The Markham Stewardship Technician will work together as part of a team to manage and restore tallgrass prairie at the Markham Shkode Prairies. The work includes invasive weed management using backpack herbicide sprayers and hand tools, harvesting and processing native seed, and leading public programming to connect people to nature such as bird watching or wildflower walks.

This is a short-term, full-time (35 hours/week), field position based at our Markham Shkode Prairies preserve in Markham, Illinois lasting approximately 5 months starting in May. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The Markham Stewardship Technician maintains preserve areas frequented by the visiting public and removes invasive species.  The Technician maintains tools and equipment and may open and close preserve(s) to the visiting public. The Technician will also assist with outreach events for visitors and volunteers coordinating with staff and program partners to improve the volunteer and community experience.

RESPONSIBILITIES & SCOPE

• May interact with visitors and volunteers
• Works under close or infrequent supervision.
• May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations for long periods of time in isolated settings, on difficult and hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.
• Requires considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or GED and 6 months of related experience
• Experience operating various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. lawn mower, chainsaw, UTV, ATV or OHV, two-way radio, or similar equipment).
• Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. Moderate pack walk test of 24 pounds for two miles under 30 minutes, First Aid, CPR, herbicide application).

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Course work in ecology or experience with natural areas restoration.
• Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
• Ability to follow instructions from colleagues/coworkers/team members.
• Ability to work in a team environment.

Auto Safety Policy:

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." To learn more about the Auto Safety Program, visit https://www.nature.org/en-us/about- us/careers/recruitment/ under the FAQ section.

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.

Salary Information:

The pay for a candidate selected for this position is generally $19.50 an hour (subject to required tax withholdings). This rate only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate’s actual pay will fall will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate's location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market, and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.