Restoration Technician

Job Description

Who We Are: 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 includes a Commitment to Diversity and Respect for People, Communities, and Cultures. Whether it’s career development, flexible schedules, or a rewarding mission, there’s lots of reasons to love life #insideTNC.
What We Can Achieve Together: The Nature Conservancy in Illinois is seeking summer Technicians across multiple locations to help manage and restore tallgrass prairies, wetlands, woodlands, and more. Some locations may include extension options into the fall. The Technician position provides opportunities to learn about plants and animals and natural areas management with an emphasis on ecological restoration including interesting, educational, and challenging outside work.
We’re Looking For You
• Nachusa ‐ A 4,000-acre preserve home to more than 700 native plant species, 180 species of birds, and a herd of bison near Franklin Grove, IL.
• Illinois River Project ‐ Over 8,000 acres of wetlands, lakes, prairies, and uplands based at Emiquon near Lewistown, IL, and Spunky Bottoms in Brown County, IL.
• Kankakee Sands ‐ A 2,700-acre savanna complex that is home to some of the best examples of rare black oak savannas worldwide, near Momence, IL and Morocco, IN.
• Southern Illinois ‐ Working in the 289,000-acre Shawnee National Forest across forests, grasslands, and wetlands based out of Carterville, IL.

What You’ll Bring
• 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).
Desired Qualifications (vary by location)
• Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
• Ability to follow instructions from colleagues/coworkers/team members.
• Moderate pack walk test of 24 pounds for two miles under 30 minutes.
• Course work in biology, especially field-related subjects such as plant and animal identification and ecology.
What We Bring: Join us outdoors to help protect, restore, and manage vital natural resources in various areas of Illinois. Work may include invasive species control, seed harvesting and planting, trail and preserve maintenance, use and maintenance of field equipment, species monitoring, timber and boundary marking, and assisting with prescribed fires (if qualified). We provide our seasonal staff opportunities to gain valuable experience learning new skills and techniques to help advance their careers in conservation.
Salary Information: The starting pay ranges from $16.00 – $18.00 per 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.
Learn More and Apply Now Visit careers.nature.org/