Job Tag: Conservation

The Wiess School of Natural Sciences is seeking a Garden Manager for The Betty and Jacob Friedman Holistic Garden. The manager will manage the garden and supervise garden workers, including students. They will facilitate the purchasing, planting, maintenance, harvesting, and sales of produce and plants and fundraising. They act as a key contact for garden activities.

The ideal candidate for the position will have experience overseeing and working with the annual and seasonal gardening process. They are a collaborative and independent thinker and able to creatively research and solve problems and communicate well.

This position is eligible for a flexible work schedule; remote work is not available. Responsibilities may require evening and weekend hours to meet the needs of garden management.

Annual hiring range: Starting $56,000, contingent upon qualifications and experience.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree
In lieu of the education requirement, additional related experience, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year for year basis may be substituted
2 years of related administrative experience
In lieu of the administrative experience requirement, additional related education, above and beyond what is required, on an equivalent year for year basis may be substituted
Skills Required
Knowledge of organic gardening techniques, organic garden management, and protection of the natural ecosystem of which the garden is a part
Functional knowledge of organic gardening methods, botany, and environmental science
Functional knowledge of basic business practices
Strong verbal and written communication skills
Ability to work independently and as a part of a team to meet expected deadlines and schedules
Ability to monitor the health of plants under all conditions
Attention to detail and excellent organizational skills

Essential Functions

Administers garden operations, ensuring efficient, effective, and productive operations
Creates and implements plans to achieve garden objectives and mission
Interprets, implements, and ensures compliance with Rice University and Betty and Jacob Friedman Holistic Garden policies and regulations and recommends changes to procedures and processes
Creates budget plans, monitors and approves expenditures, develops reports, conducts analyses, and manages and maintains financial records
Enrolls, coordinates, and supervises student workers and TAs
Implements effective volunteer recruitment, management, and recognition program
Teaches appropriate horticultural techniques to student workers, TAs, and volunteers
Maintains the garden’s budgets
Keeps on file records of plantings, planting plans, etc. and other garden records
Maintains the garden’s budgets
Maintains an inventory of garden tools, equipment, and supplies and replaces supplies as they are used up or needed
Contributes to and leads improvements in the operation of the garden
Performs all other duties as assigned

Additional Functions

The main function of the manager is to help coordinate day to day maintenance of the garden under the direction of the Director. Other specific duties vary but include the following:

Organizes, advertises, and conducts tours and workshops
Develops and maintains the garden’s large email list
Assists in development of garden’s social media
Maintains visitor logs for outreach purposes
Creates opportunities for engagement between the garden and the greater Rice community and beyond
Analyzes data, identifies trends, develops reports, and recommends and implements changes to improve alignment with institutional mission and goals
Creates and implements outreach plans that may include relationship development, communications, and event and conference management
Provides support in developing relationships with internal and external entities
Assists with fundraising activities
Assists in preparation for courses taught in the garden

Through its visionary leadership and high impact staff, the Natural Areas Conservancy (NAC) champions urban natural areas in New York City and across the nation through innovative research, partnerships, and advocacy. We increase the health and resilience of urban forests and wetlands, catalyze connections between people and nature, and strengthen the environmental workforce.

Started in 2012, the Natural Areas Conservancy is the first park conservancy dedicated exclusively to New York City’s natural areas–20,000 acres across all five boroughs. Since 2019, we have also worked on a national scale, leading a network of representatives from cities across the U.S. to strengthen research, information sharing, and communication efforts to enhance the field of urban forest management.

We want all people to feel welcomed, inspired by, and connected to the natural world.

About the NAC Student Urban Nature High School Program

Piloted first in Forest Park, Queens in 2022, the NAC has run a paid urban ecology internship program for local high school students using the framework of science identity to promote environmental stewardship among NYC youth. Over the course of six weeks, high school interns become familiar with flora and fauna identification, field ecology, natural areas management and stewardship, and the scientific method through mentored monitoring and restoration projects. Interns also have the opportunity to participate in professional development training in public speaking, networking, and resume building. Based on the success of the Forest Park program and the lack of this type of programming in other NYC boroughs, the NAC plans to continue expanding this program in Forest Park as well as launch a pilot in Staten Island.

