We are seeking a Land Conservation Steward to assist with the implementation of bird-friendly farming practices on our 120-acre farm. The Land Conservation Steward will assist with the conversion of crop fields to enhance habitat for upland birds and support habitat for the reintroduction of quail. S/He will also support the conversion of pastureland to conifer groves and convert pastures to alternating fields of warm season and cool season grasses.
Areas of Responsibility:
- Implement land management objectives at Aullwood Farm, including planting and maintaining trees, woody plants, lawns, trails, fields, and other grounds
- Lead the conversion of pastureland/crop fields to more bird-friendly habitat
- Monitor the diverse natural systems on Aullwood Farm, to include: controlling invasive plant populations; monitoring the Center’s wildlife populations; removing hazardous trees near structures and trails; cultivating, planting, pruning, and watering of Native Species; applying herbicides as needed
- Oversee the removal of a wide variety of invasive species by traditional and nontraditional methods (e.g. through the use of goats and/or other farm animals)
- Maintain trails, road and grounds by use of mowers, chainsaw, brush cutter, or other power equipment; post boundaries and ensure professional appearance and safety of grounds for staff, program participants and visitors
- Maintain grounds including mowing/edging lawns and raking, mulching, and composting leaves
- Conduct EPA water tests as needed
- Prepare chemicals for work application
- Research and stay abreast of land restoration best practices
- Maintain a restoration log updating regularly and ensuring integrity of data collected
- Perform regular maintenance on and/or repair tools, equipment, or structures, such as buildings, greenhouses, fences, or benches, using hand or power tools
- In collaboration with the Volunteer Manager and Maintenance Manager, supervise and train volunteer and interns
- Lead stewardship workdays engaging members from the public in Aullwood's mission
- Provide proper upkeep of walking trails, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, planters, or other grounds features
- Install equipment to protect or support trees
- Shovel snow from walks, driveways, or parking lots and spread salt in those areas
- Serve as a representative of Aullwood and a liaison with farm visitors, volunteers and staff
- Other duties as assigned
Educational Background:
High school diploma or equivalent required; associate degree or higher in a related field preferred. An equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered. Arboriculture education or training required.
Skills/Experience:
- 1-3 years' experience in landscape or habitat management; experience working at a public park, historical site or property management firm a plus.
- Extensive knowledge of Ohio native and non-native plant and animal species.
- Independent decision-making and judgment in troubleshooting any issues that may arise in the operations of the farm.
- Willingness and ability to be a key team member or excel independently
- Excellent interpersonal skills, both verbal and written, and the ability to professionally represent Audubon to the public.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks through use of effective organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to operate vehicles or powered equipment including but not limited to mowers, tractors, twin-axle vehicles, snow blowers, chippers, chain-saws, electric clippers, sod cutters, or pruning saws.
- Knowledge of the appropriate tools and equipment needed to perform a task, including but not limited to chainsaws, chipper, dump truck, winch, bucket truck, skid steer loader, tractors, blowers, drills, basic hand tools, and pesticide sprayer.
- Experience handling pesticides and herbicides; knowledge of how to mix and apply in a safe manner.
- Excellent judgment and a strong concern for safety of interns, volunteers, and the public.
- Comfort leading groups of volunteers and teaching others how to perform simple tasks. Comfort interacting with the public.
- Requires strenuous physical work: frequent standing, bending, twisting, and hiking. Must be able to lift, push, or pull objects over 50 pounds with or without accommodation. Candidate must be willing and able to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
- Ability to operate standard computer software, specifically Microsoft Office Suite.
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and evenings, as the job demands.
- Valid driver's license in good standing and reliable transportation required.
Job Function:
Organization Info
Listing Stats
Post Date:
May 22 2018
Active Until:
Jun 22 2018
Hiring Organization:
National Audubon Society
industry:
Nonprofit