Natural Resource Conservation Technician
The Natural Resource Conservation Technician will help coordinate the next phase of Lost River Cave’s 72-acre restoration. Current invasive plant removal and native plant restoration efforts are yielding great results in small areas of the park. This new position will continue to focus on those areas as well as expand the program park wide.
Responsibilities
- Execute Resource Management Plan
- Draft Restoration Plan in coordination with invasive plant removal plan
- Work in variable weather conditions on difficult terrain
- Expect physically demanding work including digging, lifting, and/or carrying a backpack sprayer for long periods of time
- Carry out manual, mechanical, and chemical control methods of invasive plants
- Operate tractor after training is complete
- Coordinate with Maintenance Department on projects
- Maintain existing partnerships and build new relationships with like-mined groups to support invasive plant removal efforts
- Coordinate volunteer invasive plant program and lead work groups consisting of volunteers
- Support fundraising initiatives by participating in events with donors and prospects
- Present occasional programming on invasive species, identification, and best management practices
- Coordinate program budget development
- Maintain accurate, detailed records of work done, results, etc. Prepare reports accordingly.
- Maintain all regulatory record keeping in compliance with the UK Department of Agriculture
- On rainy days, research grant opportunities and write applications for funding
- Participate in other duties as assigned which may include trail work, landscaping, special event support, & other
Requirements/Qualifications
- BA or BS in ecology, natural resource management, or related field
- Knowledge of invasive and native plant species of this region or willingness to gain that knowledge
- Excellent communication skills
- Ability to work primarily independently within the context of a team including an external natural resource consultant
- Ability to do solo work on a daily basis
- Ability to work in variable weather conditions on difficult terrain
- Mechanical skills and ability to use equipment to maintain natural areas
- Willingness to obtain and maintain Herbicide Application Licenses: Category 2 (Forestry), Category 3 (Turf and Ornamental), and Category 6 (Right of Way)
- Willingness to participate in Kentucky Prescribed Fire Council Training
- Experience with project management is a plus
Job Type: Full-time
Reports To: CEO
Pay: Salary – $35,360
Benefits:
- Health Insurance – After 90 days employees may choose to enroll in the Health Insurance Program. The company will pay the monthly premium for the employee and spouse. There is also an option to add family members, at the employee’s expense.
- Dental and Vision Insurance – After 90 days employees may choose to enroll in the Vision and Dental Insurance Program. The company will pay the monthly premium for the employee.
- Retirement – After 12 months employment the employee may choose to enroll in the pre-tax Retirement Plan. The company will match up to 3% of the retirement deferral.
- Vacation – After 90 days the employee is eligible for paid vacation time as follows:
– First year of employment – 40 hours
– Years 2-4 of employment – 80 hours
– Beginning in Year 5 – 120 hours - Paid Holidays – New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
- Sick days – up to 40 hours per year
- Employee gift shop discount
Schedule:
- 40 hrs per week
- Some weekend work required for volunteer events and park special events
To Apply
Complete the on-line application below.
Follow up to confirm submission may be made to Katie at 270-393-0077 or via email