Description

Develop and implement ecological restoration and natural area management plans on lands owned by NLI.  This position is responsible for conducting prescribed burns, invasive species control, and hydrological management; conducting inventories and studies of natural communities and flora and fauna on protected lands; assist with public outreach, education programs, and NLI events; recruit, train, and supervise volunteers; manage leases, grants, CRP practices, and oversee contractors; oversee  conservation easement program; grow the volunteer land management initiatives on lands owned by the NLI; maintain and replace field equipment; plan work schedules and report activities and results; secure permits for prescribed burns; herbicide applications, animal monitoring, seed collection, and restoration projects; provide technical assistance to and partnerships with other land conservation organizations; communicate with neighboring landowners, maintain facilities and carry out other duties as assigned.

Requirements

This is a supervisory position and the candidate must have more than three years of supervisory experience with a demonstrated ability to work well with people, be well organized, listen carefully, communicate clearly, and work independently without direct supervision. The Director of Land Stewardship supervises the Field Biologist (currently vacant) and Natural Resources Technician (both full-time positions), volunteers and interns and is responsible for hiring and grant writing. This candidate must have sound up-to-date knowledge of and experience with Midwestern ecosystems and natural resource management, wild land ecology, invasive species control methods, native plants and animals of northern Illinois, and safely using and maintaining farm equipment and power tools. Training or certification in prescribed burn management including (S-130, S-190, and I-100) and Illinois State Pesticide Applicator’s license is required as well as the ability to perform physical labor outdoors in all weather conditions including the ability to lift 50 pounds.  Possession of (or ability to obtain) Illinois Prescribed Burn Manger Certificate is highly preferred. Proficient in ArcGIS, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, LANDSCAPE, and ability to create maps and organize metadata.