Working Lands & Nursery Conservation Specialist

Essex County NRCD seeks a Working Lands & Nursery Conservation Specialist to be based out of our office in Brunswick, Vermont who is self-motivated, organized, creative, and excited to build community with agricultural producers and conservation organizations in Essex County. The position will focus on carrying out Essex County NRCD’s working lands programming and managing the District’s conservation nursery. The ideal candidate will be motivated to take on the strategic and financial planning of these two District programs over time, with support and training from the District Manager.

Half of this position will focus on working lands outreach, education, and technical assistance in Essex County. You will work one-on-one and in group settings with District farmers and foresters to improve natural resource management on their properties. This may include maintaining nutrient management plans (NMPs), collecting soil, manure, and crop samples, planning educational workshops, providing land management advice, and helping land managers apply for state and federal cost share programs. You will also work with partners to implement habitat and watershed restoration work. This position is grant-funded and is under the general supervision of the ECNRCD District Manager. For the right candidate, the expectation is that eventually this position will have broad latitude to direct ECNRCD’s working lands programming in response to available funding and the needs of local producers, with support and input from the District Manager.

The other portion of this position will focus on managing ECNRCD’s conservation nursery. You will work to collect native tree seed, grow seedlings from seed to harvest, maintain nursery facilities, fulfill tree orders, and expand the nursery’s capacity for tree output. You will work with a group of local and statewide organizations to ensure tree production meets restoration and agroforestry needs. Training in nursery management will be available for motivated candidates. This portion of the position is grant funded for several years, with the intention that it will be supported by tree sales after that time. The ideal candidate will be interested in eventually taking on the financial management of the nursery in addition to physical duties of tree production.

This position includes a seasonal mix of computer-based and field work. Computer work may include long periods sitting, typing, and reading from a computer screen, while field work may include extended periods of physical exertion. Candidates should expect to work according to the direction of the District Manager for approximately a year, with additional managerial duties and independence taken on over time.

Properties Manager

Norman Bird Sanctuary in Middletown, Rhode Island welcomes 20,000 visitors each year to our 300-acre campus and 7 miles of hiking trails. In the 70 years since our founding, the property in our care has grown to include thriving wildlife habitats from grasslands, forests, rocky ridges, salt marsh, and dunes to sandy beach. Our facilities include a welcome center, an upgraded historic barn and farmhouse, an artist’s studio, several classrooms and a coastal education center. Visitors of all ages and backgrounds explore the main campus and trails and participate in hundreds of educational programs throughout the year.

With a fun and team-oriented staff, a highly-engaged board of directors, and an operating budget of over $1 million, we work to fulfill the mission of our founder, Mabel Norman Cerio, who created Norman Bird Sanctuary through a bequest in 1949. Our mission is to protect and steward the diverse habitats in our care, while providing opportunities for people from all walks of life to learn from and enjoy the largest contiguous open space on Aquidneck Island.

