POSITION SUMMARY
The Parkland Steward works with the other Parkland Stewards and seasonal staff to
further the mission of the Grand Traverse Conservation District (GTCD) by supporting
the activities of the Conservation Team, led by the Conservation Team Coordinator.
Primary responsibilities upkeep of the Boardman River Nature Center grounds
(including snow removal), tool and equipment maintenance, trail and trailhead
maintenance, hands-on construction projects, habitat improvement projects, and
river stewardship projects.
RELATIONSHIPS
Reports to: Conservation Team Coordinator
Works with: Conservation Team, other GTCD staff, and volunteers
External Stakeholders: parkland visitors, landowners, work crews, partner
organizations, Nature Center visitors, and Nature Center program participants
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Assists with snow removal around the Nature Center & Great Lakes Incubator
Farm (GLIF) buildings during winter months
- Assists with the maintenance, repair, and service of GTCD-owned equipment
and vehicles on a routine basis
- Assists with the monitoring and maintenance of GTCD-managed parklands to
ensure they offer safe and enjoyable recreational experiences for users
- Aid in the restoration of terrestrial and riparian habitat within the Boardman
River Watershed
- Assists with securing materials, labor, and contractors as necessary for each
project
- Assists in leading volunteers, service organizations, and school groups in field
work related to parkland management
- Assists with GTCD programs and special events, including volunteer
workbees, native plant and seedling sales, and educational outreach
opportunities
STANDARDS OF PERFORMANCE
Success is measured by the degree to which the individual:
- Is punctual and prepared to work
- Creates and maintains a safe work environment including the regular use of
personal protection equipment (PPE)
- Completes work in a timely and quality fashion
- Exhibits ability to work well with others
- Always represents the GTCD in a positive and professional manner
WORKING CONDITIONS
GTCD’s offices are located at the Boardman River Nature Center in Traverse City, MI.
The Parkland Steward will frequently be in the field, which may involve traversing
uneven, boggy, and submerged terrain in wide ranges of air temperatures and
weather conditions and may require lifting equipment and materials of up to 80
pounds. The Parkland Steward may frequently be in the vicinity of crews using tools
and power equipment and will be involved in doing so her/himself.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE
Related Work Experience – Preference given to those with:
- Experience working for a Michigan Conservation District
- Similar parkland management experience
- Proficient in the operation of power equipment such as lawn mowers, brush
hogs, weed whips, chainsaws, leaf blowers, etc
- Proficient with hand tools and construction equipment such as power saws,
drills, generators, etc
- Familiar with natural ecosystem processes and plant species identification
- Advanced computer experience in Microsoft programs & GIS.
Skills
- Strong organizational skills
- Strong team-player
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills in the English language
- Exhibits excellent social and interpersonal skills; relates effectively to diverse
clientele and partners
- Must be able to work efficiently outdoors in varying conditions and terrain
- Competent in towing and backing-up a trailer
Other
- Able to work flexible hours when appropriate
- Must maintain a valid driver’s license
- Must be at least 18 years of age
COMPENSATION
- The Parkland Steward position is a full time, 40 hours/week, FLSA exempt
position. Salary: $36,668/year, commensurate with experience. Benefits include
paid holidays, 18 paid days off per year, retirement, and the Conservation
District’s group health insurance package including dental and vision
PREFERRED START DATE: May 09, 2022
TO APPLY
Please email completed GTCD application, resume, and cover letter stating your
suitability for the position based on required knowledge and skills to the
Conservation Team Coordinator Steve Largent, slargent@gtcd.org. No calls please.
The application can be found on the GTCD website at
www.natureiscalling.org/about/employment.
The Grand Traverse Conservation District is an equal opportunity employer and will not
discriminate in employment, promotions, or compensation on the basis of race, sex, color,
religion, national origin or ancestry, age, marital status, disability status, protected veteran
status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected
by federal, state or local laws