The Preserve Technician performs and participates in preserve operations, maintenance and management.
A 14-20 week full-time position. A minimum of 14 weeks of availability is required with an extension of up to an additional 16 weeks depending on budgets and the applicant’s interest and availability. On-site housing is available. The employee will be expected to 1) become familiar with local prairie grassland restoration practices and native plant materials along the upper Texas coast and other parts of the state; 2) learn local invasive plant species and techniques for controlling them; 3) learn and implement a variety of practices for site restoration of native grassland plant communities, including safely applying appropriate herbicides, native seed planting, and establishment monitoring; 4) learn and operate various equipment and machinery appropriate for restoration practices and native seed production; 5) work with TNC staff, partner organizations, and volunteers to accomplish restoration and stewardship objectives; 6) help clean and maintain preserve facilities. The employee may be expected to travel to various locations in the greater Houston area, sometimes overnight, and may have opportunities to travel to preserves and conservation lands along the Texas coast.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Supervises no staff, but may help plan and direct preserve work groups, including staff or volunteers.
- May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.
- Requires considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain.
- Requires long hours in isolated settings.
- Makes day to day decisions as delegated by supervisor.
- May work under infrequent supervision.
- Must be willing to apply and work with herbicides
- Experience recognizing plant and animal species.
- Experience operating various types of equipment.
- Experience working in a team environment.
- Valid driver’s license
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- 1 - 2 years’ experience in land management.
- Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems.
- Ability to recognize plant and animal species to complete preserve management activities.
- Ability to operate, maintain, and repair various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g.; ATV, chainsaw, tractor, two-way radio, etc.).
- Ability to follow instructions from colleagues.
- PC familiarity, including database knowledge.
- FFT2 & arduous pack test (red card) certified or ability to obtain certifications
The Nature Conservancy offers competitive compensation, 401k or savings-plan matching for eligible employees, excellent benefits, flexible work policies and a collaborative work environment. We also provide professional development opportunities and promote from within. As a result, you will find a culture that supports and inspires conservation achievement and personal development, both within the workplace and beyond.