The Forest Park Seasonal Field Coordinator position will support the Internship Community Coordinator with leading day-to-day logistics of the internship program in Forest Park, such as following the environmental education curriculum provided, lead programming in Forest Park, coordinating with partners for guest visits, acting as the point of contact to interns that require assistance or troubleshooting from the field, assisting interns in understanding scientific lessons, and acting as mentor by providing guidance to interns conducting their research projects. Ideal candidates will have experience in program coordination, environmental education, and urban ecological research.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Under the supervision of the Internship Community Coordinator, the Forest Park Seasonal Field Coordinator will be responsible for:

Preparing for and leading high school programming in Forest Park

Assisting the Internship Community Coordinator with preparation and facilitation of summer training for program mentors

Maintaining and growing relationships with partners in Forest Park to strengthen program efforts

Supervising interns and assisting with program mentors involved in the high school program

Documenting activities and the progression of the program through photos and videos

Tracking, dispersing, and collecting program equipment

Working with NAC Communications staff to create weekly social media content relating to the high school program

Providing administrative support (intern and program documentation, scheduling events and remote days, tracking attendance, etc.)

Assisting Internship Community Coordinator with program evaluation through pre-surveys, post-surveys, and reviewing participant feedback

Checking in with interns about their day-to-day experience in the program and debriefing with program mentors about the successes and modifications to the program

Assisting in data collection, data entry, analysis, and quality control as a mentor to the interns

Communicating any issues associated with Forest Park high school program and its participants to the Internship Community Coordinator

Potentially creating a program activity to practice educational programming skills

When possible outside of high school program program dates, participating in events such as group stewardship days, donor cultivation events, and professional development sessions

Preparing for and facilitating intern science communication opportunities such as public presentations and Student Research Symposium with the New York City Science Research and Mentorship Consortium on Thursday, August 15th at the American Museum of Natural History

REQUIRED SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS

Interest in studying and improving local ecosystems

Educational program coordination experience

Field data collection experience within forests, wetlands and/or trail networks

Ability to maintain a positive, collaborative attitude during hot (and probably buggy) days in the forest and in variable weather conditions

Strong science communication skills

Excellent organizational, analytical, and written communication skills

Ability to closely follow directions and adhere closely to field data collection protocols

Physically able to hike up to 6 miles a day carrying up to 40 lb

Ability to travel/work independently

Computer/Microsoft Office skills

PREFERRED SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS:

Familiarity with and proximity to Forest Park, Queens

Classroom management and conflict resolution

Mentorship experience

Experience working with high school aged students

Research, data analysis and project design experience

The District Director oversees and directs the District Conservation Program and staff, ensuring the proper execution of Strategic and Annual Plans. The role includes personnel management, budget preparation, grant application, and report submission. Additionally, the individual will act as a liaison for the Maumee River Basin Commission, coordinate with various conservation agencies, administer mandated programs, and supervise special projects. The job requires public engagement, attending training programs, and overseeing financial operations, including bookkeeping, accounting, and reconciliation of bank statements.

Key Tasks:

Oversees the District Conservation Program and staff.
Assists in developing and implementing Annual and Strategic Plans.
Serves as the District Representative for the Maumee River Basin Commission.
Acts as a liaison with local, state, and federal conservation agencies and government departments.
Assists in the local administration of state and federally mandated programs.
Provides information to the public through various channels, including telephone, office visits, public meetings, and demonstrations.

Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources, Conservation, or related fields, or equivalent training and experience.
Thorough knowledge of District functions and policies, with the ability to effectively direct the activities of staff and volunteers to achieve program goals.
Valid Driver’s License to operate a County-owned vehicle.
Strong organizational and supervisory skills for coordinating group programs and delivering impactful public presentations and educational programs.
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to interact courteously and tactfully with other agencies and the public.
Working knowledge of both rural and urban farm programs and practices, and an understanding of their interrelationship with soil and water conservation.

Truckee Meadows Water Authority (TMWA) is a not-for-profit, community-owned water utility, overseen by elected officials and citizen appointees from Reno, Sparks and Washoe County. TMWA has a highly skilled workforce who ensure the around-the-clock treatment, delivery and availability of high-quality drinking water for more than 400,000 residents of the Truckee Meadows.

We are looking to hire Seasonal Water Conservation Consultants, to join our Conservation team for the 2024 season, which will run approximately May to October, depending on weather conditions.

ABOUT THE POSITION

The primary role of the Water Conservation Consultant is to educate TMWA customers on conservation policies in order to reduce water waste as well as help customers understand bill statements and save money on water bills.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
We believe that each employee makes a significant contribution to our success. That contribution should not be limited by the assigned responsibilities. Therefore, this job description is designed to outline primary duties, qualifications, and job scope, but not limit the incumbent nor TMWA to just the work identified. It is our expectation that each employee will offer his/her services wherever and whenever necessary to ensure the success of our endeavors.

