Land Stewardship Associate

The Land Stewardship Associate position is part of GSA’s Green Pathways Stewardship program, offering internships, apprenticeships, and on-ramps for green job sector workforce development. Under the direction of the Land Conservation and Stewardship Director, the Stewardship Associate provides in-the-field support to the Land Conservation and Stewardship Department.  Primary responsibilities are to provide support to the Stewardship Coordinator in annual monitoring surveys on GSA held conservation easements and fee simple properties, and assist in stewardship activities guided by conservation plans, both of which are integral to adherence to standards that maintain GSA’s accreditation by the Land Trust Accreditation Commission. Successful participation in activities will require adept time management, comfort with outdoor labor, and collaboration with a diversity of community volunteer groups as part of the GSA network. Activities will also support GSA’s vision to provide opportunities for in-the-field educational opportunities for student work groups; and offers opportunities for building experience in cultivating community networks around engagement in nature-based activities.

Responsibilities 

Under direction of the Land Conservation and Stewardship Director and in collaboration with the Land Stewardship Coordinator: 

• Assists monitoring select GSA conservation easement and fee lands, assessing each property for liabilities, changes, encroachments, and need for stewardship work
• Assists with project activities supporting stewardship of GSA owned properties
• Actively supports stewardship and restoration activities at GSA held conservation easements lands
• Assists in developing educational content at GSA’s Bulverde Oaks Nature Preserve and and supporting other GSA special events related to land conservation activities
• Recruit and organize volunteer support as needed for stewardship workdays
• Conduct and/or participate in field surveys and other activities as needed to support field-based projects on future conservation lands to include identification of important ecological, historical, or social geographies

Required Qualifications

• Completed coursework in natural resource management, environmental science, geography, or agriculture (transcripts requested)
• Desire to learn how to read and interpret maps and surveys
• Desire to learn how to establish and maintain collaborative working relationships
• Physical ability and willingness to work outdoors, in uneven terrains; and ability to lift 25 lbs.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Suite software
• Valid Class “C” driver’s license; access to or ownership of reliable vehicle

Preferred Qualifications

• Beginner skills in ArcGIS software, GPS and map-making
• One year of experience supporting ecological field surveys
• One year of experience assisting and developing educational activities for a variety of populations
• Interest in regional conservation issues and urban green space planning