The Restoration Technicians will help manage and restore tallgrass prairie at Nachusa Grasslands, a 4,000 acre preserve near Dixon, IL. Technicians will work together on a crew to remove invasive weeds and hand-collect native seeds. Seeds are then used to restore agricultural lands back to high diversity prairie, wetlands, and savanna on site annually. These are great opportunities to learn about plants and animals and natural areas management with an emphasis on ecological restoration. Interesting, educational, and challenging outside work at a dynamic restoration project. This is an exceptional entry level position to learn what it really takes to do natural areas management and restoration.
We will be hiring 4 Restoration Technicians this season. Three positions are expected to run from May 21, 2018 to November 21, 2018. A fourth, shorter duration position, is expected to run from June 11, 2018 to August 31, 2018. These are full-time, short term positions with a pay rate of $13.50/hr. Includes optional, nice clean on-site housing (one technician per room), high speed internet available at Headquarters; no pets.
The essential functions of the Restoration Technicians will be to remove invasive weeds, hand-harvest native seeds, maintain bison fence and buildings, set-up events for visitors and members, and repair and maintain equipment.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- May interact with visitors.
- Works and interacts with volunteer stewards.
- Works under close or infrequent supervision.
- Works 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.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- 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.
- Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
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.