Stewardship Field Assistant

Under the direction of our Stewardship Coordinator, Field Assistants will learn and experience active management practices such as invasive species management, prescribed burn management, native plant restoration through planting, and native seed collection. The Meridian Conservation Corps is the Township's volunteer group that assists staff with all stewardship activities through scheduled workdays and events.

Time Period of Position:

• 40 hours/week (this can be adjusted according to class schedules if you are a student)
• Hours will generally be Monday - Friday, with intermittent weekend work required.
• April - November (hours will be reduced to a max of 20 hours per week after August)

Desired Qualifications:

• In possession of, or working toward a degree in Natural Resource Management, Fisheries and Wildlife, Biology, Forestry, or Parks & Recreation Management
• Possession of MDARD Commercial Pesticide Applicator License (not a pre-employment requirement)
• Knowledge of local flora and fauna and basic land management techniques
• Knowledge of common invasive species, and/or experience eradicating and treating invasive species
• Experience working with people and/or volunteers to accomplish a common goal
• Proficiency and confidence during public speaking

DUTIES

The primary responsibility will be to assist the Land Stewardship Coordinator in the implementation of land management and stewardship on Township land. A majority of work will focus on invasive species management and monitoring, as well as "Planting a Native Meridian" (native plant restoration program). The Stewardship Field Assistant will assist with and be responsible for:

1. Restoration projects in priority areas including the following management activities:

• Invasive species treatment and removal (this includes mechanical & chemical management methods)
• Identification & mapping of invasive species populations
• Identification of remnant native plant populations
• Planting native species (we receive anywhere from 800 to 1,000 native transplants each year that will be planted into parks & preserves)
• Seed collection from remnant native plant populations
• Assist with Stewardship Workdays, and other Meridian Conservation Corps programs; guiding volunteers, showing proper tool use and management techniques.
• Help in the creation & update of efficient land management plans for stewardship sites, parks, and preserves.
• Perform general maintenance and cleaning of tools, equipment and work area.
• Attend Land Preservation Advisory Board meetings when deemed necessary.

QUALIFICATIONS

• A passion for the outdoors, conservation and sustainable management of natural resources
• A drive to create stronger connections and sustainability within communities
• A team player who is flexible and can adapt quickly to unexpected situations
• Demonstrates a positive attitude and kindness to others

Work Environment and Physical Demands: The Stewardship Field Assistant will spend 75% of their time in the field, and 25% in the office. This will remain flexible and could change due to adverse and/or unfavorable weather conditions. Outdoor work is a requirement and candidates must be able to traverse rough terrain and navigate dense vegetation in all weather conditions. Applicants must be able to lift 50 pounds without injury and be prepared for physically demanding work. Prior experience with power tools is preferred. Applicant must be willing to use weed whippers, hedge trimmers, pole saws, hand tools (loppers, saws) & apply herbicide.