Seasonal Stewardship Assistant

Background

Downeast Coastal Conservancy (DCC) is a nationally-accredited land trust conserving land in coastal Washington County, Maine since the 1980s. Based in Machias, DCC is responsible for the stewardship and preservation of 7,500 acres, 72 miles of shoreline, and 30 miles of trails in Downeast Maine. The organization is overseen by a Board of Directors and managed by a staff of 5: Executive Director, Stewardship Director, Land Steward, Outreach Director, and Operations Manager.

With more than 35 years of history, DCC is focused on continuing to evolve. This position will assist existing land management and stewardship programs under the direction of the Stewardship Director.  

Position Type: 20-week Seasonal Position, which reports to the Stewardship Director

Dates: May - September (with flexible start and end dates not exceeding 20 weeks in total)

Rate: $20/hr; 40 hours per week; Some Evening and Weekend Work May Be Required

Location: Machias, Maine (with travel within Washington County)

Position Description

The Stewardship Assistant reports to the Stewardship Director. This position is seasonal (approx. 40 hours/week for 20 weeks). The employee works under the direction of the Stewardship Director in order to effectively assist with the management of DCC’s conservation lands.  

In completing assignments, the Stewardship Assistant may work independently, with the Stewardship Director, Land Steward, other DCC staff, or with volunteers to: carry out seasonal property maintenance including trail maintenance activities such as weed whacking, mowing, and clearing brush, assisting with habitat conservation projects, assisting with invasive species management projects, performing basic carpentry projects, and performing other tasks as requested to support the mission of DCC.

Field work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions and requires climbing, walking, bending, crouching, lifting, reaching, and other physical abilities. Some work is required to be completed in the office, but the vast majority of time will be spent outdoors. At times, the Stewardship Assistant will be required to use a personal vehicle to access the various properties, with DCC paying mileage at the IRS-established rate.

The position requires some knowledge of conservation and a passion for the outdoors. The Stewardship Assistant will be a team player who is an effective communicator and can manage multiple tasks.

Basic Responsibilities

Assist the Stewardship Director and Land Steward with completing conservation related tasks on DCC properties, including but not limited to:

• Trail construction and maintenance
  • Mowing and weed whacking
  • Clearing blowdowns
  • Tread and drainage work
  • Building and repairing kiosks, bog bridging, benches, fences, etc.
  • Working with contracted and volunteer trail crews
  • Occasionally monitor DCC easements and preserves
• Become familiar with all DCC’s properties and how they are managed
• Assist with community volunteer projects
• Carry out basic administrative tasks
• Assist with outreach and event programs when requested

Qualifications - Required

• Background (direct work or school experience) within a conservation related field
• Experience with hand tools and some power tools
• Ability to effectively respond to and carry out conservation-based tasks as assigned
• Ability to hike over rough terrain carrying up to 40 pounds of gear and equipment
• Ability to perform physically demanding work outside for up to 8 hours while tolerating biting insects and ticks in all weather conditions
• Ability to use basic computer software
• Valid vehicle driver's license and personal vehicle with proof of insurance; with the willingness and ability to transport stewardship equipment
• Have personal sturdy boots, outdoor weather gear, and appropriate clothing
• Ability to work with community volunteers and professionally represent DCC
• Ability to communicate clearly, professionally and accurately, both in writing and orally
• Inspired to work outside, desire to learn and apply new skills, and a good sense of humor

Qualifications – Desired

• Bachelor’s Degree (or working towards a degree) in a conservation-related field
• Valid and current First Aid certification
• Experience with trail maintenance and trail building
• Knowledge and ability to perform basic carpentry and construction tasks
• Experience/training with a chainsaw and other power tools
• Experience navigating alone in the woods
• Familiarity with the region and its communities, both on land and water, as well as knowledge of the region’s geography, culture, flora and fauna.