The Nature Conservancy owns and manages approximately 2400 acres in six counties in northeast Indiana. Our Seasonal Preserve Assistants are responsible for aiding Indiana staff at these preserves in the restoration of pre-agricultural habitat through reforestation, the hydrological restoration of ephemeral and perennial wetlands, and the installation of native wetland plants. They help maintain valuable remnant communities through invasive species control and fire management; and work with neighbors to minimize ongoing threats to our states valuable Natural Heritage.
The Seasonal Preserve Assistants are 6-month positions with an approximate time frame of April or May through October or November. Optional, on-site housing is available at the Douglas Woods preserve near Hamilton, Indiana. These facilities are a 3-bedroom, 2 bath, ranch style home, fully furnished with a functioning kitchen. Housing facilities will be shared and often visited by other TNC partners and staff.
The Seasonal Preserve Assistants are responsible for invasive species control, native wetland species plantings, tree plantation maintenance, and monitoring of native plants and animals. Work will require the use and maintenance of chainsaws, brush cutters, sprayers, herbicides, and other equipment. This position requires strenuous field work in a variety of environmental conditions, including routinely lifting and hiking/walking carrying 25+ pounds of equipment. A significant amount of time will focus on identifying and treating invasive species. Participation in controlled burning is possible if the applicant is professionally qualified and there will be opportunities to travel to other regions of the state to work on a variety of projects with other teams.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- May interact with visitors.
- Works under close or infrequent supervision.
- May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations for extended periods of time in isolated settings, on difficult and hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.
- Requires considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain.
- 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).
- Must have valid driver’s license.
- Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, herbicide or pesticide application).
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Access to a personal vehicle.
- Ability to follow instructions from colleagues and work in a team environment.
- Interest and ability to communicate and work within a rural agricultural area.
- Ability to interact with visitors and volunteers to convey basic project information.
- Experience and interest in natural areas restoration, ecology, or other natural resource field.
- Ability to safely use herbicides to control invasive plant species.
- Ability to safely use and maintain tools and equipment, including chainsaw, power, and construction tools.
- Ability to safely use vehicles such as trucks, trailers, UTV/RTVs, and mowers.
- Knowledge of Midwest flora and fauna.
- Assist and potentially lead volunteer crews and activities.
- Ability to keep organized and accurate records and work efficiently without supervision.
- Ability to perform physical work, oftentimes under adverse conditions or in inclement weather.
- PC familiarity, including database knowledge.
- 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.