About the Position

Work in concert with the Director of Horticulture to plan and perform the day-to-day maintenance, stewardship, and conservation of the Norman Bird Sanctuary buildings, grounds, and habitats.
Implement seasonal maintenance plans, management plans, and Strategic Plan objectives for property and building stewardship or as directed.
Assist the Director of Horticulture with general coordination and supervision of part-time/seasonal staff and volunteers.
Support habitat protection and visitor experience, safety, and services through trail monitoring, capital asset management, wildlife camera maintenance, and ensuring clean and functioning facilities.
Work under the direction of the Director of Horticulture to develop budgets and work plans, implement special projects, and volunteer opportunities.
Project tracking: Monitor and report field results including weekly work logs, trail log updates, photo documentation, and preparation of project reports.
Habitat restoration: Tree and shrub planting, invasive removal, and field restoration.
Trail Maintenance:Mowing, weed-whacking, weeding, brush cutting, and stone wall clearing and rebuilding.
Mechanical maintenance and overall upkeep and organization of equipment and tools associated with trail maintenance.
Building Maintenance: Painting, light carpentry, cleaning/sanitizing, and general repairs. Keep the eleven buildings in pristine condition. (Includes garbage removal, restroom and compost toilet cleanings/rakings)
Data organization: Manipulate, interpret, collect, and enter data into the invasive species management database. Record all stewardship activities into specific formats.
Events and Programs: Support special events and other significant programs with set-up, clean-up, coordination, and execution.
May be required to work on weekends and/or evenings to attend meetings, participate in or lead programs, attend workshops and/or programs, and/or to set up/break down events (including chair placement, drinks supplies, etc).
Support the annual set up of Harvest Fairgrounds and parking, hay requirement needs, weekend oversight and breakdown.
Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Bachelor or Associate Degree in Natural Resource Management, Environmental Science, Arboriculture, Horticulture, or other related field.
A minimum of three years professional experience associated with the responsibilities of the position.
Excellent “people skillsâ€ to lead, inspire, motivate and work cooperatively and harmoniously with fellow employees, volunteers, committees, members, and the public.
Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively as a team member.
Proven ability to complete assigned tasks and projects, meet deadlines, and manage multiple tasks.
Excellent written and oral communications skills.
Basic computer skills in MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
Experience using GIS and GPS to map natural features is preferred.
Familiarity with Rhode Island flora and fauna is preferred.
The ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
The ability to operate a tractor and similar large equipment.
Experience using a chainsaw, weed-whacker, hedge trimmer and other small power tools.
The ability to lift up to 50 pounds, push and pull heavy objects, and climb ladders is required.
The ability to paint and perform light carpentry is required.
Strong commitment to the mission of the Norman Bird Sanctuary.
Valid driver’s license required for driving Sanctuary vehicles.
Background check required.

Position Details

This is a full-time position, 40 hours per week (8 am to 4 pm), Monday through Friday. Occasionally requires evening and weekend work. The position is at-will, salaried, with full benefits. The salary is commensurate with experience.

Conservation Horticulturist

The Atlanta Botanical Garden is seeking candidates to fill the position of Conservation Horticulturist. Responsible for the assistance of daily management and curation of the Garden’s Conservation Safeguarding Nursery (CSN) conservation collections located in Gainesville, GA, this position reports to the Conservation Safeguarding Nursery Coordinator. The successful candidate will be responsible for supporting the curation of the ex situ conservation collections of rare and endangered plants and helping to ensure the nursery’s physical structures and systems operate efficiently and effectively. This position is based full-time in Gainesville, GA but requires occasional trips to the Atlanta Botanical Garden’s Midtown Atlanta location, and some occasional travel to field sites.

Requirements

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Conservation Collections Maintenance and Management– Daily maintenance and grounds management of the nursery; watering; weeding; pruning; planting and other daily horticultural tasks required to maintain the 6+ acre site. Ability to construct or repair irrigation systems utilizing hand tools and power tools. Support and perform daily nursery duties during absences of supervisor. Following established watering, weeding, and pest control protocol. Assists with Greenhouse production and operation, including weed and pest management, watering, and organizing plants. Support ABG Midtown Conservation staff during absences and with larger projects.
Collections Management and Plant Curation– Knowledge of plant collection management including plant accessioning and labeling is desired. This position supports the tracking of all plants entering and leaving the nursery, and coordinates with the CSN Manager and Conservation Database Coordinator to maintain a current inventory of all nursery plants and accessions. Aids the CSN Manager in working with the Conservation Horticulture Manager to develop and implement a 5-year Conservation Safeguarding Nursery Curatorial plan.
Collection Development and Fieldwork – Work closely with the Conservation and Research team. Occasional field work ~1 day a month during the field season; work may include bog workdays, invasive species management, seed collection trips, plant population mapping, brush clearing and the reintroduction of plants back into the wild habitat. Field work may occasionally require periods away from home and is often physically demanding.
Volunteer and Intern Leadership- Support the supervision of conservation-focused projects of undergraduate researchers/interns. Provide assistance to the CSN Manager in training and scheduling volunteers and seasonal interns at the nursery, and in offering opportunities for off-site volunteer activities with the Conservation and Research department.

