The Nature Conservancy in New York is working to improve forest health to mitigate and adapt to climate change. In support of this goal, the Conservancy is assessing the success of forest restoration projects in New York and is launching a project to identify Natural Climate Solution strategies. The Forest Restoration Technician will work with staff, partners and volunteers to collect forest vegetation data that will be used to make recommendations on the management of forest resources throughout the region. The Forest Restoration Technician will also conduct a review of literature and summarize the information to support the development of Natural Climate Solution strategies to increase forest carbon to mitigate climate change.
This is a full-time, seasonal temporary position. The position has an anticipated duration of 20 weeks, starting on April 29th and ending September 13th, 2019. The Technician will spend ~ 60% time conducting field work and ~ 40% time in an office setting. This is a great opportunity to learn about forest management and restoration in the context of climate change mitigation and adaptation.
The Forest Restoration Technician will assist and at times lead forest monitoring data collection and entry on projects in the Catskill Mountains and Lower Hudson Valley. Data collection will include tree and plant identification and measurement using established protocols. The Technician will be responsible to organizing and entering large datasets. The Forest Restoration Technician will also conduct a literature review and summarized results to inform strategies to increase forest carbon storage and sequestration to mitigate climate change. The position may also, if needed, help to carry out restoration plantings, remove invasive plant species and interact with the public regarding the goals of the projects.
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.
- May require long hours in isolated settings.
- Makes day to day decisions as delegated by supervisor.
- May work under infrequent supervision.
- Experience recognizing plant and animal species.
- Experience operating various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. Lawn mover, chainsaw, UTV, ATC, OHV, two-way radio, or similar equipment).
- Experience working in a team environment and alone.
- Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, herbicide or pesticide application).
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
- 1 - 2 years’ experience in land management or related field.
- Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems.
- Ability to identify tree and herbaceous plant species.
- Ability to follow instructions from colleagues/coworkers/team members.
- PC and/or mobile device familiarity, including database knowledge or understanding.
- Demonstrated experience collecting scientific data; maintaining accurate records (e.g. field forms and digital database).
- Experience conducting literature reviews and summarizing information.
- Ability to obtain driver’s license and maintain a good driving record.
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.