The McCormick Resident Fellow will be woven into a year of natural areas management at Nachusa Grasslands, a 4,000 acre preserve near Dixon, IL yielding a strong foundation in ecological stewardship. This position is intended to provide extensive experience in stewardship, decision-making, and leadership to an emerging conservation professional. Full-time job, one-year position. There may be the possibility of a one-year extension, but candidates need not commit to a two-year appointment to apply. $15.50/hr. Includes nice, clean, on-site housing with one person per room. High speed internet available at Headquarters. No pets.
The McCormick Resident Fellow will do brush work in the dormant season operating a chainsaw, compact track loader, and tractor with implements. The Resident will serve on the spring prescribed fire crew working towards line boss level. In the summer and fall, the Resident will lead or co-lead the seasonal crew of Restoration Technicians in prairie management and restoration activities that will include invasive species management and hand-collecting a high diversity of native seeds. The Resident will work with the Project Director and Restoration Ecologist. Additional tasks include activities associated with bison management, interfacing with scientific research, along with maintaining and cleaning buildings, setting up for events for visitors and members, running errands, and repairing 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 or aptitude towards operating various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. Lawn mower, chainsaw, tractor, herbicide sprayer, etc.).
- Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. Moderate pack walk test of 24 pounds for two miles under 30 minutes, First Aid, CPR, herbicide application, and driver’s license).
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Master’s degree in ecology or resource management.
- Experience with natural areas restoration.
- Ability to follow instructions from colleagues.
- Ability to work 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.
Full-time job, one-year Fellowship starting in March 2019 and ending April 24, 2020. There may be the possibility of a one-year extension, but candidates need not commit to a two-year appointment to apply.