The Muleshoe Ranch Preserve Caretaker performs Muleshoe headquarters and preserve maintenance, monthly data collection on the Preserve, and assists with management of other San Pedro preserve watersheds.
The Muleshoe Ranch Preserve Caretaker is primarily responsible for maintenance and upkeep of the Muleshoe Ranch Preserve Headquarters and assisting with the day-to-day operations of the preserve. The position supports implementing preserve management plans with the systematic collection of conservation-related data and supporting partners with conservation work on the preserve; and may support the guest services operation with building and construction maintenance. Position will be expected to maintain vehicles, tools and equipment, and operate heavy and dangerous machinery (e.g., tractor and chain saws, etc.), On occasion, the Caretaker may interact with guests who have maintenance related issues or questions regarding the preserve and Conservancy work on site.
The Muleshoe Ranch Preserve Caretaker will also spend up to 40% of their time, which may include overnight travel, on other TNC preserves and properties located on the San Pedro River Watershed assisting the San Pedro Program with similar maintenance and data collection activities.
The Muleshoe Ranch Preserve Steward is expected to work and live at the Muleshoe Ranch Preserve in a setting that includes a prevalence of rattlesnakes and other natural hazards in housing provided by The Nature Conservancy.
In the absence of the Preserve Manager, the Caretaker will be on-call for issues that arise and/or take on management decisions regarding the Preserve.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the Muleshoe Ranch headquarters, includes building maintenance and landscaping.
- Responsible for Headquarter trail maintenance and data collection on the Preserve.
- Supervises no staff but may help plan and direct preserve work groups.
- May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.
- Requires long hours, often alone, in isolated settings.
- Makes day to day decisions as delegated by supervisor.
- May work under infrequent supervision.
- May spend up to 40% of their time assisting other Nature Conservancy staff on the San Pedro River performing conservation and maintenance related duties.
- Coordinates with Youth Safety Office to assure compliance with TNC’s Youth Safety policy when activities may include youth.
- Experience recognizing plant and animal species.
- Experience operating various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. Lawn mower, chainsaw, 4-wheel drive vehicles, UTV, tractor or similar equipment).
- Experience working in a collaborative environment with other team members; as well as independently.
- Must be able to maintain related licenses (e.g., herbicide, pesticide, and/or first aid/CPR)
- Experience with data entry software and use of PCs.
- Experience with physically strenuous work indoors and in the outdoor elements – includes lifting and carrying a 45 lb. pack and standing and walking the majority of the day.
- Valid driver's license. Please indiciate this in your resume.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- 1 - 2 years’ experience in landscaping, native plant restoration and/or greenhouse operation.
- Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems and ecological land management principles.
- Experience in building maintenance, including troubleshooting and solving simple electrical and plumbing issues.
- Completion of tasks independently with respect to timeline(s).
- Manage multiple tasks; manage time and diverse activities under deadlines while delivering quality results.
- Ability to follow instructions from supervisor and colleagues.
- Able and willing to be on call as needed; travel overnight to other conservancy preserves/ offices; and work weekends
- Youth certified.
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.