| Description |
 | OFFICE LOCATION | | Positions recently vacated or will be vacated, thus reason for reposting
Agassiz Beach Ridges office (aka Northern Tallgrass Prairie Ecoregion office); Glyndon, MN
(1 position)
Start/End Dates: Sept. 28 to Nov. 6, 2009
Tallgrass Aspen Parklands office; Karlstad, MN (1 position)
Start/End Dates: Sept. 7or 14 to Nov. 6, 2009 | | ABOUT US | | The Nature Conservancy is the world’s leading conservation organization, working in all 50 states and more than 33 countries. Founded in 1951, the mission of The Nature Conservancy is to preserve the plants, animals and natural communities that represent the diversity of life on Earth by protecting the lands and waters they need to survive. | | POSITION SUMMARY | | These positions were recently or will be vacated soon, thus the reason for the reposting.
The Preserve Management Assistant will travel within one of two landscapes (Agassiz Beach Ridges or Tallgrass Aspen Parklands) landscape in the Northern Tallgrass Prairie Ecoregion (western Minnesota) as part of a landscape-based spring and fall prescribed burn crew as well as part of a multi-person crew managing nature preserves during the summer months. Another crew will be based at the Glacial Ridge office near Mentor, MN.
As part of the prescribed burn crew, the Preserve Management Assistant will be responsible for preparation and implementation of prescribed fire at various nature preserves under the direction of a Prescribed Burn Leader. The Preserve Management Assistant must use safety equipment and maintain a safety-conscious attitude at all times. Tasks include assisting with preserve management activities such as prescribed burning, applying herbicides, clearing and mowing firebreaks, boundary posting, repairing and organizing burn equipment, tree and brush cutting, fence construction/removal, constructing parking areas, maintaining vehicles and equipment, meeting with local landowners, identifying management needs for preserves, assisting with field trips, leading volunteers, and other land management tasks as necessary. This position requires irregular hours and travel on short notice. Housing facilities will be provided for the full term of employment and groceries will be provided during the work schedule. Transportation from The Nature Conservancy office to the various preserves will be provided by The Nature Conservancy. These are seasonal positions (see above for work dates). | | ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS | | 1. High school diploma and 1 year training in science-related field or related experience in land management.
2. Prescribed and/or wildland fire experience preferred, but not mandatory. Qualified as or able to meet qualifications for FFT2, including Introduction to ICS (I-100), Human Factors on the Fireline (L-180), Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior (S-190), Firefighting Training (S-130), and one training burn serving under the supervision of a qualified FFT2. Candidates lacking elements of this training may be considered and training opportunities afforded if selected for one of the crews.
3. Ability to pass US Forest Service work capacity test at arduous level (3 mile walk with 45 lb pack in 45 minutes)
4. Technicians will be required to attend and pass TNC sponsored fire and equipment training during the first full week of employment. Training time is paid at normal salary rate.
5. Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems. Ability to recognize plant and animal species as required to complete preserve management activities. 3. Restricted use herbicide application license (or willingness to obtain) and application experience.
6. Mechanical aptitude and knowledge of ATV’s, 4-wheel drive, manual transmission vehicles and farm machinery and chainsaws, and experience in general maintenance of equipment.
7. Ability to work cooperatively with a wide variety of people in stressful conditions and maintain a positive attitude, follow assignments closely and work independently of supervisor.
8. Strong communication skills including interpersonal communication and writing.
9. Training in biology or other experience in land management, farm or ranch background preferred.
10. Ability to keep organized and accurate records and work efficiently without supervision.
11. Innovative and creative problem solving skills when working independently.
12. Ability to perform hard physical work for extended and irregular periods, under adverse conditions and in all extremes of weather.
13. Ability to travel across Canadian border (Karlstad crew). | | BASIC QUALIFICATIONS | | • High school diploma and 1 year training in science-related field or related experience in land management.
• Qualified as or able to meet qualifications for Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2).
• Experience recognizing plant and animal species.
• Experience performing physical work.
• Valid driver’s license and good driving record. | | ADDITIONAL JOB INFORMATION | | This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with the Conservancy's Auto Safety Program. Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers." Please see further details in the Auto Safety Program document available at www.nature.org/careers.
Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record. | | BENEFITS | | The Nature Conservancy offers competitive compensation, excellent benefits, flexible work policies and a collaborative work environment. We also provide professional development opportunities and promote from within. As a result, you will find a culture that supports and inspires conservation achievement and personal development, both within the workplace and beyond. | | SALARY INFORMATION | | $9.00-$12.00 per hour plus housing for duration of employment & food during the work hours/week |
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