Conservation Steward

Seasonal Conservation Steward
Douglas-Hart Foundation

Summary of Position:

The Conservation Stewardis responsible for land management practices, habitat restoration, grounds and trail maintenance, habitat surveying, greenhouse care, specialty beds care, and similar for the Douglas-Hart Foundation at three unique properties: The Douglas-Hart Nature Center, Friendship Garden, and The Whiteside Garden.

Typical day-to-day operations include habitat restoration, invasive species removal, planting native species, greenhouse care, trail and grounds maintenance, maintaining specialty beds, data collection/surveying, and similar. Most duties will be conducted at the Douglas-Hart Nature Center under the direction of the Land Stewardship Director. This is a seasonal position, May-August, and may fulfill the requirements of an internship if needed.

Description of Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

● Assist with the restoration and management of natural areas: prairie, woodland, and wetland (Planting, invasive species removal, habitat surveying, specialty bed care, etc.)

● Assist with the care of specialty gardens: bird garden, butterfly garden, and bog garden
(weeding, watering, mulching, etc.)

● Ensure trails and amenities are maintained, clean, and cared for
● Assist with grounds maintenance (mowing, weed-eating, etc.)
● Assist with greenhouse operations (planting, watering, fertilizing, and other care)
● Assist with data collection and habitat surveys
● Lead volunteer groups with various projects

Description of Other Duties & Responsibilities:

● Assist with large events and programs in cooperation with other staff
● Assist with general maintenance of visitor center
● Assist with daily operations of the organization, including but not limited to clerical duties, opening and closing of facilities, and assisting guests in a professional manner

● Perform other duties as assigned by the Land Stewardship Director.

Skills, Abilities, & Qualifications

● Basic knowledge of flora and fauna of Illinois
● Ability to interpret conservation efforts and create meaningful guest experiences
● Ability to work independently, or as a group on a variety of projects
● Ability to organize time efficiently
● Ability to communicate, interact, and respect diverse audiences and perspectives
● Ability to delegate, lead, and work effectively with a diverse team of volunteers
● Ability to write and speak clearly and effectively
● Willingness to work a flexible schedule that will include some weekends and evenings
● Must possess a valid driver’s license
● Must be able to walk over rough terrain without trails, need to be able to lift and carry

30 lbs., work continuously for long periods of time in all types of weather conditions, and be outside a majority of the workday

● Must be able to (or learn to) operate a tractor, utility vehicle, chainsaws, brush cutter, and other various tools

● Must be available to work May-August

Education/Training Requirements:

● (for Internship Credit) In pursuit of a degree in environmental biology, ecology, forestry, natural resources management, conservation biology, environmental science, or related field preferred

● Previous experience in natural areas management preferred, but not required
● Must possess, or be willing to possess an Illinois Pesticide Operator License (training provided)

Job Details & To Apply:

● $14/hour
● Hours are mainly Monday-Friday, but occasional nights and weekends is required.
● This job reports directly to the Land Stewardship Director.
● This position meets the requirements for a Biology, Conservation, Natural Resources, or related field internship.

The Douglas-Hart Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to a work environment that supports, inspires, and respects all individuals and in which employment is based on qualifications, merit, and business needs and applied without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, disability, family, national origin, military service, or citizenship.

Job Types: Part-time, Temporary

Pay: $14.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Application Question(s):

• Do you have knowledge of Illinois flora and fauna?

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Work Location: In person