The Conservation Stewardship Assistant performs and participates in various preserve operations, maintenance and management activities associated with preserve stewardship on the 2,039 acre coastal Mashomack Preserve. Primary duties include Preserve stewardship, species management and monitoring and conservation science monitoring and restoration projects. This is a short-term position; shared housing is available.
Areas of Responsibility:
- Stewardship: Assist Preserve staff with all aspects of nature preserve stewardship, including the general operation of the preserve, maintenance activities, interacting with Preserve visitors and maintaining an on-site presence. Tasks will include: fencing, trail maintenance, routine mowing of trails and grounds, boundary marking and implementing control strategies on selected invasive species. Control strategies may include mechanical mowing and/or hand pulling, cutting and digging and the use of herbicides under the direct supervision of a NYS Certified Pesticide Applicator. Additionally, the Assistant will perform facility maintenance tasks and special event preparation, set-up and clean-up. These duties require physical labor and the safe operation of hand tools and power equipment. There may also be opportunities for GIS data collection and mapping.
- Species Management and Monitoring: Monitor nesting Osprey and Bald Eagle at Mashomack throughout the nesting season. Locate and monitor Piping Plover and Least Tern nesting activity and complete “Colonial Waterbird” survey forms. Tasks may include erecting symbolic fencing and predator exclosures, monitoring reproductive success throughout the breeding season, recording specified field observations and maintaining detailed record of field notes; informing supervisor of current status on a weekly basis, and preparing end of season reports.
- Conservation Science: Assist conservation science staff with a variety of forest and coastal/marine restoration and monitoring projects. Tasks will include collecting data related to a forest vegetation study, monitoring salt marshes and collecting environmental data following developed protocols. May assist staff on conservation projects across Long Island when practical.
- Training will be provided for all of the above-mentioned tasks.
- This description is not designed to be a complete list of all duties and responsibilities required for this job. In addition, there may be expectations for work outside of the local business unit
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Requires good interpersonal and communication skills for regular interaction with staff, volunteers, preserve neighbors and visitors to convey basic preserve information.
- Ability to speak, both one-on-one and in front of small to medium sized groups, in a consistently professional, positive and approachable manner.
- Ability to work under close supervision or independently.
- 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 in areas where ticks & mosquitos can be a frequent nuisance.
- Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and evenings as necessary.
- May require considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain; ability to lift and carry 50 lbs.
Educational Background:
High school diploma or GED and 6 months of related experience or equivalent combination.
Skills/Experience:
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience operating various types of tools and equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. handheld GPS, gardening tools, lawn mower, chainsaw, etc.)
- Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR).
- Experience using word processing programs and e-mail systems.
- Experience performing physically demanding work or sports/fitness.
- Must have valid driver’s license.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Multi-lingual skills appreciated; Multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience preferred.
- Experience or Bachelor’s degree in environmental education or related field preferred.
- Knowledge of ecological and natural history concepts, familiarity with Northeast coastal flora and fauna, and the love of sharing that knowledge with others. Familiarity with The Nature Conservancy’s conservation goals.
- Strong written and oral communication skills. Excellent organizational skills.
- Ability to manage several projects simultaneously.
- Working knowledge of lawnmowers, weed-whackers and other landscaping tools.
- Ability to work both independently and in a team environment cooperatively with a variety of volunteers and staff.
- Ability and willingness to do occasional physical labor.
- Skill in kayaking and/or canoeing.
- Current First Aid or CPR certification desirable.
- Computer literate with a working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
- Form of transportation for personal use is preferred.
- Ability to follow instructions from colleagues.
Compensation/Benefits:
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.
Job Function:
Organization Info
Listing Stats
Post Date:
Jan 19 2018
Active Until:
Feb 19 2018
Hiring Organization:
Nature Conservancy
industry:
Nonprofit