Preserve Management Assistant

The Nature Conservancy • Gaithersburg, MD

1d • $18 - $19 • Onsite

About The Position

The Tallgrass Aspen Parklands (TAP) landscape contains over 300,000 acres of conservation land, including almost 16,000 acres of land directly managed by TNC. It hosts a number of charismatic species, including elk, bear, wolves and others. As our Preserve Management Assistant, you will work closely with partners in land management, including the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service. You will assist in all aspects of prairie management, including:
• Prescribed fire.
• Invasive species removal using herbicides and other methods.
• Prairie restorations, including seed collection, planting, and maintenance.
• Data collection and monitoring.
• Maintenance of preserve facilities and equipment.
Wildland fire is a major part of land management in the TAP, so you will gain experience operating equipment and working with large interagency teams. Some overtime may be expected. You will work outdoors in variable weather conditions, in remote locations, at times on difficult and uneven terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.
Guided by science, TNC creates innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that people and nature can thrive together. This position is a great introduction to a conservation career focused on land management. You can expect to gain experience in prairie conservation and restoration techniques in the context of large intact natural areas. So, if you’re looking for a career to help people and nature, and enjoy working outdoors, we invite you to apply today!

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED and 1 year’s training in a science-related field or related experience in land management.
• Experience recognizing plant and animal species.
• Experience operating various types of equipment safely and efficiently (e.g. Lawn mower, chainsaw, UTV, ATV or OHV, two-way radio, or similar equipment).
• Experience working in a team environment.
• Experience working independently.
• Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, herbicide application, Basic federal firefighting certifications.)
• Must be able to pass a fitness test (walk 2 miles, with a 25 lb. load within 30 minutes.)
• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• This position requires 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.

Responsibilities

• Prescribed fire.
• Invasive species removal using herbicides and other methods.
• Prairie restorations, including seed collection, planting, and maintenance.
• Data collection and monitoring.
• Maintenance of preserve facilities and equipment.

Benefits

• TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED