Ecological Restoration Technician, Natural Areas - Seasonal

Chicago Botanic Garden • Glencoe, IL

3d • Onsite

About The Position

This approximately 35 week-long seasonal position begin mid-April. Individuals in this position will work with staff ecologists and volunteers who manage the natural areas to support native plant species diversity. Technicians will have the opportunity to learn how to identify and manage a wide range of both native and invasive plant species. They will gain knowledge about characteristics of prairie, woodland, and aquatic ecosystems and acquire skills required to manage these habitats. All technicians, under the guidance of Garden ecologists, will assist with stewardship in all of our natural areas including the prairie, woods, and the lakes and shorelines. On average, about 80 percent of the candidate's time will be focused on conducting hands-on stewardship in our natural areas.

They will also be part of our new career pathway program called the Stewardship and Ecology of Natural Areas (SENA) internship program, launched in 2023. As a participant in our SENA program, about 20 percent of the technician's time will be comprised of career development training. This will include activities such as scientific explorations that support the care of natural areas, inclusive leadership training, as well as other collaborative opportunities between internal and external partners. The employment term for these seasonal positions begins in mid-April and continues through early December. The normal work schedule is Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Requirements

• At least one growing season of working experience including natural areas restoration or conservation work, or related experience working outdoors over a range of conditions.
• Experience with or an interest in learning plant species of the Chicago region, including the use of dichotomous keys to identify plant species.
• Possess or be willing to obtain an Illinois pesticide applicator license and a prescribed burning certification.
• A proven strong work ethic.
• An ability to function well in both team and individual work situations.
• Strong interpersonal communication skills.
• Possess a high comfort level being in and around water along with an ability to swim should the need arise in an emergency.
• A valid driver’s license and a good driving record.
• Commitment to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist in controlling invasive woody and herbaceous species in diverse native plant communities. This includes applying herbicides, cutting, and burning woody invasive species, digging, mowing, raking, and removing debris, and deadheading.
• Collect, clean, and disperse native seeds.
• Help maintain a native seed nursery (weeding, watering, planting).
• Prepare burn breaks and participate in prescribed burns.
• Operate small power tools including mowers, brush cutters, hedge trimmers, chainsaws, weed whackers, and water pumps and use herbicide sprayers, backpack water tanks, and hand tools.
• Care for garden vehicles, tools, and machines.
• Coordinate with Garden personnel (e.g., mechanics) related to work responsibilities.
• Work with SENA program manager and Garden staff to set and work toward learning goals that will support continued career development.
• With other SENA participants, Garden staff, as well as other external partners, participate in workshops, training sessions, and one-on-one or team-based projects to enhance skills and expertise in target areas.
• Assist with native species monitoring and other projects conducted in collaboration with department scientists, students, and other staff.
• Assist with algae and macrophyte removal on the lakes and shorelines utilizing motorized john boats, as well as trail maintenance and litter collection throughout the natural areas and adjoining spaces.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Savings Account (HSA), Life & AD&D insurance, Legal Shield, Commuter Reimbursement, Wellness initiative benefit, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Retirement plan
• Personal days, Holidays, Holiday Thank you pay
• Garden membership - free to employees at Household Plus level
• Discounts to Garden Shop, Cafe, Garden-sponsored educational classes
• Employee events such as Orchid show, Night of 1,000 Jack-o'-Lanterns, Lightscape employee & friends preview night

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees