Field Technician I

The Institute for Regional Conservation (IRC) seeks an experienced field technician for its Pine Rockland Initiative, which aims to restore the integrity and extent of the globally imperiled pine rockland ecosystem, home to two dozen federally listed plants and animals. This is a critical, exciting time for pine rockland restoration in Miami-Dade and Monroe counties, Florida, which will influence the next decade of restoration. With support from the US Fish and Wildlife Service and the collaboration of partners like the Miami-Dade County Environmentally Endangered Lands Program and Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden, team members will help restore pine rockland fragments through invasive plant treatment, hardwood reduction, direct seeding and outplanting, and other restoration activities, developing new techniques and approaches on a continuous basis. This is important work that is key to the survival of the remaining 2% of pine rockland habitat found outside of Everglades National Park.

An ideal candidate would be practiced in the safe use and handling of herbicide, operation of machinery such as chainsaws and brushcutters, and have working knowledge of South Florida plants (native and nonnative). Must be able to lift and carry 50 pounds. An herbicide license is preferred but not required as we can help you obtain one. Our team members receive in depth training on restoration techniques and come away with an advanced knowledge of native and nonnative plant species. The Team is led and supported by IRC Executive Director, George Gann, who has over 40 years of restoration and conservation experience, both as a practitioner and a global leader in the development of ecological restoration policy and guidance.

Other job duties may include data entry and weekend outreach events, and potentially assisting in prescribed burns. Must be okay working in south Florida climate (hot and humid) and able to lift 50 lbs. Other job duties may include data entry and weekend outreach events.

This position has the potential to advance up to crew leader as candidate achieves milestones such as obtaining an herbicide license or obtaining CERPIT certification through the Society for Ecological Restoration. Starting pay rate is $18/hour, negotiable based on experience.

More About: The Institute for Regional Conservation:

A private non-profit organization, The Institute for Regional Conservation (IRC) is dedicated to the protection, restoration, and long-term management of biodiversity on a regional basis, and to the prevention of local extinctions of rare plants, animals and ecosystems. Based in Florida, USA, IRC works on conservation research and action throughout South Florida, the Caribbean and beyond. Since 1984, its work is premised on an innovative idea of conservation that seeks to protect and restore viable populations of all plant and animal species within a region, rather than simply focusing on charismatic animals or plants with narrow global ranges. For more information visit www.regionalconservation.org.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: From $18.00 per hour

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Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shifts
• Monday to Friday

Education:

• Bachelor’s (Preferred)

Experience:

• No degree required but some experience with basic landscaping equipment and/or hard labor experience
• Operation of machinery such as chainsaws and brushcutters
• Working knowledge of South Florida Plants (native and nonnative)
• Invasive plant management and/or herbicide: 2 years (Preferred, not required)

Work Location: Multiple Locations