Summary: Under general direction of the Natural Resources Manager, performs a wide variety of assigned and self-initiated tasks and projects designed to improve the ecological health of Conservation District lands. Land management categories include invasive species management, natural area restoration, and monitoring biodiversity. Work involves participating in natural resource activities requiring the coordination of work between personnel, departments, volunteers, consultants and contractors.

Duties: Under direction of the Natural Resources Manager, performs a wide variety of assigned and self-initiated tasks and projects designed to improve the ecological health of Conservation District lands.  Work involves participating in natural resources activities requiring the coordination of work between personnel, departments, volunteers, consultants, and contractors.

Qualifications: Four year degree, or equivalent, with major courses in Natural Resource Management, Restoration, Ecology, Biological Sciences or related field and two years of experience in natural resource work.  Knowledge and experience working with the principles, practices, and techniques of natural resource management as applied to Illinois ecosystems.  Experience in safe operation and maintenance of chainsaws and other power equipment, vehicles, and tractors is a must.  Must have a valid Illinois Driver’s License (CDL Class A) or ability to obtain within 12 months of employment.  Candidates must have or be able to obtain within 12 months of hire: a current Illinois Pesticide Operator’s License.  Candidates must have or be able to obtain withing 24 months of employment a completed Midwest Ecological Prescription Burn Crew Member Training (or NWCG S130, S190, or equivalent prescribed fire training).  Must have current First Aid and CPR certificates, or the ability to acquire them within 90 days of hire.  Must possess a good driving record, and successfully complete a drug screen and criminal background check.

Essential functions:
Under direction of the Natural Resources Manager:

1. Controls exotic plant species using hand tools, chainsaws, herbicides and prescribed burning.
2. Performs wetland management tasks such as water manipulation and vegetation management.
3. Performs functions such as site preparation, planting and seeding areas for the purpose of natural area restoration.
4. Contacts landowners who appear on the Macon County Big Tree Registry; locates and measures trees to be updated.
5. Collects GPS data and conducts bird and habitat surveys. Monitors biological communities.
6. Assists the Natural Resources Manager with the upland game hunting and deer herd management programs.
7. Operates and maintains a variety of vehicles, equipment and tools after proper instruction and training, including, but not limited to, trucks, tractors, chainsaws, chippers, brush cutters, mowers, sprayers, power tools, and hand tools.
8. Inspects District vehicles, equipment and tools before operating or using for safe working conditions, ensuring that all lubricant and fluid levels are maintained to proper levels.
9. Works with volunteers on restoration projects.
10. Use proper safety procedures and equipment to maintain safe working conditions to ensure employee and public safety. Inform supervisor of any unsafe equipment or conditions.
11. Maintains satisfactory working relationships with District employees and the public.

Marginal Functions:

1. Occasionally, may assist in carpentry, plumbing, electrical and landscaping construction projects.
2. Assists other staff with snow removal duties.
3. Assists with budget preparation and management for natural resources projects.

Psychological Considerations:

1. Must work around general population in public areas and answer their questions or make referrals to the person who can assist them.
2. Must be able to work independently.
3. May supervise volunteers in land management or monitoring activities.

Physiological Considerations:

1. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.
2. Requires a high degree of fine finger and hand dexterity.
3. Good peripheral and color vision and the ability to adjust focus is essential.
4. Requires the ability to stand, walk on uneven surfaces, climb, stoop, kneel and reach.

Environmental Considerations:

1. Exposed to various weather conditions including extreme heat, cold, rain, snow and ice.
2. Exposure to loud noises.
3. Indoor environmental conditions of moderate noise level.
4. Frequent hazardous working conditions in land management work.
5. Exposure to herbicides, pesticides, fertilizers and smoke.

Cognitive Considerations:

1. Must possess good problem-solving ability.
2. Must be able to read and interpret documents and implement procedures contained in them, and relay directions to others.
3. You must use good safety awareness and judgment.
4. May be required to respond to emergencies.
5. Must be able to write routine reports and correspondence and speak effectively before groups.
6. Ability to calculate figures and amounts and apply concepts of geometry and trigonometry.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job.  It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements.