Natural Resources Technician

Champaign County Forest Preserve District•Mahomet, IL

7h•Onsite

About The Position

The Natural Resources Technician is responsible for assisting with natural areas management throughout the Preserves. This includes invasive plant management; restoration and conservation of prairie/savanna, forest/woodlands, and wetlands; and support of the Preserves education and recreation efforts.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in parks and recreation, natural resources, wildlife, forestry or other closely related field. The CCFPD will also consider candidates who hold a high school degree, associate's degree, or trade degree combined with five years of comparable work and/or life experience will also be considered.
Knowledge of, and/or experience in, conservation biology, restoration ecology, environmental science, hydrology, soil science, environmental laws and regulations, and/or environmental impact assessment principles and practices.
Current Illinois Pesticide Applicator license or the ability to obtain within 3 months of employment.
Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships throughout the Preserves.
Ability to use tools of the trade, both powered and non-powered in a safe and effective manner.
Excellent time management and prioritization skills; ability to work proactively and independently without constant supervision.
Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment in solving problems and making decisions; ability to respond professionally to challenging or stressful situations.
Excellent written and oral communication skills; ability to communicate clearly and concisely in a professional manner.
Demonstrated good safety awareness.
Ability to use standard office equipment, including a computer. Must possess a working knowledge of Microsoft Office suite.
Valid driver’s license is required.
CPR/AED and First Aid certification or the ability to obtain within 12 months of employment.
Must possess, or have the ability to learn, a working knowledge of the Preserves rules and regulations.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of central Illinois flora and fauna and/or Midwest ecosystems is preferred.
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is preferred.

Responsibilities

Identify native and invasive species in natural areas.
Handle, mix, and apply herbicides and pesticides using various spray equipment.
Conduct field sampling, prepare environmental analyses, and report field conditions to supervisor.
Prepare sites for planting of trees, shrubs, or seeds as directed to support restoration efforts.
Participate in seed collection and seed processing.
Perform prescribed burns as a member of a burn crew.
Assist with tree/brush removal.
Use various tools of the trade, including but not limited to: trucks, tractors, mowers, backhoes, skid-steers, chain saws, brush cutters, and hand tools.
Maintain facilities and equipment in a clean, safe, and efficient working order.
Assist with supervision of daily work assignments for seasonal employees, interns, and volunteers.
Assist with performing and documenting safety orientation for seasonal staff and/or volunteers.
Perform all job tasks in compliance with the District’s Safety Manual and the department training manual.
Other duties as assigned.