Founded in 1951, the Nature Conservancy is a global conservation organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends. Guided by science, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that nature and people can thrive together. We are tackling climate change, conserving lands, waters and oceans at unprecedented scale, providing food and water sustainably and helping make cities more sustainable.  One of our core values is our commitment to diversity. Therefore, we strive for a globally diverse and culturally competent workforce. Working in 79 countries, including all 50 United States, we use a collaborative approach that engages local communities, governments, the private sector, and other partners. To learn more, visit www.nature.org or follow @nature_press on Twitter.

The Nature Conservancy offers competitive compensation, 401k or savings-plan matching for eligible employees, excellent benefits, flexible work policies and a collaborative work environment. We also provide professional development opportunities and promote from within. As a result, you will find a culture that supports and inspires conservation achievement and personal development, both within the workplace and beyond.

The Restoration Associate Crew Member performs and participates in preserve operations, maintenance and management. The crew member will be part of a restoration crew (1 crew leader & 3 members) that travels across Michigan conducting maintenance, restoration, management, and monitoring of Conservancy preserves and partners lands. The Nature Conservancy in Michigan owns and manages more than 30 preserves encompassing more than 55,000 acres.

The Restoration Associate Crew Member helps maintain preserves in areas that are remote and off limits to the public or preserves that are frequented by the visiting public and performs land management activities.  S/he manages natural resources, removes invasive/exotic species using mechanical and/or chemical methods, and conducts species monitoring.  S/he may assist in prescribed burns and operate/maintain tools and equipment. S/he will use GPS and geographic information systems (GIS) to identify, record and map non-native, invasive species. The applicant will use and maintain equipment, power tools, vehicles, trailers and GPS units. The successful applicant will be able to navigate natural areas with map and compass.  The Restoration Associate crew member will maintain preserve records using a database on a Windows PC.

This position requires frequent travel throughout Michigan. Travel accommodations will be provided by The Nature Conservancy. Due to current Michigan state orders and TNC guidelines concerning COVID-19, housing may be offered but guidelines must be followed in order to utilize TNC housing. When traveling to maintain preserves in the upper peninsula s/he may be required to camp during the work week. This is a full time, temporary position starting as soon as possible with a duration of 12 months.

• Supervises no staff, but may help plan and direct preserve work groups, including staff or volunteers.
• Works in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.
• Capable of identifying native and non-native plant species, including winter twig ID, and animal species to complete preserve management activities.
• Requires considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain.
• Requires long hours in isolated settings, working closely with coworkers.
• Requires use and maintenance of restoration equipment daily (e.g.; brush cutter, herbicide sprayers, lawn mower, chainsaw, tractor, trailer, two-way radio, etc.).
• Makes day to day decisions as delegated by supervisor.
• May work under infrequent supervision.

• High school diploma and 1 year’s training in science-related field or related experience in land management.
• Experience recognizing native/non-native plant and animal species.
• Experience operating and maintaining various types of equipment.
• Experience working on a team.
• Experience performing physical work.
• Experience using herbicides for land management activities.
• Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, herbicide application, and driver’s license).

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 1-2 years’ experience in natural science related field or related experience in land management.
• Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems.
• Ability to recognize native and non-native plants and animal species to complete preserve management activities.
• Ability to operate and maintain various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g.; brush cutter, herbicide sprayers, lawn mower, chainsaw, tractor, trailer, two-way radio, etc.).
• Ability to follow instructions from supervisor and colleagues and work cooperatively with others.
• Ability to communicate clearly via written, spoken in English.
• Ability to perform physical work, often under adverse weather conditions for long periods of time.
• NWCG Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2) qualified or ability to pass fire training courses and fitness test.  Must provide copy of certificate indicating completion of S-130, S-190 and IS-700 if currently qualified.
• Experience with ARC GIS and GPS units.
• Experience using computers with Microsoft Office Suite and database systems for maintaining accurate daily work logs, herbicide treatments and other monitoring data.
• Capable of sharing living space and lodging with coworkers.

This position requires a valid driver’s license and compliance with the Conservancy’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.” Please see further details in the Auto Safety Program document available at www.nature.org/careers.

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.