Natural Resource Plant Technician

ESSENTIAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist the field staff with natural areas management tasks including native seed harvest, plug planting and tree planting.
• Assist the field staff in restoration assessment and planning.
• Assist District staff with plant identification, site mapping, and data collection leading to the preparation of typed summaries, graphed and charts detailing plant community assessments.
• Assist staff with biological research projects such as rare plant monitoring and monitoring reptile populations.
• Work independently on seed collecting and processing.
• Participate in planting and seeding projects.
• Assist the field staff with the control of exotic and invasive species.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Enthusiastic, courteous, positive attitude and team spirit.
• Possess a working knowledge of the flora of northeastern Illinois and familiarity with the characteristics of regional woodland, prairie and wetland communities. Understanding of a broad range of ecological concepts and a willingness to learn in a variety of settings.
• Computer skills – experience with common computer software including Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work outdoors under adverse weather conditions (including exposure to allergens, heat, humidity, biting insects, and poisonous plants).
• Experience with or a willingness to learn safe operation of gas-powered weed whips.
• Possess or be willing to acquire Illinois Pesticide Operator license.
• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Current and valid Illinois driver’s license that is free from suspension or revocation during term of employment; must maintain insurability with the District’s fleet carrier.
• Employment is subject to successful results of a criminal history background investigation and satisfactory completion of a physical and drug screen.