Blowing Rocks Preserve Maintenance Specialist

The Nature Conservancy•Hobe Sound, FL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Blowing Rocks Preserve Maintenance Specialist is part of the Stewardship and Field Programs (SAF) of the Florida Chapter of The Nature Conservancy (TNC). The position works under the supervision of the Blowing Rocks Preserve Manager and is based at the 73-acre Blowing Rocks Preserve (BRP) on Jupiter Island, FL. The Specialist is responsible for Preserve-based facilities and equipment maintenance and assistance with conservation programs at BRP. BRP is one of four campus preserves of TNC’s Center for Conservation Initiatives (CCI). Originally protected for its unique rock formations and sea turtle nesting habitat, today the Preserve also serves as a model for successful coastal habitat restoration. The Blowing Rocks Preserve Maintenance Specialist maintains facilities, tools, and equipment, mechanical systems and vehicles, landscaping around buildings, and Preserve areas frequented by the visiting public. The Maintenance Specialist completes basic repairs on mechanical equipment and Preserve infrastructure including the interior and exterior of buildings, boardwalk, plant nursery, and parking lots at BRP, assist with inventory and purchasing of machinery, and assists with Preserve operations including opening and closing BRP to the visiting public. They may operate heavy machinery, lead work teams, and assist with conservation efforts such as removal of exotic species and trail maintenance. Blowing Rocks Preserve and this position are integral to CCI and its mission.

Requirements

High school diploma and 4 years’ direct experience in applied mechanical maintenance.
Experience operating and/or repairing various types of equipment and machinery. (e.g.; lawn mower, chainsaw, tractor, backhoe, bulldozer, dump truck, two-way radio, etc.).
Experience working with electrical, plumbing, welding, and concrete.
Experience coordinating teams to complete construction and repair projects.
Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications required to participate in prescribed burns or CPR, first aid, etc.
A valid driver's license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program.
Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers."
Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.

Nice To Haves

Trade skills such as mechanical, plumbing, carpentry, and HVAC.
Familiarity with the safe operation of equipment, and ability to follow recommended safety guidelines and precautions specified for said work.
Ability to complete tasks independently and manage diverse activities under deadlines.
Working knowledge of and willingness to use common software applications (e.g.; Word, Outlook, Excel, Web browsers).
Achieve and maintain CPR and First Aid certification.
Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems.
Ability to learn to recognize plant and animal species to complete preserve management activities.
Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.

Responsibilities

Oversee facilities, grounds and equipment maintenance at BRP.
Maintain public access areas, roadside, buildings, and equipment on Blowing Rocks Preserve.
Operate various types of hand and power tools, vehicles, and equipment in a safe and productive manner.
Resolve Preserve facilities problems independently or as delegated; may work with infrequent direct supervision.
Assist supervisor to ensure maintenance and construction contract work is properly supervised, completed, and meets desired outcome(s).
Financial responsibility may include working within/managing a budget to complete projects, negotiating and contracting with vendors, and acquiring building permits.
Ability to follow safety guidelines and perform tasks in a safe manner.
Carry out assigned Safety Officer duties for Blowing Rocks Preserve.
Conduct safety trainings and briefings at staff meetings and field events as needed.
Familiarity with OSHA regulations and compliance.
Operate ATV’s/UTVs safely according to TNC ATV/UTV Operating Guidelines and ensure that each employee is capable of safely operating the equipment and complying with the TNC ATV/UTV Operating Guidelines at all times.
May help plan, direct, or convey work instructions to Preserve work groups, including other staff or volunteers.
Work with supervisor to maintain maintenance SOPs for BRP facilities and ensures they are implemented.
Assist with setting up facilities for events, classes, and organized group visits; may require infrequent weekend work to assist with special events.
Assist with preserve operations including opening and closing.
Assist Preserve visitors when needed (e.g. answering questions, provide preserve use guidance, etc.)
Respond to and assist with emergency events that may require interaction with law enforcement and fire emergency rescue representatives.
Perform regular cleaning and custodial duties at BRP.
Perform basic custodial duties including hauling trash and recycling, and cleaning offices, public areas, and restrooms.
Ensure that cleaning supplies are stocked and stored in a clean and orderly manner.
Collect debris from BRP grounds as necessary.
Assist with land conservation and stewardship projects.
Under the guidance of the South Florida Land Conservation Coordinator, assist with trail maintenance, exotic species control, or other land management projects as needed.
May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.
Participate in online and in-person staff meeting and trainings.
Infrequent multi-day travel to other CCI campus preserves and TNC managed lands to plan and implement facilities and maintenance projects.
Other duties as assigned by supervisor.