INHF is seeking a passionate, well-organized land steward for a temporary, hourly position. 

The part-time Loess Hills Field Assistant (LHFA) reports directly to the Loess Hills Land Stewardship Director to carry out and further develop INHF’s protection and stewardship activities within the Loess Hills region. The LHFA will have the opportunity to work individually and as part of a team to care for several properties in western Iowa. You will have the opportunity to work alongside and learn from knowledgeable staff and partners who genuinely care about the lands they steward. The Loess Hills regional base is located near Crescent, Iowa. The LHFA will report to this location on most days.

DUTIES INCLUDE

• Assist with all aspects of natural lands stewardship on remnant and reconstructed prairie, oak savanna and woodlands, including implementation of prescribed fire, invasive plant management, herbicide application, prairie and woodland restoration, prairie seeding and seed collection, handling and storage
• Assist in the maintenance and repair of stewardship equipment, including but not limited to chainsaws, brush cutters, trailers, UTVs, tractors, mowers and other small engines
• Provide guidance and assist the Loess Hills land stewardship interns (3 interns during summer months)
• Work alongside and assist in the leadership of Conservation Corps of Minnesota & Iowa (CCMI) crew members on permanently protected lands owned by INHF
• Complete annual site inspections and stewardship project reporting of INHF-owned properties

EDUCATION AND SKILLS

• Baccalaureate or associate degree in natural resource management, animal ecology, wildlife biology, botany, forestry, environmental sciences or a related field is preferred but not required
• Knowledge and field experience with natural lands restoration and stewardship
• Experience in the identification of native and non-native flora and fauna of Iowa
• Experience operating and maintaining power equipment including chainsaws, brush cutters, UTVs, small tractors and mowers
• Experience safely using herbicides and application equipment
• Experience with prescribed fire (S130/S190 certification preferred)
• Ability to work long hours in adverse weather conditions and difficult terrain
• Well-developed interpersonal communication skills and ability to consistently and effectively communicate with supervisor
• Ability to work with a broad range of people with different skillsets, backgrounds and personalities

In addition to the above list of required/preferred education and skills, the LHFA must have a valid driver’s license and personal vehicle that can be used for occasionally traveling to work sites. The LHFA must also have the ability and flexibility to travel throughout western Iowa on short notice. Most travel will occur within 1.5 hours of the regional base, however there will be times when further travel is necessary. Occasional travel to other INHF land stewardship regions across the state may be necessary.  Overnight stays will occasionally be necessary. Formal educational opportunities (conferences, trainings, etc.) may be possible.   

The LHFA participates in other projects and programs of INHF as directed by the President, Senior Land Stewardship Director and/or the Loess Hills Land Stewardship Director and always represents INHF in a positive, courteous and professional manner.

COMPENSATION AND WORK DATES

• $17.50/hour (non-exempt)
• Approx. 24-32 hours/week
• Term of employment not to exceed 1,040 hours or November 31, 2026, whichever comes first
• Flexibility with work hours and days depending on individual schedules and INHF needs
• Mileage paid for work related travel if INHF vehicle is not available.
• No benefits associated with this position
• Anticipated Start Date – March 9, 2026
• Approximate End Date – November 20, 2026