Nature Preserve Steward

Terms of Position:

This position is considered an intermittent position. It is limited to no more than 11 consecutive months and no more than 180 days per term. However, the terms are renewable following a minimum 30-day separation in employment.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Nature Preserve Stewards assist the Regional Ecologist fulfill the mission of the Division of Nature Preserves by executing ecological habitat restoration and maintenance work on state dedicated nature preserves and other natural areas of significance. This position involves almost exclusively outdoor work in remote preserves throughout the Grand Calumet Region which is centered primarily in Gary, Hammond, and East Chicago where there are remnants of globally imperiled dune and swale habitat, as well as remediated wetlands along the Grand Calumet River. Nature Preserve Stewards in the Grand Calumet Region work very closely with field staff from partner organizations and agencies on shared natural resource management goals. The work consists primarily of the selective chemical and/or mechanical control of invasive plant species which threaten our native habitats. This requires the knowledge or ability to learn to distinguish invasive plants from the wide diversity of co-occurring native plants. During the dormant season, Nature Preserve Stewards also assist on the preparation for prescribed burns and may have the opportunity to assist on prescribed burns, conditions permitting. Year-round there are other tasks to be performed as needed including trash abatement, property boundary signage, nature preserve inspections, and assistance with biological inventories or monitoring efforts.

Qualifications:

Candidates shall have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED or one (1) year of work experience. A valid driver’s license is required.

Preferred Qualifications – Completion of some college coursework in wildlife management, natural resources, biology, ecology, forestry and/or related areas of study, or related experience. Ability to understand and apply (through on the job training and using previous, relevant experience) basic biological principals, plant identification, herbicide application, invasive plant life histories and management techniques, and the ecological management of forests, wetlands, and prairie habitats. Ability to lift equipment, tools, or materials up to 50lbs. Ability to sustain periods of strenuous physical activity in adverse field conditions. Ability to work cooperatively with diverse team members.