Summer Bat Cave Steward

The Nature Conservancy • Austin, TX

30d • $20 - $22

About The Position

The Summer Bat Cave Steward is a full-time (35/hr week) temporary (12-16 week) position at the Eckert James River Bat Cave Preserve near Mason, TX. The Summer Bat Cave Steward (SBCS) will be responsible for opening the preserve to visitors Thursdays through Sundays in the evening. The SBCS will be responsible for giving interpretive talks and answering questions about the Mexican free-tailed bats while waiting on or watching as the bats emerge from the cave. The SBCS maintains preserve areas frequented by the visiting public and performs light trail maintenance and land management activities. The SBCS performs and participates in preserve operations, maintenance, management, and conducts species monitoring. The SBCS will maintain preserve records using a database, PC, or mobile device. May work in variable weather conditions, at a remote location, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.

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.
• Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, herbicide or pesticide application).
• 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.

Nice To Haves

• Must be comfortable speaking in public.
• Weekend and evening work will be required.
• Ability to give educational talks to a wide variety of kids and adults.
• Experience working with volunteers a plus.
• Light groundskeeping skills.
• Ability to work alone in an isolated setting.
• Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems.
• Ability to obtain driver’s license and maintain a good driving record.
• Ability to follow instructions from colleagues/coworkers/team members.
• PC and/or mobile device familiarity, including database knowledge or understanding.

Responsibilities

• Opening the preserve to visitors Thursdays through Sundays in the evening.
• Giving interpretive talks and answering questions about the Mexican free-tailed bats while waiting on or watching as the bats emerge from the cave.
• Maintaining preserve areas frequented by the visiting public
• Performing light trail maintenance and land management activities.
• Performing and participating in preserve operations, maintenance, management, and conducts species monitoring.
• Maintaining preserve records using a database, PC, or mobile device.

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