QUALIFICATIONS:

B.S in Horticulture, Plant Biology, or related field required and/or 1-3+ years experience in Botanical Garden plant collections management is highly desirable.
Collections Management – Experience in data management including labeling and GIS mapping.
Plant Health – Sound knowledge in the identification and management of plant health issues including IPM, diseases and plant nutrition.
Plant Knowledge – A good working knowledge of rare plants native to the S.E. USA.; ability to utilize dichotomous keys to identify plants in the field.
Ecology – A knowledge/interest in native wetlands and their ecology.
Independent worker who is able to self-motivate and complete daily tasks without supervision.
Must be able to work outside in extreme hot and cold weather conditions.
Must have a valid Georgia driver’s license and good driving record.
Must be willing to drive between Atlanta and Gainesville 1-3 times per month.
Ability to use power tools for basic construction or willingness to learn- including building beds and general repairs.
Horticultural flexibility- weekend and holiday work may be required during the growing season to assure the health of plant collections.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to spend long hours working outside year-around in a wide range of weather and temperature extremes.
Close attention to plant health, ability to think through and innovatively design resolutions to design and growing challenges.
Work independently and alone for many hours, supported by part time technicians, undergraduate interns, and community volunteers.
Ability to lift 50lbs and work in strenuous conditions.

MENTAL REQUIREMENTS:

Excellent organizational and time management skills.
Ability to effectively respond to multiple, changing and often conflicting priorities is essential.
Must be able to effectively interact with the general public and co-workers and peer professionals.

Seasonal Assistant Director

Maine Audubon is hiring a Seasonal Assistant Director to join our dynamic team at the Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center. Maine Audubon’s mission is to conserve Maine’s wildlife and wildlife habitat by engaging people in education, conservation, and action.

Since 1972, Maine Audubon has partnered with the State of Maine to operate the Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center. The 3,100-acre estuary known as Scarborough Marsh is the largest salt marsh in the state, comprising tidal marsh, salt creeks, freshwater marsh, and uplands. The marsh is particularly important for wildlife as a resting, breeding, and feeding ground. Each year thousands of visitors to the center begin their marsh exploration (by foot, canoe, or kayak), learn more about the marsh, and discover Maine Audubon and its mission. The center also offers a variety of naturalist-guided and self-guided tours, as well as exhibits, programs, a nature trail, canoe/kayak rentals, and a Maine Audubon Nature Store.

Position Overview

We are seeking a Seasonal Assistant Director at our Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center, who reports to the Scarborough Marsh Director. In the spring, this position entails leading school groups in nature explorations on salt marsh ecology, scheduling and overseeing volunteers, and preparing for summer programs. Once school is over, the responsibilities of this position shift and focus on the delivery of public programs about salt marsh ecology through nature walks, canoe tours, and other programs. In partnership with the Director, this position will share responsibilities for greeting the public and maintaining the Center itself.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Provide a welcoming environment for all Maine Audubon visitors
Lead educational programming on a variety of marsh-related natural history topics, both on foot and via canoe, for children and members of the public
Serve as a knowledgeable, friendly, and retail-savvy staff member
Operate a point of sale (POS) system including making sales and processing payments
Manage other staff and volunteers of all ages
Assist customers with boat rentals – with sign-ups inside, and outside with the boats
Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

Sincere interest in saltwater marsh ecology, public education, and the Maine Audubon mission
Knowledge of basic natural history and ecological concepts
Experience working with children
Able to use a computer-based point of sale (POS) system
Able to handle cash and receipts accurately
Friendly, high energy, and good sense of humor
Able to take direction but also work independently
Comfortable communicating with a wide variety of individuals and groups, including adult and teen volunteers
Willingness to work outdoors in challenging environmental conditions
Comfortable operating canoes, including lifting and paddling against wind and current
Attentive to details yet also able to multi-task
CPR and First Aid certification a plus
Multi-lingual applicants a plus
Must be able to pass a background check

Southwest Idaho Landscape Forestry Technician

National Forest Foundation (NFF) are pleased to offer a temporary position, up to 40 hours per week, from May 15, 2024 to October 25, 2024 as a member of a small integrated vegetation management crew focusing on fuels management (up to 5 crew members) on the Payette National Forest in Central Idaho.

