Smoky Valley Ranch Conservation Steward

The Nature Conservancy•Oakley, KS

6d•$16 - $20•Onsite

About The Position

The Smoky Valley Ranch Conservation Steward (Steward) works at Smoky Valley Ranch (SVR), located between Oakley and Scott City, in Logan County, Kansas. They will perform and participate in ranch operations, maintenance, management, and monitoring. This is a full-time, entry-level, seasonal position with a flexible duration of up to 6 months. The Steward must be willing to learn about conservation issues and priorities. Housing is provided. The position pays $16 – 20 per hour, depending on the candidate’s experience. Under the direction of the Ranch Manager and the Smoky Valley Ranch Rangeland Specialist (Rangeland Specialist), the Conservation Steward carries out ranch operations and maintenance tasks: Works with cattle and bison and attends daily to water, fencing, salt, and mineral. Organizes and manages ranch inventory. Maintains preserve infrastructure, including roads, water systems, fences, and other facilities. Keeps vehicles clean and in good working order. Carries out vegetation and other ecological monitoring and management activities as directed by the Ranch Manager or Rangeland Specialist. Will require training to assist with prescribed burns, under the direction of the designated burn boss. Performs various ranch work as directed by the Ranch Manager or Rangeland Specialist. Work with outside entities (universities, extension, etc.) to advance management on SVR.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED and 1 year’s training in science-related field or related experience in land management.
Experience operating various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. trailer, lawn mower, chainsaw, tractor, ATV).
Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, herbicide application).
Experience working with cattle and ranching.
Experience with fence construction and maintenance.
Experience performing physical work, sometimes under adverse conditions or in inclement weather.
Must have or be able to obtain a valid driver’s license, be insurable under TNC policy, and comply with TNC Auto Safety Program.

Responsibilities

Works with cattle and bison and attends daily to water, fencing, salt, and mineral.
Organizes and manages ranch inventory.
Maintains preserve infrastructure, including roads, water systems, fences, and other facilities.
Keeps vehicles clean and in good working order.
Carries out vegetation and other ecological monitoring and management activities as directed by the Ranch Manager or Rangeland Specialist.
Will require training to assist with prescribed burns, under the direction of the designated burn boss.
Performs various ranch work as directed by the Ranch Manager or Rangeland Specialist.
Work with outside entities (universities, extension, etc.) to advance management on SVR.
May interact with visitors.
Maintains constructive, positive relationships on behalf of TNC, with staff, neighbors, partners, the community, and visitors to the ranch.
Resolves problems at Ranch Manager or Rangeland Specialist’s direction.