The Stewardship Assistant implements preserve maintenance and management activities and conducts land and easement monitoring on lands located throughout Kentucky. This is a seasonal, full-time, position based out of Lexington, KY beginning June 3 and ends August 30.
The Stewardship Assistant maintains preserve areas frequented by the visiting public and performs land management activities including but not limited to invasive species management, trail maintenance, mowing, weed-eating, fence repair, sign maintenance, parking area maintenance, preserve inspections, easement monitoring and reporting, assist with restoration activities, and keep records of work. Frequent overnight travel is necessary.
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.
- Maintains and repairs, preserve signs, trails, parking areas, and other infrastructure.
- Completes preserve and conservation easement inspections.
- Assist with member and donor field trips.
- Apply pesticide, operates chainsaws, and various power equipment.
- Loads, secures, and pulls trailers.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
- 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, tractor, 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).
- Must have a valid driver’s license and a driving record clear of major violations (DUI, DWI, etc.).
PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE
- 1 - 2 years’ experience in land management or related field.
- Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems.
- 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 database knowledge or understanding, GPS, and ArcMap.
- Certified pesticide applicator
- Certified Firefighter Type 2 and knowledge of prescribed fire.
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.