About the NFF: The NFF works with communities and organizations to conserve and enhance the watersheds, wildlife habitat, wild places, and recreational opportunities across the 193-million-acre National Forest System. The NFF seeks to engage all Americans in this work.

Position Function: Under direction of the NFF Intermountain Region Program Manager, the Forest Technician(s) shall conduct pre-and post-treatment surveys/monitoring on non-commercial, commercial, and prescribed fire project areas. Non-commercial thinning stand layout, ground truthing lidar data, non-commercial stand diagnosis, and vegetation survey implementation will all be key duties of this position.

The Payette Program Coordinator is also expected to work closely with Forest Service staff as an integrated team member to provide support and technical assistance for vegetation management projects and a variety of other activities associated with advancing the goals of the Southwest Idaho Landscape (SIL).

Position Duties and Responsibilities: 

Southwest Idaho Landscape Forestry Technician will:

  • Support NFF SIL Staff to coordinate and manage forest-related restoration efforts, to include monitoring of on-the-ground project implementation on behalf of NFF.
  • Conduct routine data collection, monitoring of prescriptive and contractual specifications for the felling of trees, collection of dead and down fuels and removal through helicopter yarding.
  • Technicians will be comfortable using Survey123 or FieldMaps to complete survey protocols and to input stand/project level data.
  • Implement survey protocols as they are assigned by Fuels Managers and Silviculturists with the USFS.
  • Plot data will be entered on field data forms and/or online databases. Written data will be entered into an Excel spreadsheet and emailed to NFF Representative along with a general project status update. Original hard copy data forms shall be compiled and submitted on a weekly basis, as possible.
  • Daily plans shall be coordinated at least 24 hours in advance with NFF Representative and daily with operations to ensure preparation or implementation operations allow for safety as a priority.
  • Compile and analyze forest stand and fuels data as needed to provide effective project and contract monitoring QA/QC.
  • Report on project statistics and progress, outcomes, and deliverables of forest restoration projects.
  • Assist in Rx fire line preparation as needed.
  • Assist with Common Stand Exam surveys as needed.
  • Assist with the Wood for Life firewood program as needed.
  • Adhere to and monitor project safety protocol.
  • Represent the NFF professionally with all audiences.

Location: McCall/Cascade/Council/New Meadows ID area (Mandatory). Work will occur on multiple project areas within the Payette National Forest. While rare, travel to other forests may occasionally be necessary to aid other NFF efforts and may include the Boise or Sawtooth National Forests.

Compensation: Southwest Idaho Landscape Forestry Technician will be paid $22.12 / hour working 40 hours a week. Optional bunk housing will be provided at the Payette National Forest headquarters in McCall.

To Apply: Applicants must include both a cover letter and resume. Incomplete packages will not be considered. Position is open until filled. Please visit our careers site to apply online.  Apply link: https://www.click2apply.net/jjVdXDTVZWe6yfrJzCAqmA

The National Forest Foundation is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes a diverse pool of candidates in this search. For more information about the National Forest Foundation, visit the website at: www.nationalforests.org

Education and Qualifications: NFF expects the Southwest Idaho Landscape Forestry Technician to possess the following educational and experiential qualifications:

