Restoration Technician

Posted: August 19, 2024

The Land Conservancy of McHenry County (TLC) is a nonprofit conservation land trust that has worked with individuals and communities throughout McHenry County since 1991 to preserve over 3,200 acres of natural, agricultural and scenic land resources. In addition to conducting management on the approximately 950 acres that TLC owns, the organization also manages various public natural areas in Woodstock through a contractual agreement. TLC owns and manages three dedicated Illinois Nature Preserves that represent some of the rarest natural habitats in the state: Boloria Meadows, Irish Oaks Savanna and Yonder Prairie.

Anticipated Start Date: 1 – 2 weeks post successful job offer.

End Date: 18 months from start date, the position may be extended pending funding and job performance.

Overview:  We are seeking a dedicated and passionate Restoration Technician to join our team, specializing in the restoration and conservation of prairie, woodland, and wetland habitats. The incumbent will conduct habitat management work on TLC fee owned properties and may also work on other private and publicly held lands.  This position is also responsible for operation and basic maintenance of equipment.  This is a 2-year full-time employee of The Land Conservancy of McHenry County and will receive daily leadership from the Restoration Ecologist and/or TLC staff. This position will be located in McHenry County Illinois. TLC is willing to train the right candidate, so please apply if you are interested in developing the skills and experience listed.

Duties and Expectations: The Restoration Technician will assist with the implementation of wildlife management plans. Major responsibilities include:

• Implementing habitat management work on TLC owned properties, private lands, and public natural areas as directed.
• Contributing to data collection for scientific field studies and surveys;
• Performs other related duties as assigned.
• Adhere to safety protocols and regulations, including the proper use and maintenance of equipment and personal protective gear.
• Collaborate effectively with restoration team members, volunteers, and other stakeholders to ensure efficient project implementation and meet established goals.

Required Knowledge Skills and Abilities:

• A minimum of a high school degree, and
• Ability to work independently with little supervision
• Ability to adapt to changing project priorities, work schedules, and environments.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a team environment, as well as independently when necessary
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, perform physically demanding tasks, and lift/move heavy objects when required
• Good verbal/written communication and organizational skills
• Valid driver’s license required

Desired Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Chemical Applicators license
• Ability to operate, maintain, and transport (trailering and securing) farming equipment (tractor, planter, mower)
• Experience and knowledge of general farm equipment maintenance, repair, and welding fabrication
• Knowledge of wildlife ecology, forestry, wetland and grassland management including the ability to utilize various habitat management equipment and tools in the development of natural habitat;
• Prescribed fire, S/130 and S/190, certificate
• A 2 yr. Associates degree or equivalent work experience in a natural resources field, such as, forestry, wildlife biology, fisheries, ecology, or a related field. A basic understanding of environmental, agricultural and/or natural resource science

This is a full-time position eligible for benefits following an initial 60-day probationary period. Benefits include: employer sponsored health insurance, dental insurance, Simple IRA plan, 3-weeks paid-time-off each year and 11 paid holidays. Employee housing available to the right candidate.

Join our team and make a meaningful contribution to the conservation and restoration of prairie, woodland, and wetland habitats, fostering the biodiversity and ecological health of these valuable ecosystems.

Starting Pay $18-$20/hour depending upon qualifications and experience.

TLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.