Employment
The Iowa Arboretum & Gardens is a community-supported public garden inspiring curiosity, discovery, and appreciation of the natural landscape. It strives to be a leading botanical, educational, and recreational destination fostering the value and enjoyment of nature.
Natural Resource Technician
Job Description
The Natural Resource Technician is responsible for assisting the Curator of Collections and Grounds and taking leadership in managing 131 acres of the Iowa Arboretum & Garden’s natural resources including woodland, prairie, and the Treehouse Village recreation area. The Natural Resource Technician reports to the Curator of Collections and Grounds. This position is responsible for coordination and supervision of a team of volunteers. Working with the Curator of Collections and Grounds, they will follow the protocols necessary to uphold excellent management of natural resources. This position will also work with senior staff in the development of programs and managing budgets to reach or exceed annual goals. Full-time.
Primary Tasks:
- Serve as the steward of the Treehouse Village recreation area with waste disposal, debris clearing, cleaning surfaces, monitoring for ADA compliance, answering visitor questions
- Care for trails systems including keeping them clear, mowing, rerouting, repair, and replacing signage
- Coordinate and monitor management of existing ecosystems including oak/hickory and maple/linden woodland
- Coordinate and monitor management of prairie restoration(s) and Conservation Reserve Program contracts
- Control non-native species perpetuation and hazardous plant removal
- Develop natural resource documentation including species surveys/catalogs, management strategies, and educational curricula
- Plan and coordinate controlled burns
- Identify and collect native plant germplasm with potential for use in ornamental horticulture
- Assist with special events, snow removal in winter
Education and Experience
- a four-year baccalaureate degree or commensurate experience;
- horticultural/forestry, organizational, fiscal, and managerial experience in a professional setting;
- strong public speaking, communication, and presentation skills;
- supervisory, collaborative and interpersonal skills;
- knowledge in forestry, environmental science, natural resource management, conservation, habitat restoration, and environmental ecology or similar fields;
- experience on heavy equipment, chainsaw training, equipment maintenance experience;
- computer experience to include Database software, Google products, and Microsoft Office;
- a valid driver’s license is required.
*must receive Pesticide Applicator Certification within 60 days of hire, must complete RT-130 and S-190 Wildland Fire Safety Training within 3 months of hire
Pay and Benefits:
- $38k-$40k per year with merit-based salary raises annually, opportunities for advancement
- Flexible schedule, some weekend days required
- Work from home days during off season available (December 1 to March 1)
- 120 hours PTO per year from 0-5 years
- 7 paid national holidays
- Comprehensive health insurance, dental, and vision
- Simple IRA Retirement Plan with up to 3% match by Iowa Arboretum, Inc.
Application instructions
Please apply on indeed: CLICK HERE