  • Previous forestry experience desired but not required.
  • Basic knowledge of timber and fuels management.
  • General understanding of wildland fire behavior, wildfire mitigation approaches and post-fire impacts.
  • Working knowledge of forest measurement techniques and tools (diameter tape, prism, clinometer etc.), fuel load estimation and basic timber inventory and cruising
  • Ability to interpret project specifications and adhere to written inspection and data collection protocols.
  • Working knowledge of GPS, GIS and digital mapping applications
  • Experience working around logging equipment and other heavy machinery.
  • Knowledge of Idaho’s ecosystems, trees, and plant species.
  • Knowledge of other resource focus areas, such as wildlife management and archaeology and relevant protection measures
  • Basic competency in the Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, etc.) and email
  • Good writing, oral communication, and interpersonal skills
  • Must be able to work independently in remote areas.
  • Ability to safely hike and navigate alone in remote, steep mountainous areas using a map, compass, GPS and other digital mapping applications
  • Must be able to lift 50 pounds and work in steep, rocky and brushy terrain for long periods of time.
  • Must be able to work in environmental conditions that may range from extreme heat to cold with rain or snow possible.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license.
  • A demonstrated commitment to the mission of the NFF and the environment.
  • You must be Authorized to work in the United States.

Abilities and Skills: NFF expects the Southwest Idaho Landscape Forestry Technician to possess the following proven abilities and skills:

  • Ability to work independently, performing fieldwork, attending meetings, and managing projects with minimal oversight.
  • Ability to act as a contract administrator and liaison between project contractors and the U.S. Forest Service.
  • Ability to represent the NFF with diverse constituents in a clear and professional manner through excellent written and oral communication skills, and excellent interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to collaboratively manage programs and evaluate their outcomes against quantifiable measures of success.
  • Ability and willingness to travel regularly, work in outdoor conditions, and maintain a flexible work schedule, including participation in weekend and evening events.
  • Ability to effectively manage a variety of projects and tasks to successful completion.
  • Ability to work well and be flexible in a team-oriented environment.
  • Ability to work remotely (e.g., home office).
  • Must have valid U.S. driver’s license and clean driving record.
  • Excellent analytical skills with a strong attention to detail.

Conservation and Science Technician

Join us as part of a dynamic team and science-based culture where our mission is to Lead The Walt Disney Company to Care for animals and the environment, Connect people to nature and Conserve our natural resources.

As a Conservation and Science Technician, you will focus on terrestrial conservation and science at the Walt Disney World Resort with a particular emphasis on urban wildlife, and an initial focus on pollinators, with the intent to broaden the role to include other taxa as well; however, we work as one multidisciplinary team to address dynamic needs where they arise across our parks and resorts to advance our team mission.

In this full time, on-site role, you will report to the Conservation Programs Manager.
What You Will Do

Support, assist, and provide technical expertise to implement conservation programs, science-based practice, novel research, and outreach at Walt Disney’s Parks & Resorts.
Conduct various aspects of scientific monitoring and/or conservation field work to optimize animal well-being, wildlife monitoring and habitat protection.
Collect, process and visualize data and produces reports or presentations with visual appeal and clarity for partners; conducts literature searches, maintains databases and archival tools.
Provide support for meetings, classes, and workshops and provide findings for staff seminars, team meetings, scientific journals, conference presentations, popular publications, and social media.
Coordinate operational logistics of conservation programs, including habitat installations and management.
Develop and update standard operating guidelines and provides technical support, organizes, and maintains equipment to create safe workspaces, and ensures hazardous waste management compliance.
Order and distribute supplies, maintain inventory, and assist with quality assurance.
Provide flexible support across Conservation team projects and other science and conservation working groups to support operational and strategic goals.
Engage with diverse teams in the training and daily coordination of Disney cast members and operating participants for specific initiatives or projects.
Support communication efforts, helps create original content and interactive, interpretive experiences, and engages regularly with Guests and other audiences to share our stories.
Support external partnerships to advance conservation, research, and public engagement.

