Kankakee Sands Illinois Restoration Technician

Overview

The Kankakee Sands Restoration Technician will perform as part of our burn crew to implement prescribed fire; transplant native plants; harvest, clean, and process seed; and control invasive species using brush cutters, chainsaws, and herbicide applied from UTVs and backpack sprayers. They will learn how to use GPS and GIS to map applications. They assist with preserve management including upkeep of trails, fencing, signs, and bison viewing area;

and participate in events, interact with visitors, and work with volunteers.

• 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, under physically demanding circumstances, requiring considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain.
• Irregular work hours and long days, particularly during spring and fall fire season.

This is a short-term, full-time (35 hours), field position based at our Kankakee Sands preserve in Illinois and Indiana, with a Field Office in Morocco, Indiana, lasting approximately 6 months starting around May. There are multiple positions available.

The Nature Conservancy in Illinois is looking for a Kankakee Sands Restoration Technician to work with our dedicated team in protecting what is becoming a destination spot for visitors in Indiana. Started over 25 years ago, the Efroymson Restoration at Kankakee Sands has grown to over 8000 acres of prairie, wetland, and savanna habitat. It’s among the largest grassland restorations in the US, part of a larger bi-state conservation area that exceeds 25,000 acres, and home to a bison herd that contribute to the function of the prairie ecosystem.

You’ll assist our staff in maintaining this beautiful landscape and gain some valuable experience while building your skills and knowledge for the next steps in your conservation career!

• 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. First Aid, CPR, herbicide or pesticide application).

• Experience recognizing plant and animal species.
• Meets, or willing and able to obtain, minimum TNC NWCG training for Basic Wildland Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2), including the physical fitness requirements at the arduous level.

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 the Auto Safety information page 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.

The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is $17.00 an hour (subject to required tax withholding). This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate’s actual pay will fall within this range 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.

The Nature Conservancy’s mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. We’re rooted in our mission and guided by our values, which include respect…