The Prairie Restoration Specialist works with and directs a crew of four Prairie Restoration Interns on a daily basis. This position is based out of the Avon Hills office, located at St. John’s University in Collegeville, MN. The primary work area is the Ordway-Glacial Lakes Landscape, a prairie and savanna complex with strong conservation ownership in central Minnesota. The time frame for this position will be July 31, 2019 (or as soon as possible thereafter) to November 2019 and housing is available.
The Prairie Restoration Specialist’s (PRS) primary function is to organize daily logistics, promote crew cohesion, and to ensure a safe and productive work environment. Daily duties will focus on native seed harvest and processing for a 100+ acre prairie restoration. PRS will coordinate efforts of a three-person intern crew daily, and additional volunteers, staff, and cooperators intermittently. The PRS will regularly canvass native prairie sites to prioritize both species and focal areas for seed collection efforts. The PRS may assist in prescribed burns and maintain tools, equipment and land. Other duties may include invasive species control and vegetation monitoring. The PRS will maintain detailed records using field journals, a database, PC or mobile device.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Supervises no staff, but leads a crew of 4 interns and helps plan and direct work groups, including staff, cooperators or volunteers.
- May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.
- Requires 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 mower, chainsaw, UTV, ATV or OHV, two-way radio, or similar equipment).
- Experience working in a team environment
- Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, herbicide or pesticide application).
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross cultural experience are appreciated.
- Bachelor’s degree in botany, ecology, or other science related field.
- 1 - 2 years’ experience in land management or related field.
- Experience working in grasslands or other terrestrial ecosystems of the upper Midwest or Great Plains.
- Strong field botanical skills and experience conducting field sampling are preferred, but training will be provided for all aspects of the position.
- Experience keeping detailed field journals and data logs.
- Ability to obtain driver’s license and maintain a good driving record.
- Ability to follow instructions from colleagues/coworkers/team members.
- PC and/or mobile device familiarity, including experience with GIS and GPS devices, and databases.
- Prior experience in leadership position(s).
- Qualified at the Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2) standard set by the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG)
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.