Conservation Technician I

The Conservation Technician position is primarily responsible for carrying out ecological restoration work at KNC and off-site with clients of the Ecological Services Program. Field work will include such things as: woody shrub and tree management, herbaceous invasive species control, use of hand tools and mechanical equipment (chainsaws, brush cutters, augers, etc.), occasional use of heavier equipment (tractor, skid steer, brush hog, etc.), biological surveys, responsible use of herbicides. 

Duties:

•  Follow and enforce all safety measures.
•  Maintain excellent communication with supervisor and other staff.
• Work in the field with other technicians, seasonal crew members, staff, and field volunteers.
• Maintain and keep records on field activities, vehicles, equipment, and supplies.
• Assist with other duties related to the mission and stewardship goals of the Kalamazoo Nature Center.
• Travel for extended periods of time (up to a week at a time) to complete natural resources management contracts.
• Comply with all KNC staff policies, including COVID-19 measures.

Requirements:

• Able to work in rough and difficult terrain outside under adverse weather conditions and able to lift at least 50 pounds.
• Willing to work with herbicides and obtain a State of Michigan Pesticide Applicator’s License.
• Safely remain committed and motivated for 10 hours of physical work.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Creative and energetic.
• Ability to work as a team member as well as individually.
• Commitment to the KNC mission.
• Ability to work with a diverse group of people.
• Self-starter and self-directed.
• Able to maintain a flexible work schedule.
• Demonstrated customer service attitude.
• A valid driver’s license and willingness to drive trucks, trailers, and other equipment.
• A reliable vehicle for driving to project work sites. Mileage will be reimbursed.
• Must pass pre-employment background check
• Ability to meet U.S. Drug-Free Workplace standards, as required for grant-based activities.

Preferred:

• Pursuing or possess a Bachelor’s degree in natural resources management, biology, botany, forestry, or related field.
• Prior experience with natural areas management including plant/plant community identification, invasive species management, and experience with power equipment, tools, and herbicides.
• Ability to drive and operate trucks with trailers and load/unload trailers or able to learn.
• Ability to operate 4WD vehicles on off-road terrain safely or able to learn.
• Prior experience with heavy machinery a plus.
• Prior experience with chainsaws, brush cutters, herbicide equipment, etc.
• Able to key out and identify unknown plant species.
• National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) Wildland Firefighter Type 2 training (S130, S190) a plus.

The Kalamazoo Nature Center is an equal opportunity organization that will not discriminate in its programs, hiring practices, or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, ethnic origin, physical or mental disability, veteran status, height, weight, sexual orientation or gender identity, marital status, or political affiliation.

How to apply:

To Apply: 
Email cover letter, resume, and three references to [email protected].