The Assistant Crew Leader will help manage and restore tallgrass prairie at Nachusa Grasslands, a 4,000 acre preserve near Dixon, IL. The Assistant Crew Leader will work with the Project Director and Restoration Ecologist. The Assistant Crew Leader will also work closely with the McCormick Resident Fellow to co-lead a crew of Restoration Technicians. The work of the crew will involve removing invasive species and hand-collecting native seeds. This position will also operate various types of equipment, participate in prescribed fire, and bison management activities. This is a full-time, short term position that pays $14.50 an hour.
- Hand-harvest native seeds.
- Remove invasive brush and herbaceous weeds.
- Maintain bison fence and buildings.
- Set up for events for visitors and members.
- Repair and maintain equipment.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Lead or co-lead seasonal Restoration Technicians.
- Manage Arc Collector mapping.
- Some interaction with visitors.
- Works and interacts with volunteer stewards.
- Works under close or infrequent supervision.
- May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations for long periods of time in isolated settings, on difficult and hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.
- Requires considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain, operating a chainsaw, hauling an herbicide pack, walking miles off trail.
- Experience operating various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. chainsaw, tractor, skid loader, herbicide sprayer, etc.)
- Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, herbicide application, and driver’s license).
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Course work in ecology or experience with natural areas restoration.
- Ability to follow instructions from colleagues.
- Ability to work and live in a team environment.
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.
This is a seasonal, short term position with a start date of March 11, 2019 and an end date of December 20, 2019.