Required Qualifications & Skills

Proven computer (Office/Excel) skills.
Strong written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills for formal and informal audiences of all ages.
Minimum of one year experience with outreach/guest interaction/public speaking.
Experience and familiarity with working in a biological field setting.
Experience with wildlife ecology, preferably in Florida and/or urban settings.
Enthusiasm for animal conservation.
Ability to support multiple projects and deadlines with attention to detail and ability to problem solve.
Proven ability to work independently, as well as within dynamic team environment.
Ability to work outdoors in all types of weather and in view of the public, including heat, humidity, biting insects, and other challenges associated with work in the field on associated conservation projects.
Full availability with work schedule, including nights, weekends, holidays, and rotating shifts. Willing to travel and work in remote areas alone or with others.
Comfortability lifting up to 50 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience working in zoos/aquariums and/or with wildlife.
Proficiency in other languages, priority Spanish.
Proven record of scientific publication in peer-reviewed journals, with at least one co-authored publication.
Additional technical expertise that can be demonstrated across conservation and science programs such as: Avian field experience, Advanced data management, analysis, and visualization, and Arthropod collection and identification experience.

Education

B.S. in biology, animal or conservation science, psychology or social science, laboratory science, science communication or related field or proven evidence of ability and experience.

Ecology & Science Director

Position Summary
This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Under the direction of the Camp and Program Directors, the Specialty Directors are responsible for the direct supervision and organization of the assigned group including any Junior Counselor or Counselor in Training (CIT) assigned to the program area. Responsible for planning, supervising, and organizing camp specialty programs. Responsible for daily activities, special events, and rainy day activities such that the objectives of the East Area Family YMCA will be met and all activities will be appropriate for the age of the campers they are assigned. Provide opportunities for all campers to build confidence, learn new life-skills, and develop friendships. The Specialty Director assures the well-being for each participant in line with YMCA of the USA guidelines and association policies in accordance with their training.

Salary and Benefits:

Salary Range: $4388.00/season, Seasonal, non-exempt

YMCA Membership

YMCA Summer Day Camp Quality Service Theme:
By acting as role models and building lasting relationships, we make a positive difference in families’ lives.

Responsibilities/Duties/Functions/Tasks:
The essential functions of this position include, but are not limited to the following:

To attend and be involved in staff training and orientation.
To be available to work daily within the hours of the camp schedule as outlined by the Camp Director.
To work with other staff and unit directors/program director to develop a full recreational and educational program each session.
To assist in the development and implementation of special programs as assigned by the Program Director.
To attend all weekly camp staff meetings and participate in all extra meetings as needed.
Attend any overnight when needed as decided upon by any Unit Director, Camp Director, or Program Director.
Attend any family night planned and one carnival night as planned.
Communication with Unit Director, Camp Director, or Program Director of issues that arise in their specific area.
To be responsible for clear, appropriate communication with campers, their families, and other staff when needed.
To be responsible for implementing all other tasks as assigned by Camp Director/Program Director.
To act in a professional manner at all times including personal appearance, speech, and interaction with campers, their families, and other staff.
To understand that you are part of a team that is responsible for a group of campers and that your plans should be implemented in such a way that your campers receive a fun, meaningful, and safe experience.
To be responsible for working with and assisting with the supervision of any CIT assigned to you. To provide weekly positive feedback and constructive criticism to the Assistant Program Director in the form of an evaluation form.
Handle any and all discipline problems in a consistent manner as they occur. Seek advice from Unit Director, Program Director, or Camp Director as needed.
Be responsible for basic supply inventory and notifying the Camp Director of any needs that may arise.
To be available after camp hours on the last day of the season and participate in the close up of camp.
Assist in special activity days, end of day sign out of campers, and overnights as needed.
Lead and engage staff and campers in daily projects.
Responsible for following the camp purchasing procedures and ordering supplies needed for activities.

