, AND TRAINING:

The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, have previous maintenance experience and demonstrate a strong interest in park operations and arboriculture.
A minimum of two years of experience performing landscaping, horticultural, conservation, or tree-related activities is preferred.
Knowledge of common Midwest tree and shrub species, as well as native grasses and forbs.
Experience and comfort using various landscaping tools and equipment such as mowers, chainsaws, chippers, etc.
Possess or obtain a valid IL Pesticide Operator license within three months of hire.
A valid IL driver’s license is required with Class C designation or ability to obtain within three months of hire. Familiarity with the Glen Ellyn area is helpful.
Must be in good physical condition to perform manual labor with prolonged walking and/or standing, and the ability to lift, move or carry up to 50 lbs. regularly.
Majority of work is outdoors in all weather conditions.
The individual must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Ability to effectively communicate with the public, patrons, volunteers, and partners and provide quality customer service.
A degree in or currently pursuing environmental science, biology, or related training or certifications is preferred but not required.
Must consistently arrive on time and maintain a reliable work schedule.
Experience working with and/or directing seasonal staff or volunteers is a plus.
Will be required to pass a post-offer criminal background check.

This position provides support to the Open Space & Stewardship Director for the management of the community forest and open spaces in the Township of Montgomery. This position plays a significant role in the management of Township lands (passive parkland, open space, agricultural lands, pathways) by overseeing the development of stewardship plans, implementing ecological restoration and conducting monitoring efforts. Specifically, this individual will assist in preparation and execution of stewardship plans including reforestation efforts, invasive species management, meadow management, construction/clearing of pathways and other improvement projects on Township properties. The work requires independent judgment and initiative and is performed with departmental and horticultural guidelines in coordination with the Parks/Recreation Department, Open Space Committee and Shade Tree Committee.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

Complete planting, pruning, maintenance needs, felling, cabling, disease/pest treatment, chemical treatment in parks, the Montgomery Arboretum of Native Flora, open space areas including along pathways, street trees, and forested land owned by the Township
Implement plans, strategies, and programs to preserve and increase community forest canopy and to manage invasive plants
Consult with the Shade Tree Committee regarding planting, pruning and maintenance of trees and shrubs in the Arboretum and in parks
Operate grounds maintenance equipment (e.g. lawnmowers, chainsaws), power tools, hand saws, etc.
Maintain trails, picnic areas, and other passive use recreation areas and amenities
Construct trails; monitor ongoing maintenance needs
Execute stewardship plans for open space properties
Plan and execute reforestation and restoration projects
Conduct monitoring of Township-owned lands
Attend meetings, conferences, workshops, training sessions and reviews publications and audio-visual materials to become and remain current on the principles, practices and new developments in assigned work areas
Interact with the public and other Township departments

Respond to emergency calls during snow/ice storms, wind and rainstorms

Required Key Technical Skills and Knowledge:
Skills in using tools and equipment necessary to execute the above duties
Ability to read surveys & maps to identify property boundaries

Desired Skills and Knowledge:

Horticulture: particularly ability to identify native plants (especially in Climate Zones 6-7) and invasive species
ANSI A300 standards relating to tree pruning, chemical treatment, planting site analysis and tree identification as it relates to urban forestry in Climate Zones 6-7
ANSI Z133 safety standard relating to tree removal
Safe work procedures including traffic safety principles

Required Education, Certification, License:

HS Diploma or equivalent
Valid NJ Driver’s License
Commercial Driver’s License or willingness to fulfill requirement w/in 12 months

Desired Education, Certification, License:

Tree Care Industry Association Electrical Hazard Awareness Program certification
New Jersey Commercial Pesticide Applicator License

This is a Full Time Supervisory position, 40 hours per week, Monday – Friday 7:00 am – 3:30 pm; Starting Salary of $59, 071 per year; salary commensurate with experience

Job Summary
Performs horticulture practices to maintain and care for the large collection of trees, shrubs, groundcovers, flowers, and ornamental plants. Duties include planting, pruning, spraying for pests, applying fertilizers, mixing soils, and identifying plant problems. Acts as lead worker to lower-level employees engaged in plant and lawn care. Advises the public on horticulture-related inquiries. Work is performed under moderate supervision and is reviewed while in progress and upon completion through observations, discussions, and results obtained. Work is performed outdoors and incumbent is exposed to weather conditions and insects.

Minimum Qualifications:

Associate’s Degree in Horticulture or related field and one (1) year of experience in horticulture or related field; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Valid Florida Class D License required. Florida Pesticide Application License required within ninety (90) days of employment.

The Department of Conservation and Recreation manages one of the largest and most diverse state parks systems in the nation and protects and enhances natural resources and outdoor recreational opportunities throughout Massachusetts. The DCR system includes over 450,000 acres of parks, forests, water supply protection lands, beaches, lakes, ponds, playgrounds, swimming pools, golf courses, skating rinks, trails and parkways.

The Department of Conservation and Recreation seeks applicants for the position of Seasonal Conservation Biologist I.

This position collects, analyzes, and reviews biological data through field, and literature work on endangered and threatened species and other features of biological diversity; provides technical assistance and information to public and/or private groups; helps the agency in maintaining liaison with various public and private agencies; and performs related work as required.

The basic purpose of this work is providing professional scientific services regarding the biological monitoring and the protection and management of the state’s endangered and threatened species plants and animals and their habitats.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities:

Analyzes data variety of sources on declining species to assess population trends or to make management recommendations regarding courses of action for the protection and management of these species.

Collects and reviews biological data through field investigations to obtain information relative to population trends and environmental impacts in order to make appropriate recommendations.

Provides technical assistance and information on such matters as species and habitat conservation, management and research to various local, state and federal agencies and the scientific community.

Maintains liaison with various private, local, state and federal agencies and others in order to exchange information or to resolve problems related to the maintenance of biological diversity and ecosystem function

Performs related duties such as preparing general and technical reports and memoranda; preparing correspondence; and maintaining data and other scientific records.

Specific duties for WBNERR:

conduct field surveys to monitor permanent salt marsh plots for elevation, plant communities, and invertebrate populations;

using GPS and other field survey equipment, locate plots and re-establish markers;

enter data and conduct preliminary quality checks;
assist with marsh surface elevation and sediment accretion data collection

deploy, retrieve, and maintain data from autonomous loggers.

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS:

Applicants must have at least (A) two years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, professional, paraprofessional or technical experience in work involving the protection, preservation and/or management of endangered and protected species, or (B) any equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below.

Substitutions:

I. A Bachelor’s or higher degree with a major in zoology, botany, ornithology or herpetology, may be substituted for the required experience on the basis of two years of education for one year of experience.*

*Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Based on assignment, possession of a current and valid Massachusetts Class D Motor Vehicle Operator’s license may be required