Seasonal Conservation Steward- Shelter Island

Who We Are:

The Nature Conservancy’s mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. We’re rooted in our Mission and guided by our Values, which includes a Commitment to Diversity and Respect for People, Communities, and Cultures. Whether it’s career development, flexible schedules, or a rewarding mission, there’s lots of reasons to love life #insideTNC. Want a better insight to TNC? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube  or on Glassdoor.  

Our goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that all our colleagues around the globe feel a sense of belonging, and that their unique contributions to our mission are valued. We know we’ll only achieve our Mission by hiring and engaging a diverse workforce that reflects the communities in which we work. In addition to the requirements in our postings, we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job. Diversity of experience and skills combined with passion is a key to innovation and a culture of inclusion! Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote myriad TNC staff members, “you’ll join for our mission, and you’ll stay for our people.”

What We Can Achieve Together:Working with the Conservancy’s conservation teams at the global and local levels will provide the selected candidate with the opportunity to broaden their knowledge of worldwide conservation issues and strategies for addressing threats to biodiversity.  The Conservation Steward will be exposed to, and participate in, a broad range of educational opportunities, such as preserve stewardship, applied conservation, and outreach.  The anticipated duration of this position is approximately 5 months; shared housing accommodations may be available.We’re Looking for You:

Stewardship: Assist other team members with various aspects of preserve stewardship and facilities maintenance. Tasks may include trail management and maintenance, routine mowing of trails and grounds, event preparation/clean-up, invasive species removal and trash removal/recycling. Duties will require physical labor and the safe operation of hand tools and power equipment.

Applied Conservation: Assist other team members with a variety of conservation projects related to habitat management, wildlife monitoring, and research. Tasks may include wildlife and vegetation surveys, data entry and analysis, and written reports. Duties will require long hours in the field and/or office.

Outreach: Assist with conservation outreach and education programs offered at Mashomack Preserve. Tasks may include assisting with community science programs, teaching children during environmental education programs, and sharing conservation messages with preserve visitors.

What You’ll Bring:

• High school diploma or GED and 1 year of related experience or equivalent combination.
• Experience performing physically demanding work or activities and the ability to lift at least 50lbs.
• Experience operating various types of tools and equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. Landscaping tools, woodworking tools, cordless drill/driver, leaf blower, string trimmer, lawn mower, chainsaw, etc).

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
• Experience or degree in environmental education or related field preferred.
• Knowledge of, or a demonstrated interest in, ecology and conservation biology.
• Experience collecting spatial and biological data in the field.
• Experience using ArcGIS and/or R statistical software.
• Working knowledge of lawn mowers, weed whackers, and other landscaping tools.
• Experience operating small watercraft (kayak, canoe, etc.)
• Must have a valid drivers’ license
• Experience driving automatic and manual pick-up trucks or off-road vehicles.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team environment cooperatively with a variety of volunteers and employees.
• Strong written and oral communication skills. Excellent organizational skills.  Ability to manage several projects simultaneously.