Experience, Education and Qualifications

1-year of prior experience working in a camp setting/environment, and supervision of staff.
Must be 18 years of age.
Excellent organizational and communications skills both verbal and written are essential to the success of this position.
Brings to this position maturity, responsibility and a sincere interest in working with people.
Possess a general knowledge and understanding of YMCA, its goals, and its mission.
Possess knowledge of various resources for programming ideas and the skills to utilize that information in program implementation.
Possess knowledge of age appropriate activities and expectations of children ages 3 to 14.​

YMCA Leadership Competencies:

Communication & Influence: Listens and expresses self effectively and in a way that engages, inspires, and builds commitment to the Y’s cause
Inclusion: Values all people for their unique talents, and takes an active role in promoting practices that support diversity, inclusion, and global work, as well as cultural competence
Program/Project Management: Ensures program or project goals are met and intended impact occurs

Physical Demands:
The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Prolonged periods of standing and frequent bending.
Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds at a time.
Will be exposed to illness-causing bacteria and viruses
Must have basic swim abilities which include: swim at least 4 lengths of the pool (100 yards) and tread water for a minimum of 3 minutes.

Work Environment:
This job operates in a recreational and/or educational environment. This role routinely uses standard recreation and/or office equipment. At times, employees may be exposed to undesirable working conditions, communicable infectious diseases, and risk of injury from others. All employees are required to always follow the preventative health policies of the YMCA. The noise level in the work environment is moderate to high.

Horticulturist

Role: The Horticulturist is responsible for horticultural maintenance of several themed garden spaces and may take a lead role in seasonal display development. This position will supervise horticulture volunteers with standard bed maintenance and new garden installations as needed.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Develop and execute yearly maintenance plans for each garden overseen
Work with the Manager of Horticulture Operations & Manager of Public Horticulture in bed renovation and redesign
Oversee and perform garden and grounds maintenance tasks, including planting, weeding, watering, mulching, pruning, mowing, fertilizing and others as required of each assigned garden space
Develop seasonal themed exhibits and displays
Safe operation of power tools and equipment, such as mower, leaf blower, snow blower, string-trimmer, hedge trimmer, bed edger, skid-steer, golf cart and utility vehicle
Utilize organic pest management techniques under supervision
Perform light structural maintenance work or small engine repair
Supervise horticulture volunteers
Ability to work occasional evenings and rotating weekends with other horticulture staff

Qualifications and Education Requirement:

Bachelor’s Degree in related field, or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
Minimum of (3-5) years of demonstrated knowledge of basic plant maintenance
Minimum of (3-5) years of demonstrated knowledge of safe operation of tools and equipment
Willingness to perform hands-on horticulture tasks in all weather conditions
Willingness to collaborate with other departments and work larger events throughout the year.
Ability to lift 50 pounds
Customer service experience and the ability to work with diverse populations and volunteers
Ability to work under supervision, independently and as part of a team

Conservation Technician

Houston Parks Board (HPB) expands, improves, and protects parks and greenspace in the Houston region. Since 1976, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization has utilized public-private partnerships and its extensive philanthropic, government, and community relationships to provide equitable access to quality parks and greenspace to the Greater Houston region.

Houston Parks Board has reached a major milestone with substantial completion of the boldest and most exciting capital project in its history: Bayou Greenways. This ambitious $225M project significantly expands and enhances Houston’s parks system, creating a continuous system within the city limits of 150 miles of linear parks and trails along Houston’s bayous. In addition to leading the transformational Bayou Greenways initiative, Houston Parks Board cares for more than 2,800 acres of greenspace and supports park projects large and small.

For more information about Houston Parks Board and its high-impact work in the community, please visit houstonparksboard.org.

The Position

With guidance from, and under the direction of, the Conservation and Maintenance Director and the Conservation Manager, the Conservation Technician will coordinate the following activities within the Bayou Greenways Conservation and Maintenance program. This position involves hands-on work in restoring and maintaining natural areas and landscape resources, therefore it requires knowledge of plant/animal ecosystems and landscape techniques.

Main Responsibilities

· Capable of working effectively and independently in the field with minimal guidance

· Understanding, monitoring, and caring for the forestry resources and/or habitats along the Bayou Greenway system

· Natural resource management tasks, such as herbicide control of invasive species

· Work collaboratively in the field with other conservation staff, volunteers and contractors on conservation projects

· Vegetation inventory/assessment within prairies, meadows, wetlands and wooded areas

· Creation, replanting and rebuilding of prairies, wetlands and wooded areas

· Project coordination with HPB team members, including Greenspace Managers and the HPB Volunteer Manager

· Regular meetings with Conservation Manager and Team

· Additional duties as required

Qualifications

Education:

· Bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture, natural resources, ecology, forestry, resource management, biology, wildlife biology, urban planning with an emphasis on environmental design or related field, or equivalent experience in a related field

Knowledge and Experience:

· 2 or more years of experience managing natural resource management projects and environmental education programs

· Strong knowledge of plants native to the Houston area, including tree identification

· Experience with technical aspects and best practices of landscape and wildlife management

· Expertise and understanding of landscape systems, ecological systems, green infrastructure and landscape sustainability

· Understanding of long-term implications of construction-related decisions and practices on future maintenance operations

Skills and Abilities:

· Plant identification skills are essential for a successful candidate, particularly tree identification skills

· Excellent organizational skills with the ability to meet multiple deadlines with attention to detail, define problems, collect data, establish facts, and present viable solutions

· Good communicator, including clear, concise and accessible reports, correspondence, procedural manuals and verbal presentations

· Ability to work effectively with others in order to build mutual respect and solve problems

· Ability to efficiently respond to questions from staff, Board members, program partners, funders and members of the community

· Ability to effectively manage projects and project personnel, both volunteer and contract

· Demonstrated ability to work independently

· Evidence of good judgment and decisiveness

· Ability to work creatively and resourcefully within a determined budget

· Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite products, working knowledge of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), ability to read and interpret landscape architectural plans

Interpretive Ranger

Job Summary
The Interpretive Ranger will enhance visitor experiences in Fernbank Forest and WildWoods outdoor areas as a roving naturalist during public hours. In addition to monitoring conditions along the trails and in outdoor exhibitions, the Ranger will provide interpretation of Fernbank’s outdoor natural resources to the public. This job will require extensive time spent outdoors.

Major Functions

Evaluate and maintain trail conditions (i.e. mulching, sweeping, operating leaf blower and using tools and hand-pulling invasive plants).
Identify safety concerns and crowd capacity while circulating throughout Fernbank’s outdoor areas
Respond to any potential emergency situations
Perform opening and closing procedures as well as trail upkeep and limited outdoor exhibition maintenance
Monitor students, interns and volunteers working in outdoor areas of Fernbank’s campus as needed
Deliver interpretive programs of campus/outdoor resources for large and small groups and facilitate exhibitions as necessary
Mentor volunteers, including adults and teens
Assist with forest research and data collection on occasion
Enhance visitor experience in outdoor areas by addressing guest questions and concerns
Other projects and duties, as assigned, to support the Education Department and the Museum

Education & Experience Requirements

Experience spending extended time outdoors
Desire and ability to engage guests of all ages and backgrounds
Bachelor’s degree in biology, environmental science, conservation, ecology, education, interpretation, or related field is a plus, but not mandatory
Working or volunteer experience in the above disciplines is acceptable in lieu of a college degree
Some experience working or volunteering in informal science education is a plus
Experience working with and addressing diverse audiences in any service or educational field
Strong customer service skills

Skills and Attributes

Strong communication and presentation skills coupled with enthusiasm for natural history
Personal interest in learning about the natural world
Ability to work outdoors, navigate rough terrain, lift up to 25 pounds and walk up to 10 miles per day
Valid driver’s license
Team player but also able to work independently for long periods of time
Flexibility and adaptability to changes in project needs and/or goals
Ability to manage multiple tasks through to completion
Willingness to support other Museum priorities as needed
Ability to work 1 weekend day; and occasional holidays and evenings is required (currently Sundays are mandatory)