Position Summary:

Redstart seeks candidates that have strong restoration, invasive species management, and forestry interests, and who wish to develop their skills, work hard, and be part of a diverse, flexible team. We find that we are most fulfilled when the work varies, which happens naturally with each season as we engage in diverse restoration, conservation, and forest management work in Vermont and New Hampshire. The work is predominantly crew work, with groups of 3-6 being typical, while there is some solo work. 

During the winter months, projects include forest stand improvement using a chainsaw (chainsaw training provided), apple tree pruning, upland stream restoration, forest inventory and forest management plan development, carbon inventory, harvest tree marking, and boundary line painting.

In the spring, crews focus on native tree plantings along rivers and streams, and the management of Redstart's new restoration nursery. Technicians will be trained on proper tree and shrub care, planting, identification, and post-planting stewardship. 

During the summer and through mid fall, the primary responsibility is to conduct habitat restoration by treating non-native, terrestrial invasive plants. Technicians must be able to successfully identify and treat common non-native, terrestrial invasive plants (training provided). Treatments commonly consist of herbicide application (including foliar backpack spraying and cut stump treatments), though some manual treatment methods (pulling, mowing) are also used.

In the fall, upland stream restoration becomes more prevalent, where woody material is added to the stream to create better aquatic habitat and to address flooding concerns, increase resilience, and improve water quality.

Throughout the seasons Redstart engages in traditional small landowner non-industrial forestry work including inventory, planning, and harvest oversight.

In each season, Redstart keeps the work diverse so that technicians are always learning and growing their capabilities and careers; the summer and fall season will include some elements of the winter and spring work to accomplish these goals. Technicians will be working on privately-owned properties, as well as lands owned and managed by state or federal agencies, towns, and non-profit organizations. 

Additional opportunities are available to those interested in sheep farming, and Christmas tree growing. Please inquire for further details. 

Desired Qualifications:

• A degree (completed or planned) and/or strong interest in the natural sciences including natural resources management, environmental science, forestry, or related area.
• Strong work ethic and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a crew.
• Strong interest in outdoor physical labor.
• Prior knowledge/identification skills of non-native plants - some on site learning is expected.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable means of transportation.
• Basic GIS and GPS skills.
• Willingness to become a certified pesticide applicator in the State of Vermont and New Hampshire.
• Chainsaw safety (Game of Logging levels 1-2 preferred) and/or prior experience using a chainsaw.

Terms of Employment:

• Full-time seasonal, approximately 40 hours/week, with an opportunity for some overtime.
• Positions typically start at the beginning of April, but we have available work right away. The duration of the positions is variable, flexible, and can be discussed at the time of interview. It may be a year-around or seasonal position. 
• Compensation commensurate with experience, with advancement based on performance. Starting Rate: $16-18 per hour, with advancement to be expected.
• Basic, affordable housing options are available (room in shared housing).

See our web site at: https://redstartconsulting.com/