Operate a company vehicle the majority of the working day.
Educate customers regarding TMWA water conservation policies and programs including mandatory outdoor watering schedules, watering restrictions and irrigation best practices. This may include issuing notices for failure to comply with conservation policies.
Educate customers on ways to reduce water waste, understand bill statements and save money on water bills in order to conserve our regional water resources.
Respond to water waste situations by interacting with customers either in person or via the telephone.
Coordinate with homeowners, tenants, and landscape/property managers to identify water waste conditions.
Frequent self-initiated contact with a diverse group of customers.
Work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
Follow-up with customers who have leaks and ensure repairs are made.
Ensure conservation department vehicles are maintained and in good working condition.
Ensure all TMWA safety procedures are followed
Operate a variety of electronic devices including a cell phone, computer, and digital recorder.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the minimum requirements is:

Experience:

At least one year of experience dealing with customers in person, and on the phone is preferred.
Experience with irrigation systems is preferred.

Education & Training:

On-the-job training is provided, however the incumbent must have the following education and training:

A high school diploma or equivalent is required.

Must have working-level knowledge of the English language including reading, writing, and speaking English.

Working knowledge of digital cameras/recording devices, cell phone, and a personal computer, as well as multiple computer applications (i.e., email, databases, word processing, map viewers, etc.)

Special Requirements:

Water Conservation Consultants will be required to work flexible hours that may include starting as early as 5:00 a.m. and working as late as 8:30 p.m., including weekends and holidays. The successful candidates should be available to begin work in May and work until October. The conclusion of this temporary position may be shortened or extended based on weather and business needs.

The Town of Acton is seeking applicants for a full-time, benefitted Conservation Agent. The incumbent will assist with environmental efforts for the town including the enforcement of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act; will participate in creating plans for the town conservation and open space projects and working closely with the Acton Conservation Commission. The incumbent will work on special projects, obtaining permits, writing grants, and creating documentation for maps, education programs, and pamphlets for the town’s conservation and environmental areas.

General Duties and Responsibilities:

Provide technical and administrative support for the Conservation and Planning Divisions of the Land Use Department in relation to conservation and environmental planning
Enforce the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act; including site visits and inspections to ensure new builds and current locations are in compliance with the Act and laws
Create and assist with planning efforts for town conservation projects
Work closely with the administrative staff to prepare Conservation Commission agendas, coordinate site walks for applicants, and draft and publish minutes
Work on special projects, write grants, permits, and create documentation for the town’s conservation and environmental areas
Act as liaison for town and citizens on environmental efforts with regional, state, and federal and non-profit agencies
Provide technical assistance to the Open Space Committee and other committees as assigned
Keep detailed records and reports of all inspections, meetings, and projects

Minimum Entrance Requirements: Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science or related field, with at least two (2) years of experience in wetlands protection through understanding of Massachusetts Wetland Protection Act, land conservation, land use or municipal planning, environmental planning, or in a related field or any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred Qualifications: Experience working with the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite. Strong working knowledge of Geographic Information Systems and ability to read and interpret plans. General working knowledge of municipal terms, rules, and regulations. Experience in community planning; writing grants and permits; conduction of inspections.

Position type: Full-time employment, 40 hours per week. Non-exempt under Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)

Description: Performs all aspects of display bed maintenance in the assigned area to set a standard of horticulture excellence under the direct supervision of a Horticulturist or a Curator.

Essential Functions: Assists horticulturists in maintain gardens and collections through weeding, watering, pruning, deadheading, mulching, edging, raking, fertilization and pesticide application. Supervises assigned volunteers. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. Ability to work outside for 8 hours in heat, cold or light rain and can continuously walk, stand, bend, twist and/or stoop. Has the ability to push, pull and perform manual labor during working hours. Must be willing to work alongside horticulturists using fertilizers, insecticides, fungicides and herbicides with the label stated safety precautions.

Requirements: Interest and the ability to learn and perform horticultural practices. Associate’s Degree in Horticulture or related field and one-year practical experience preferred, but related experience is also considered and valued. A Valid driver’s license is required.

Specific Job Responsibilities:

• Maintains display beds through weeding, watering, pruning, deadheading, mulching, edging, raking, and fertilization.
• Performs the appropriate soil preparation and planting procedures.
• Works alongside other members of the Horticulture Dept. on team projects. The ability to work in a team environment is essential.
• Operates small engine equipment safely (golf cart, weed-eater, blower, edger, etc…).
• Cleans, and uses hand tools and equipment responsibly.
• Assists their assigned Horticulturist in performing the basic tasks in their area when the Horticulturist is not present.
• At the discretion of their supervising Curator, assumes greater responsibilities such as operating restricted use equipment, acquiring Virginia Registered Technician pesticide license, or other special assignments.
• Assists with Garden-wide special events and other duties as assigned.

