Seasonal Natural Resources Tech

Newfields a Place for Nature & The Arts • Indianapolis, IN

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Newfields is seeking a Seasonal Natural Resources Technician to work collaboratively within our team structure to implement projects and maintenance support for The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park. This position is integral in performing the general, daily maintenance of the park, invasive species removal, and the implementation of projects during the 2026 growing season. The Seasonal Natural Resources Technician is a full-time, 32-week position with hours including weekends and holidays.

Requirements

• Experience with sod and grass seed establishment
• Proficiency in the use of hand and power tools, including pesticide application equipment.
• Knowledge of irrigation systems including basic plumbing and irrigation knowledge (or willingness to learn)
• Native and invasive plant identification skills sufficient to pull weeds in garden spaces and remove invasive plants from forested areas
• Operational skills on wide range of grounds equipment, including backhoe, chainsaw, tractor loader, mowers, etc. (or willingness to learn)
• General knowledge of mechanics sufficient to recognize the existence of mechanical problems and preventative maintenance practices to avoid preventable damage to equipment
• Ability to evaluate changing weather conditions and make appropriate decisions regarding snow and ice removal
• Must have a valid driver’s license
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals; and apply common sense to carry out detailed written or oral instructions
• Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one or small group settings to guests, volunteers, or internal staff
• Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, decimals, and percentages – sufficient to calibrate equipment and make errorless calculations on pesticide application rates
• Ability to follow safety procedures when working with mechanical and chemical equipment
• Ability to identify hazards, debris, and anything out of place and fix issues independently

Nice To Haves

• One to three years related experience and/or training in the natural resources preferred
• Or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Responsibilities

• Trash removal throughout the park
• Soil work and turf establishment involved with major projects throughout the park
• Operate equipment as assigned including mowers, weed-eaters, lawn edgers, backhoe, chainsaw, chipper, forestry mower, loaders, stump grinders, trencher/pullers, box grader, and others
• Provide support for projects by participating in large scale ground preparation, planting, and post-planting care
• Assist in implementation of master plan projects, including sculpture installation and the ongoing maintenance of the Wild Birds Unlimited Pollinator Meadow and other gardens
• Perform horticultural maintenance tasks, including planting, weeding, pruning, laying sod, snow removal, trash removal, and pesticide application
• Serve as a Newfields ambassador in the Art and Nature Park through excellent service and guest relations, responding to any number of internal or external requests for assistance
• Work with volunteer groups on a variety of small or large group projects
• Other duties as assigned

What This Job Offers

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