The Lancaster Conservancy is seeking an outgoing individual with enthusiasm for physical labor and the great outdoors to work as part of a seasonal land stewardship crew. While not required, we will favor candidates with some experience in equipment operation and transport, use of power-tools, and use of hand-tools. Seasonal Land Stewards will work on a crew, under the direction of a Regional Preserves Manager, to implement a variety of conservation projects at local nature preserves including trail work and habitat restoration. 40 hours per week is not guaranteed in event of inclement weather, but efforts will be made to accommodate safe and/or indoor work during short periods of such weather events; and therefore, this is a field-based position, but some shop or office work may also be required. Work will be physical in nature, and will at times occur on steep, uneven terrain, in areas of thick vegetation and/or in remote locations, at a number of nature preserves around Lancaster County and eastern York County.

This is a seasonal, hourly, non-exempt position with an anticipated start date of Monday, May 20, 2024 and an anticipated end date of Friday, August 9, 2024. This is an entry-level position, so candidates without all of the above-stated qualifications will still be considered for this position. This position will work up to 40 hours per week, with an anticipated season of 12 weeks. Wage compensation is $15.60 per hour for first-year land stewards and $16.50 per hour for returning Lancaster Conservancy Seasonal Land Stewards. Reliable transportation to and from work sites is required. Candidates must be 18 years or older.

The Indiana County Conservation District is hiring a Conservation Program Specialist to primarily administer their Agriculture Conservation Assistance Program. This position has guaranteed funding through December of 2026. The successful candidate will have an opportunity to make a tremendous and positive impact on agriculture in Indiana County. Specific program tasks will include providing technical assistance, education, and outreach to farmers, oversee the installation of agriculture best management practices to reduce soil erosion and improve water quality, and foster collaborative relationships with agency partners. The successful candidate will be able to identify and procure other funding to ensure the continuance of the position beyond 2026.

Minimum Qualifications

Successful candidates will possess an Associates Degree in agriculture or related field, have experience in managing agriculture projects, have knowledge of soil and water conservation issues including Ag BMPs, and be able to work independently with minimal supervision.

Job Compensation

This position starts at $37,000 with an automatic increase to $42,000 upon completion of a six month probationary period. The District will consider relevant education and experience in determining a candidates starting salary. The District offers an exceptional benefits package including annual, sick, and holiday leave; health, dental, vision, and life insurances (individual and family) with no employee match and an HSA contribution; 10% retirement contributions; parental leave; flexible scheduling, hybrid work environment, $1,500 quarterly retention bonuses, and tuition reimbursement.

GENERAL PURPOSE

This position will work with the garden manager on various projects and with the water conservation team to perform site visits for various programs, including the Water Efficient Landscape Rebate and Water Checks. Garden projects include a water-wise demonstration garden, desert garden, District Office landscaping and a test garden.

BENEFITS AND HOURS

This position is classified as an unbenefited flexible position. Position requires 15 to 19 hours per week in a flexible schedule, the majority of the work hours are during the peak time of public use of the conservation projects. Hours will vary seasonally, and some evening and weekend work may be required.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Directly supervised by both the Garden Manager and the Water Conservation Manager.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Performs pre- and post-visit site inspections for the Water Efficient Landscape Rebate, which includes measuring grass areas and guiding the property owner(s) through the program requirements to ensure a successful project completion and verifying completed projects meets all program qualifications for the rebate.
Conducts residential water system irrigation audits (water checks) from May through September. Water Checks involve interaction with customers within Washington County, Utah and educating customers on proper irrigation practices. Employee operates a variety of sprinkler systems to determine the amount of water being applied, the uniformity of application, soil type and determines an appropriate irrigation schedule. Training provided.
Provides administrative support to all district managers which may include assistance with district events, picking up and/or delivering products and materials, filing, mailings and other activities as requested.
Performs basic landscape maintenance tasks as directed by the garden manager.
Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education and Experience:

Graduation from high school or equivalent; AND
Some experience in performing above mentioned duties; OR
An equivalent combination of training and experience to above may also be approved. Preference may be given to applicants pursuing a degree in water conservation, soil science, horticulture, or environmental science.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Applicants must be personable, self-motivated, have an interest in understanding irrigation systems, irrigation controllers, and be willing to work outdoors. Basic math skills are required. Use of hand tools for variety of garden maintenance tasks to include digging, planting, weeding, and pruning. Ability to frequently work in extreme temperatures outside during the summer months and to periodically be subject to temperatures above 100 degrees.